Bangladesh calls for greater women's role in humanitarian response, peacebuilding

Bangladesh has called for stronger humanitarian assistance, enhanced protection of civilians and greater participation of women in peacebuilding efforts as humanitarian crises continue to deepen across the world.

The call was made by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam while addressing the 2026 Humanitarian Affairs Segment of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on Wednesday (June 17).

Reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to humanitarian principles and global solidarity, the state minister highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to expand social protection programmes, strengthen disaster preparedness, empower women and support vulnerable communities.

During her address, Shama Obaed stressed that growing global conflicts, displacement and climate-related disasters require a more coordinated international response. She urged the global community to reinforce humanitarian assistance mechanisms and ensure adequate protection for civilians affected by crises.

On the same day, the state minister also participated in the UN Security Council’s open debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), where she underscored the indispensable role of women in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery.

She praised the professionalism, leadership and contributions of Bangladeshi female peacekeepers serving in United Nations missions around the world and called for increased and meaningful participation of women in peace and security initiatives at all levels.

Expressing concern over the growing suffering of women and children in conflict zones, Shama Obaed also urged the international community to take more decisive action to address the widening funding gap facing humanitarian operations worldwide.

The state minister further highlighted the prolonged Rohingya crisis, emphasizing the need for sustained international engagement to ensure a durable solution. She reiterated Bangladesh’s call for the safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable repatriation of displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar.

Bangladesh’s interventions at the UN meetings focused on key global issues including humanitarian assistance, women’s empowerment, peace and security, and the Rohingya crisis, reflecting the country’s continued efforts to amplify these priorities on the international stage.