Oxfam in Bangladesh is deeply concerned by the recent surge in disinformation, misogynistic rhetoric, and public attacks targeting women and feminist voices which are against advancing gender justice in Bangladesh.
What we are witnessing is not a debate—it is a backlash. Derogatory language, public shaming, and threats directed at women and those advocating for their rights go far beyond criticism.
In moments like this, silence is not neutrality; it is a form of complicity. The pain of silence, especially in the face of injustice and rising intolerance, weighs heavily on those whose rights are most at risk. To remain silent is to allow fear and misinformation to shape the future.
We believe in building a society that is inclusive, liberal, and rooted in the values of equality, dignity, and freedom for all. Women deserve the right to participate fully in decision-making processes that shape their lives, families, communities and public policies—without fear, shame, or violence. Feminist principles are rooted in freedom, fairness, and human rights.
The Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees the rights to equality, dignity, freedom of thought, expression, and association. Furthermore, Bangladesh has made global commitments through CEDAW and the SDGs to eliminate discrimination and empower women. These promises cannot be fulfilled if hate speech, misinformation, and intimidation continue unchecked.
We urge all stakeholders to ensure a respectful and fact-based public dialogue, to protect those facing threats, and to reaffirm our collective duty to uphold rights. Women’s rights are not up for negotiation. Liberation must be feminist—or it is not liberation at all.
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