Protecting women, children: Fulfil your promises fast

International NGOs operating in Bangladesh, including ActionAid, Oxfam, Plan International, and Save the Children, have expressed serious concern over the recent surge in incidents of rape, sexual harassment, and violence against women, girls, and children across the country.

In a joint statement, the organisations have called for urgent action to ensure justice, protection, and the safeguarding of human rights of survivors and their families.

While welcoming the government's recent commitment to a "zero tolerance" policy towards violence against women and children, the organisations have urged the authorities to swiftly fulfil their promises, including completing investigations within 15 days and ensuring that trials are concluded within 90 days of the incident.

The NGOs called for the immediate implementation of these commitments and other relevant policies to combat violence.

These calls came in response to nationwide protests led by women, girls, students, teachers, activists, and rights-based organisations. The international NGOs have expressed solidarity with these demonstrators, who have played a key role in demanding greater accountability and justice.

The statement referenced recent data from Ain o Salish Kendra, which reveals an alarming trend in 2025, with 294 women and children subjected to violence in the first two months of the year, including 96 cases of rape, 44 of which involved minors.

Additionally, there has been a disturbing rise in moral policing, mob violence, and the misinterpretation of 'gender justice'. This growing trend of victim-blaming has discouraged survivors from seeking justice, while further entrenching a culture of violence, the statement added.

In light of these concerning developments, the international NGOs have stressed the need for immediate action. These abuses are directly impacting the communities and individuals these organisations work with and serve. The NGOs said they have come together to amplify their voices, calling for an end to harmful narratives that justify or downplay gender-based violence.

The statement concludes with a firm call for justice.

"Any form of violence, abuse, and harassment against women, girls, and children is a gross violation of human rights," said the organisations.

They also called for safe mobility, civic freedom, and digital safety for women and children, alongside the establishment of a comprehensive child protection mechanism.

The NGOs advocated for the immediate prosecution and exemplary punishment of perpetrators, ensuring that justice is swift and survivor-centred.

Furthermore, they emphasised the need for legal reforms to strengthen protections, eliminate loopholes, and guarantee the safety and dignity of survivors and their families.