Adviser Sharmeen Soneya Murshid today spoke at the inauguration of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2025” national dialogue held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Convention Centre. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Nov 25, 2025 (BSS) - Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen Soneya Murshid today said women remain unsafe in cyberspace and are facing harassment at every step.

"While girls once worried about eve-teasing on the streets, they are now more likely to encounter cyberbullying the moment they enter the digital space," she said.

The adviser made the remarks while formally inaugurating the "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2025" national dialogue at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Convention Centre here today. 

The event was jointly organised by the Local Consultative Group on Women's Advancement and Gender Equality and the United Nations. 

It carried the slogan "Unite to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls."

Cyberbullying has become increasingly widespread, the adviser Murshid noted, adding that it is no longer limited to any neighbourhood boy, as anyone from anywhere in the world can attack a woman's dignity through technology. 

"Technology will continue to move at its own pace, but the mindset of users will ultimately determine its direction," she said.

The adviser said the "16 Days of Activism" serves as a collective daily reminder. 

Citing statistics, she said 59 percent of women internet users in the country face online harassment and 90 percent of victims lodge complaints. 

Although strong laws exist to curb cybercrime, lack of enforcement is emboldening offenders, she added.

She said initiatives have been taken to address these challenges. 

Preventing cyber violence is not the responsibility of any single ministry or institution but requires coordinated efforts across all relevant sectors of the state, she added. 

She urged girls to seek assistance from law enforcement if they feel unsafe and said the ministry's quick response team will reach victims within 24 hours of receiving complaints.

Speaking on the occasion, Women and Children Affairs Ministry Senior Secretary Momtaz Ahmed stressed the need for stronger laws, coordinated institutional measures, and increased public awareness.

Social Welfare Ministry Secretary Dr Mohammad Abu Yusuf said digital violence is a global issue that requires a united response.

The national dialogue organised in line with UN Women's global call launched on 18 November brought together representatives from the government, the United Nations, diplomatic missions, civil society, youth leadership and the technology sector, who highlighted the urgent need to address technology-driven violence.