Round Table Discussion on "The Power of Women: From the Uprising to Greater Political Participation"

The Department of General Education (GED) facilitated student participation in a round table discussion hosted by Dhaka Tribune titled "The Power of Women: From the Uprising to Greater Political Participation." The event took place on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Six Seasons Hotel, Gulshan-2, in celebration of International Women’s Day.

During the discussion, ULAB sent five student representatives from GED—Sadia Tarannum, Sabrina Mostofa, Md. Rezanul Islam Raz, Mahmudul Hasan Sumon, and Md. Kawsar Ahmed Hamim—who actively participated in the Q&A session, engaging with experts on women’s political participation and empowerment.

Sadia Tarannum raised concerns about women’s safety and justice in Bangladesh. She questioned how women can enter politics when criminals walk free and victims are denied justice. She stressed that empowerment discussions are pointless without safety, justice, and accountability. She also pointed out that without action, such discussions waste time, as the lack of rule of law allows rapists to roam free while victims remain unheard. Her stance sparked important conversations among the panelists and audience.

The discussion was graced by special guest Dr. Rounaq Jahan, while H.E. Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen, Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh, was also present. The ULAB students interacted with H.E. Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen and other distinguished guests, concluding with a group photo session alongside participants and panelists.

The event shed light on the challenges women face in achieving true empowerment and political representation in Bangladesh. ULAB’s participation, particularly the insights shared by Sadia Tarannum, contributed to the discourse on ensuring justice and safety for women as prerequisites for leadership and political engagement.