Central Women’s Affairs Secretary of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Nurunnisa Siddiqua has said that true empowerment of women can only be achieved when their safety and dignity are fully protected.

In a statement on the occasion of International Women’s Day, she said the day is important to reaffirm commitment to upholding the dignity, rights and security of women.

International Women’s Day, observed every year on March 8 worldwide, recognizes the tireless contributions of women to social, political and economic development.

She mentioned that the theme of this year’s Women’s Day is: “Today’s steps, tomorrow’s justice: Protect the rights of women and girls.” She urged that the theme be implemented meaningfully in daily life, rather than being limited to formal observances.

“Unfortunately, incidents of violence, torture and insecurity against women and girls in recent times have deeply concerned us,” she said.

Nurunnisa Siddiqua emphasized that true empowerment is possible only when women feel safe both at home and in society. “Talking about empowerment without ensuring women’s safety is not in line with reality. Although women’s empowerment is widely discussed in world politics, the safe and supportive social environment required for it is largely lacking in Bangladesh,” she said.

The Jamaat leader added that Islam grants women the highest status and respect, and that a just, humane and welfare-oriented society can only be built by ensuring the rights and dignity given by Allah and advancing women.

She called on people at all levels of family, society and state to play a conscious and effective role in protecting women.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, she urged everyone to work towards building a society where women can live safely, with dignity, and develop their talents fully to contribute to the nation.