Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman on Tuesday said the government’s newly launched ‘Family Card’ programme is designed to place women at the centre of household support systems and strengthen their economic role within families.
Addressing a seminar titled “Fight, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls” at the Bangladesh Military Museum, the minister said the initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to promoting women’s rights and improving their economic independence.
The seminar was organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) with financial support from the European Union to mark International Women’s Day, while UN Women and the embassies of Switzerland, Canada and Sweden supported the event.
Asaduzzaman said the ‘Family Card’ programme is unique because ownership of the card has been assigned to female members of households, allowing women to directly access benefits and support services.
“Through this programme, women will be able to play a more active role in managing family resources and improving their families’ welfare,” he said.
The minister noted that the government has moved quickly to implement the initiative, launching the nationwide programme just 21 days after assuming office. According to him, the project demonstrates the administration’s focus on social protection and human rights.
Initially, around 37,000 Family Cards have been distributed under a pilot phase, with each card issued to the female head of the household or another female member.
Asaduzzaman said the initiative has the potential to significantly improve the lives of poor and vulnerable families. If implemented fully, it could reach more than 4 crore poor and ultra-poor households across the country.
He added that economic empowerment would help women become more independent and aware of their rights, enabling them to challenge social barriers such as superstition and discrimination.
The law minister also stressed that the programme will be implemented strictly according to eligibility criteria, ensuring transparency and fairness.
“Any corruption or irregularities in the distribution of Family Cards will not be tolerated,” he warned.
During the event, MJF Programme Coordinator Ruma Sultana presented the keynote paper.
The programme was attended by MJF Executive Director Shahin Anam, BLAST Executive Director Barrister Sara Hossain, UN Women Country Director Gitanjali Singh, and representatives from various national and international organisations.
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