Access to justice remains key barrier for women

Access to justice for women in Bangladesh remains one of the most critical challenges despite progress in social and economic sectors, speakers at a national seminar said on Tuesday.

They stressed that weak enforcement of laws, prolonged legal procedures and institutional barriers continue to prevent survivors of violence from obtaining justice.

The observations came at a seminar organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) at the Bangladesh Military Museum in the capital, marking International Women’s Day 2026.

Speakers noted that while Bangladesh has enacted several laws to protect women and girls, many victims still face intimidation, social stigma and procedural delays when seeking justice.

Citing findings presented at the event, ShaheenAnam, executive director of MJF, said the conviction rate in rape cases remains below one percent, while nearly one million cases related to violence against women are currently pending in courts.

She said that although women have made notable gains in education, employment and political participation, the justice system continues to fall short in addressing violence against women and girls.

Addressing the programme, Md Asaduzzaman said the government remains committed to protecting human rights and ensuring women’s rights.

He also expressed support for the establishment of a Women’s Commission and said research-based recommendations from civil society organisations could help improve laws related to women’s rights.

The minister also highlighted government initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s role in families and society, including the issuance of family cards in women’s names.

Presenting the keynote, Ruma Sultana said many survivors of violence still encounter humiliation, delays and denial while navigating the justice system.

She noted that police are often reluctant to register cases, while domestic violence continues to be treated as a private family matter in many instances.

Legal experts and rights activists at the seminar said survivors frequently face multiple challenges throughout the legal process.

RekhaSaha said victims and their families often experience intimidation and social pressure to withdraw cases even after perpetrators are punished.

SelinaAkhter from Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) said rape cases require coordination among police, medical authorities, witnesses and families, but survivors are often retraumatized during the legal process.

She added that evidence is sometimes lost early in investigations, while accused persons released on bail may pressure survivors and their families.

Meanwhile, Gitanjali Singh said justice is essential for ensuring women’s rights.

“Without justice, rights remain hollow, but with justice they become a source of power,” she said.

Irene Khan warned that human rights are facing growing threats globally and stressed that laws must protect people rather than deepen discrimination and insecurity.

Participants at the seminar called for stronger institutional coordination, improved witness protection and reforms to discriminatory legal provisions to ensure that women and girls can access justice more effectively.