Feminism in Bangladesh


Feminism in Bangladesh seeks equal rights of women in Bangladesh through social and political change. Article 28 of Bangladesh constitution states that "Women shall have equal rights with men in all spheres of the State and of public life".

History

Feminist movements in Bangladesh started long before its independence. During the 19th century the social reform movement, mostly carried out by male social leaders, worked to abolish practices such as infanticide, child marriage, and widow burning. Women activists in Bangladesh organized to claim their rights during the British and Pakistan period of Bangladesh. They mobilized to fight regarding issues including violence against women, economic opportunities for women, equal representation in politics for women, reproductive rights, reforming family law, and gender equality in public policies. During the Pakistan period the feminist movement was more focused on politics and national struggles. The feminist movement of the 1970s and 1980s was led by professional women from urban areas.

Issues

Muslim Family Law

The Muslim Family Law, created by the British Indian Government and later amended by Pakistani president Ayub Khan, is based on Shariah Law, which is discriminatory against women in Bangladesh.

Bangladeshi feminists