MARCH 8, 2002

Hundreds celebrate International Women's Day in Bangladesh

The Hunger Project-Bangladesh celebrated International Women's Day on March 8, 2002, at Ramna Park with participation by all NGOs included in National Girls Child day committee. The chief guest was Ms. Begjadi Mahmuda Nasir, the winner of the Rokeya Award 2001. The program was presided by Dr. Badiul Majumdar, country director of The Hunger Project, Bangladesh.

Dr. Majumdar hands over the crest and flower to
Ms. Begzadi.

Professor Begjadi Mahmuda Nasir said in her speech, "We all collectively have to struggle for protecting women's rights. This will be achieved through our cooperative efforts, I believe. I don't like to make the difference between men and women, I identify that we all are human." She also added that women in Bangladesh are still far behind even though we are living in 21st century. "There is no alternative of doing comprehensive activities for this lacking."

Other distinguished guests also delivered speeches, drawing from their own experiences. Professor Latifa Akhand, a member of Beijing + Five, Bangladesh, focused on Professor Begjadi's performance which reflects her sincerity of the work, honesty and commitment. In addition, she requested all to follow Professor Begjadi's movement by bringing tremendous change to women in society.

Finally, Dr. Badiul Majumdar concluded the program by mentioning that "we have so many people who talk a lot, but there are very few less talkative people who can influence others through activities. Our movement to establish women's rights should start from family level." Pointing towards recent issues on women, he added, "it's a shame for us that our people are destroying many lives of our women. This should be stopped for the sake of our country's future. Without women no nation can move ahead towards development."

Finally, Dr. Majumdar requested all participants to dedicate the day to their mothers in order to make the day most meaningful. There were more than 300 participants in the program including 50 NGOs and other guests.

Rally in Dhaka, Bangladesh's capital city.	Mili Zakaria, an animator.
This group of young women sang the inaugural song at the festivies.	Barrister Turin Afroj.
Audience at International Women's Day in Bangladesh.
Shumi -- Student, Begum Badrunnesa Womens College.