Tarique Rahman pledges stronger policies for girls’ empowerment

BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed his party’s commitment to advancing the rights and empowerment of girls and women in Bangladesh, pledging bold and practical policies to ensure equal opportunity, safety, and dignity for all.

In a Facebook post marking the International Day of the Girl Child on Saturday, Tarique Rahman said, “Let’s celebrate every girl’s right to dream, to learn, to lead, to live in dignity.”

“As a father to a daughter, I know that empowering girls is not just policy — it’s personal,” he wrote, adding that the BNP’s vision for Bangladesh is one where every girl enjoys the same freedom and opportunity that any parent would wish for their own child.

Recalling the contributions of former President Ziaur Rahman, he said the BNP founder had “driven the growth of the garment sector” which became “more than an industry — it became hope,” helping millions of women enter formal work and achieve independence. Ziaur Rahman also established the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, institutionalising the advancement of women’s rights in Bangladesh.

Highlighting the initiatives of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Tarique noted that her government had made education for girls free up to Grade 10 and introduced the Food for Education and Cash for Education programmes, which helped millions of girls stay in school. Her Female Secondary School Assistance Project, he added, achieved gender parity for the first time in Bangladesh’s history and became a global model for developing nations.

“These show bold steps that prove what’s possible when governance honours the dignity of girls and invests in their future,” he said.

Outlining the BNP’s future priorities, Tarique Rahman listed six key policy commitments:

“Family Cards” in the name of women heads of households to ensure direct aid and support.
SME loans and business training for women entrepreneurs to secure financial independence.
Stronger academic and vocational opportunities for girls in both rural and urban areas.
Increased participation of women in politics and policymaking.
Protection of dignity and freedom, including the right to move, speak, and access the internet safely.
Family and social welfare reforms focusing on women’s health, empowerment, and employment.
Tarique Rahman concluded his post by stating, “We do not speak in empty rhetoric. We speak from conviction, backed by legacy and intention. For every girl who dreams, we will make the state her partner, not her obstacle.”