News Flash
DHAKA, May 17, 2026 (BSS) - Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Professor Dr Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain today held a meeting with UN Women Deputy Executive Director, Assistant Secretary-General and Representative Nyaradzai Gumbonzvanda at his office here.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Bangladesh and UN Women in women and child rights protection, social safety net programmes and implementation of government development priorities.
The minister said the government is committed to expanding social protection to ensure food security and economic empowerment of women-headed and low-income families.
He highlighted the Family Card programme for supporting vulnerable households.
He also briefed the delegation on Quick Response Teams (QRT) for addressing violence against women and children and said the national helpline 109 remains active 24/7, providing rescue, medical, counselling and legal support.
Dr Zahid added that the government is promoting the care economy, recognising unpaid care work and increasing women's participation in economic activities.
He said legal aid services have been strengthened to ensure access to justice.
Nyaradzai Gumbonzvanda praised Bangladesh's progress in gender equality and women's empowerment and expressed interest in deepening cooperation towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The meeting was also attended by UN Women Regional Director Christine Arab and UN Women Bangladesh Representative Gitanjali Singh.
