No sustainable development without women’s empowerment: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman emphasised that no nation can achieve balanced and sustainable development unless women are empowered to participate fully, live with dignity, and progress with confidence and security.

He made the remarks in a Facebook post on Sunday, marking International Women’s Day.

Extending heartfelt greetings to women in Bangladesh and across the globe, Tarique highlighted the theme of this year’s celebration, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”

He noted that the theme serves as a timely reminder that advancing women’s status requires more than words - it demands real protection of rights, tangible justice, and meaningful action.

“Women are not just half of our population; they are the backbone of families, communities, and the nation’s development,” the Prime Minister wrote. “Their contributions are evident everywhere - in homes, schools, agriculture, industries, public service and leadership roles.”

Tarique pointed to the Family Card initiative as a concrete example of women-centred development. By issuing the card in the name of the mother or female head of household, the programme recognises women as the pillars of resilience and care in countless families.

“Women manage limited resources, safeguard children and elders, and hold families together in hardship. Empowering them strengthens entire households,” he said.

The Prime Minister explained that the Family Card can provide financial security and dignity to women, support families near the poverty line, and safeguard nutrition, education and health for children.

“Direct assistance to women strengthens not only the individual, but the family and society at large,” he wrote.

Tarique linked the initiative directly to the Women’s Day theme: “It affirms the rights of women by placing them at the heart of family and national life. It delivers justice by supporting the households bearing the greatest burden. And it translates commitment into action, improving the everyday lives of women and girls.”

He stressed that women’s empowerment goes beyond representation - it is about human dignity, social balance and national progress.

“Stronger women mean stronger families, stronger families mean stronger communities, and stronger communities mean a stronger Bangladesh,” the Prime Minister added.

Concluding his message, Tarique called for a renewed commitment to building a Bangladesh where women live safely, walk with dignity and contribute confidently to the country’s future.

“Let rights be real, justice be visible, and action bring lasting improvements to the lives of all women and girls,” he said.