Allocate greater budget for women, children with disabilities
Staff Reporter:
Nari Unnayan Shakti, a prominent women’s rights organization, has called on the government to significantly increase budgetary allocation for women and children with disabilities. The call was made during a workshop held on Thursday morning at the organization’s Banasree office in Dhaka. The event was jointly organized by Nari Unnayan Shakti, Young Women for Development Rights and Climate (YWDRC), and the Forum for Culture and Human Development (FCHD).
The workshop was attended by women and children with disabilities, as well as representatives from various non-governmental organizations and members of civil society. Afroja Parvin, Executive Director of Nari Unnayan Shakti, presented the keynote paper at the event. Discussions were also led by Nusrat Sultana Afroj, President of YWDRC, and Shahida Wahab, President of FCHD.
Participants highlighted the severe inadequacy of current government allowances for people with disabilities. Sukhi, a disabled woman, and Habib, a disabled man, shared their personal experiences, explaining how the limited government support fails to meet even a fraction of their monthly needs. They urged policymakers to take immediate steps to address the long-standing neglect of this marginalized population.
Based on the workshop’s discussions, a 10-point urgent demand was formulated to promote the development, protection, and empowerment of women and children with disabilities. These demands were formally submitted the same day to the Advisor’s Office at the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs.
Key demands include increased budget allocation through a dedicated budget code, strict implementation of existing laws with the formation of special tribunals, and the establishment of rehabilitation centers across districts. The proposal also emphasized the need for accessible infrastructure in public spaces and transport systems, inclusive education at all levels, and targeted sexual and reproductive health services.
Additionally, the organizations recommended involving experienced local NGOs in project implementation and stressed the importance of data-driven planning through collaboration with the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. They also urged the government to invest in community-based awareness programs to combat social stigma, neglect, and violence against disabled women.
Speaking at the event, Afroja Parvin emphasized the need for a four-pillar approach—budget, laws, infrastructure, and awareness—to bring real change. “To improve the lives of women and children with disabilities, we must work collectively across sectors. We hope the government will take immediate and compassionate action,” she said.
