Why self-defence is important for women

Almost every woman has endured sexual and physical harassment on Dhaka's streets. Bangladesh is also experiencing a disturbing rise in sexual crimes: a recent study revealed that 17,000 rape cases have been filed in the last four years in the country. What's more troublesome is the fact that women are often blamed for what they endure, and that law enforcement agencies couldn't care less.

Therefore, it's up to women to fight back. They should learn how to defend themselves. Learning self-defence will boost their confidence and ability to thwart or deter potential attacks. It can also break the deeply entrenched social stereotype that women are weaker than men.

Sumiya Islam

East West University