UN Calls for Safe, Inclusive Role of Women in Polls

As Bangladesh prepares to vote in its 13th general election tomorrow, the United Nations has stressed the need to ensure the safe, inclusive and meaningful participation of women in the electoral process.

In a statement issued ahead of polling day, the UN said participation in public life is a fundamental right and essential to a credible and democratic election. It emphasised that all women and girls must be able to take part without fear, including women with disabilities, those from minority communities, and gender-diverse individuals who may face discrimination or heightened risks of violence.

The UN noted concerns raised by women’s groups and civil society organisations over rising incidents of intimidation and harassment targeting female candidates and voters. These include physical threats as well as online abuse such as cyberbullying, deepfakes, coordinated digital harassment and image-based exploitation using AI-generated content.

Reaffirming its long-standing support for women’s leadership and representation, the UN said it has been working with the Election Commission to strengthen women’s participation in the electoral process.

The organisation urged political leaders, parties and their supporters to adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards intimidation, harassment and any form of violence against women during the election.

Expressing confidence in the authorities, the UN said it expects continued efforts to uphold security and the rule of law so that every woman can vote or contest freely, safely and without fear of reprisal.