Dhaka, Feb 11 (V7N) — The United Nations has urged the safe, inclusive, and meaningful participation of women in Bangladesh ahead of the 13th parliamentary elections and referendum scheduled for Thursday (February 12).

The call was made in a statement issued by the UN Resident Coordinator’s office in Dhaka on Tuesday.

The statement emphasized that safe and meaningful participation in elections is a fundamental right for everyone, including women with disabilities, women from minority communities, and people of diverse gender identities.

The UN called on all stakeholders — including political leaders, parties, and supporters — to refrain from harassment, violence, or intimidation against women during the electoral process. This applies to both women candidates and voters, whose participation and safety are vital for an inclusive democratic process.

The statement also noted concerns raised by political leaders, activists, journalists, human rights groups, women’s organizations, and civil society regarding cyberbullying, deepfakes, systematic harassment, and misuse of AI-generated sexually suggestive content targeting female voters and candidates.

The UN highlighted that incidents of violence during elections could pose a serious threat to the democratic process and expressed trust that Bangladeshi authorities will continue to ensure security, uphold the rule of law, and protect everyone’s rights. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government in safeguarding the rights and safety of all citizens.

END/SMA/AJ