Ahead of the national election in Bangladesh, the United Nations on Wednesday said it notes 'concerns' raised by women’s groups and civil society organizations on violence and harassment of women candidates and voters, including digital violence.
The UN called on all stakeholders, including political leaders and their parties and supporters, to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to intimidation, harassment and any other form of violence against women throughout the electoral process.
This applies equally to women candidates and voters, whose participation and safety are essential to inclusive democratic processes, said the UN in a statement.
As Bangladesh prepares for the 13th national election on February 12, the United Nations underscored that safe, inclusive and meaningful participation in public life is a fundamental right.
This includes the rights of all women and girls, including women with disabilities, women from minority communities, gender diverse people, and others who may face heightened barriers, discrimination or gender-based violence.
Women in public life, including political leaders, activists, journalists and human rights defenders, are reporting increased incidents of cyberbullying, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and image-based abuse, including AI-altered and sexualised content, said the UN.
It has consistently advocated for women’s meaningful representation and leadership with all stakeholders and is supporting the Bangladesh Election Commission to boost women’s electoral participation and representation.
"It is essential that all voters, including women, can participate as candidates and voters without intimidation, discrimination, online abuse or fear of reprisals," said the UN.
It said they are confident that authorities will continue to take steps to uphold security and the rule of law, and to ensure the safety and rights of every individual.
"The United Nations remains committed to supporting the authorities to ensure the safety and rights of every individual," the statement reads.
