Addressing Systemic Inequities in Bangladesh: A Call for Feminist Revolution

The "July Revolution" of 2024 marks a transformative period in Bangladesh, where systemic

change is imperative, particularly in addressing entrenched gender inequalities. This

movement, spearheaded by Gen-Z activists and supported by a diverse array of civilians,

successfully dismantled Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year autocratic regime, resulting in the

establishment of an interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Despite this significant political shift, persistent gender-based challenges—such as violence

against women, educational and employment disparities, the wage gap, political exclusion,

the invisibility of unpaid labor, and a lack of focus on women’s issues—remain deeply

embedded in society.

Women have been pivotal in these struggles, actively participating in protests while

simultaneously facing systemic oppression across multiple domains. This position paper

employs a feminist lens to scrutinize these urgent issues, advocating for comprehensive

reforms that not only address immediate political demands but also confront the root causes

of gender inequities in Bangladesh. The analysis highlights the need for integrated strategies

that empower women, recognize their contributions—both paid and unpaid—and ensure their

rights are central to the nation’s reform agenda. The call for a feminist revolution is not

merely a response to current challenges; it is a necessary evolution toward a more equitable

and just society for all.

Read the full brief here.