We are appalled with a news report published in this newspaper on Friday that the sexual harassment remains a pervasive issue in the country, affecting women and girls in workplaces, educational institutions, public spaces, and online platforms.
Despite existing legal frameworks aimed at combating this problem, the sluggish implementation of these laws has left many loopholes in victim protection and perpetrator accountability.
The news refers to the harrowing account of a female university student from Dhaka, highlights the profound and lasting impact of sexual harassment.
Her experience, which began in childhood, is a stark reminder of the fear and trauma many women endure. We became extremely worried with her decision to carry a small knife for protection that reflects a culture failed to provide safety for its female citizens.
Alarmingly, a 2021 analysis by the Bangladesh Women’s Lawyers’ Association revealed that 84 per cent of women report experiencing sexual harassment.
This statistic is not just a number; it represents the daily reality for countless women navigating a world rife with threats to their dignity.
The recent 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence has brought this issue to the forefront, with initiatives like UN Women’s sports competition aiming to raise awareness and promote safety on university campuses.
However, while these efforts are commendable, they are merely a starting point. The 2009 directive from the Bangladesh High Court, intended to prevent sexual harassment in schools and workplaces, must be reinforced with effective measures to ensure its implementation.
The stigma surrounding victims remains significant barrier to reporting incidents. Many women fear retaliation and societal judgement, which discourages them from coming forward.
This culture of silence must be dismantled. Educational institutions must create safe environments where victims can speak out without fear and where perpetrators are held accountable.
We must admit that the fight against sexual harassment is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue that affects us all.
We urge the authority to take decisive action to protect women and girls, ensuring a future where respect and dignity are the norm. Only then can we hope to eradicate the scourge of sexual harassment in our society.