Deep concern was expressed over the current crisis in child rights and protection in Bangladesh at a discussion titled "Presentation on the State of Child Rights" held in Patuakhali. The event, organized jointly by the Lal Sobuj Society and the Foundation for People, took place on October 29.
The discussion was held at the conference room of the Patuakhali District Administrator, with District Administrator and Magistrate Dr. Mohammad Shahid Hossain Chowdhury present as the chief guest. Special guests included Additional Police Superintendent Apu Sarwar, Local Government and Additional District Administrator Jewel Rana, and Additional District Administrator (General) Masud Ul Alam.
Presided over by Lal Sobuj Society's Program Officer Md. Israfil, the event featured remarks by District Administrator Dr. Mohammad Shahid Hossain Chowdhury. He stated, "The family and school are a child’s first refuge. It is in these two places that the foundation of a child’s development is laid. Therefore, love, care, and security for children must be given the highest priority in both the family and school."
He further added, "Today’s children are the citizens of tomorrow. Hence, their environment for growth must be safe. Families, teachers, and society as a whole must be vigilant to ensure that no child falls victim to bullying or mental abuse."
During the discussion, Lal Sobuj Society representative Momena Sifa Rumki presented a detailed overview of the child rights situation. She highlighted that an analysis of 1,289 child-related news reports published in 12 national dailies from January to August 2025 revealed that 1,069 were negative, while only 220 were positive. The report identified health disparities and abuse, child rape and murder, and accidental deaths as the three biggest threats to child safety. The highest number of incidents were reported in the Dhaka division, indicating disparities in child protection between urban and rural areas.
The event was attended by representatives and officials from various government and non-government organizations, including the District Council, Municipality, Government College, Medical College Hospital, Department of Women’s Affairs, District Social Services Office, Department of Family Planning, Shishu Academy, and Department of Youth Development.
