Save the Children promotes girls' rights, empowerment

Save the Children in Bangladesh celebrated IDG Carnival 2026 to mark the International Day of the Girl, calling for stronger action to protect girls' rights, promote their leadership and empowerment, and ensure their meaningful participation in society.

The event was held on Thursday in Dhaka under the theme “Rooted in Every Region, Rising for Every Girl,” said a press release.

Speaking as the chief guest, Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapon said, “Misinterpretation of religion and patriarchal attitudes remain major challenges to achieving gender equality and women's empowerment in Bangladesh. We must address these barriers to build an inclusive, developed Bangladesh free from discrimination.”

He further emphasised the government's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment in building the Bangladesh of tomorrow. Highlighting the role of development partners, he said that Save the Children's experience, support and partnerships could make an important contribution to this effort.

“We hope Save the Children will continue working alongside the government to advance women's rights, reduce discrimination and build a more equal society,” he added.

Organised under Save the Children's SWOCCHAR project, with funding from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and in collaboration with the National Youth Network (NYN) and women-led organisations, the carnival highlighted the importance of helping girls reach their full potential, develop leadership skills and actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.

Members of parliament Helen Jerin Khan, Mahmuda Habiba, and Mansura Akter attended the event as special guests, alongside Dr Iliza Azyei, chief of adolescents and youth at United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Bangladesh.

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The event highlighted the barriers girls and adolescent girls continue to face in accessing education, employment, leadership opportunities, entrepreneurship and decision-making spaces. Speakers called for joint efforts by families, communities, government institutions and development partners to create safe and supportive environments where girls' voices are heard, their experiences are valued and their rights are protected.

The carnival also served as a platform to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and encourage collective action for girls' rights and empowerment. Through the SWOCCHAR project, Save the Children in Bangladesh aims to support girls in raising their voices, accessing equal opportunities and taking an active role in shaping a more equal and inclusive society.