Bangladesh has made remarkable strides in women`s empowerment, driven by a combination of government policies & activities, NGO initiatives, and the resilience of Bangladeshi women themselves.

However, continued efforts are needed to address remaining challenges and ensure full gender equality, said a press release jointly issued by Bangladesh Poultry Industries Central Council (BPICC) and U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC).

The press release said, there is a complex reality for many women in Bangladesh. While they are indeed making significant contributions to their families and the nation`s economy, they continue to face systemic barriers that limit their full enjoyment of their rights.

Bangladeshi women shoulder a disproportionate burden of unpaid care work, including childcare, elder care and household chores. These works are often invisible and undervalued, yet they are essential for the functioning of families and communities.

While women are vital to sectors like the RMG industry, they often work in precarious conditions with low wages and limited control over their earnings.

Even when women are involved in agricultural work, they frequently lack ownership of the land they cultivate. Patriarchal social norms and discriminatory laws continue to restrict women`s access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making power. Issues like child marriage, dowry-related violence, and limited inheritance rights further undermine women`s autonomy.

BPICC recommended reforming discriminatory laws and ensuring their effective enforcement, promoting gender equality through education and awareness campaigns, providing women with access to education, skills training, and financial resources.

In a message Shamsul Arefin Khaled, president, BPICC praised highly for the success and contribution of women, especially in the society. He said, we have to acknowledge women’s contribution as without them no society can exist. Recognition helps to build confidence and self-esteem, motivates women to continue striving for excellence and to take on new challenges.

He said, growing numbers of women are pursuing higher education. Women are increasingly active in political movements and advocating for their rights. They are actively participating in social movements and challenging traditional gender norms.

A.T.M Mostafa Kamal, secretary, BPICC said, Bangladesh Government has established separate ministry named ‘Ministry of Women and Children Affairs’ and a directorate named ‘Department of Women Affairs’ more than three decades ago for the wellbeing of women in Bangladesh.

Kamal said, Millions of women are working in the ready-made garment industry, which is the dominant force in Bangladesh’s export economy. Increased participation of women in small and medium enterprises (SME`s) including poultry and livestock, helping Bangladesh towards progress. “Women represent 40 percent of the workforce in the poultry sector, making it possible to produce affordable protein for all”, added Kamal.

In a separate message, nutritionist and dietician Israt Jahan said, on Women`s Day, it`s a great time to focus on promoting healthy lifestyles for women. Ensuring adequate protein intake, including sources like egg, milk, meat, fish, soy and other plant proteins like legumes, nuts, seeds, etc. can support women`s overall well-being throughout their lives.

She said, over half of women of reproductive age are not achieving the minimum dietary diversity essential for their health, while a staggering 70 percent of non-pregnant, non-lactating women face multiple micronutrient deficiencies. These alarming statistics highlight a critical issue: the health of women is at stake, with significant consequences that extend to their future children. Insufficient nutrition not only increases the risk of low birth weight and maternal anemia but also contributes to lasting health complications for newborns. It is imperative that we address these deficiencies to ensure a healthier future for both women and children.

Referring to a study conducted by U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), Khabibur Rahman, Team Lead-Bangladesh, USSEC said, myths and misconceptions persist among Bangladeshi consumers despite high-awareness of animal-based sources. Besides, inadequate knowledge of the nutritional values of plant protein sources also exists. Kabibur said,the awareness of protein requirement across the life cycle is poor and a significant gender disparity is noted about protein requirements of pregnant/lactating women. Only half of Bangladeshi citizens are aware that pregnant and lactating women have higher protein requirements.

BPICC sources said, on the occasion of International Women`s Day 2025, it is important to look at both the overarching global themes and the specific needs of women in places like Bangladesh. We have to ensure equal rights, power and opportunities for all, and create a world where no one is left.