State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed  Islam. File Photo

DHAKA, March 7, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed 
Islam today emphasised expanding women's participation in diplomacy, saying 
greater involvement of women in foreign policy and diplomatic service is 
essential for strengthening Bangladesh's global engagement.

Marking International Women's Day, in an exclusive interview today with 
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), the state minister said a growing number 
of women are already serving in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and 
Bangladesh missions abroad, reflecting gradual progress in women's 
representation in diplomacy.

"Many women are already working in the foreign ministry and our missions 
abroad. Their participation should increase further so they can play a more 
direct role in shaping foreign policy," she said.

Shama said encouraging more women to join the foreign service and diplomatic 
cadres would help utilise their talent, qualifications and professional 
experience in advancing Bangladesh's foreign relations.

She said women must be given greater opportunities in leadership and 
policymaking roles so that their perspectives are reflected in international 
negotiations and diplomatic engagements.

Highlighting broader empowerment efforts, the BNP leader said women's 
empowerment has long remained a priority of the party.

"If empowerment is to be meaningful, it must start from the grassroots 
level," she said, noting that the Family Card initiative aims to strengthen 
women's economic capacity from the village level while contributing to the 
national economy.

Shama also highlighted the role of former Prime Minister late Begum Khaleda 
Zia in expanding women's education across the country.

She said the government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working to 
ensure women can contribute to national development according to their 
abilities and qualifications without facing barriers.

The state minister also stressed the need for stronger measures to address 
violence against women, including rape and online harassment, through 
coordinated efforts involving government agencies, NGOs and international 
partners.

"Half of our population is women. Development cannot be achieved by leaving 
them behind," she added.
Shama also called for greater opportunities for women to contest direct 
elections and participate in decision-making.

Referring to political participation, she alleged that some parties involve 
women in campaign activities but rarely nominate them as candidates.

She mentioned Jamaat-e-Islami, saying the party often engages women in 
campaigning or media debates but does not nominate them in elections.

"That is their political decision, but the BNP follows its own principles 
regarding women's participation," she added.

Shama expressed optimism that the government's policies would further 
strengthen women's empowerment and security, noting that initiatives such as 
separate bus services for women have been introduced to enhance safety.

"Our commitment is clear - women's protection, empowerment and equal 
participation will remain a priority," she concluded.