International Day Of The Girl Child: Tarique Rahman Pledges Stronger Policies For Girls’ Empowerment

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

In a Facebook post marking the International Day of the Girl Child on Saturday, Tarique Rahman wrote, “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 said, adding that the BNP’s vision for Bangladesh is one where every girl enjoys the same freedom and opportunity that every parent desires for their own child.

Reflecting on 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,” enabling millions of women to enter the formal workforce and achieve economic independence. Ziaur Rahman also established the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, institutionalising efforts to advance women’s rights in Bangladesh.

Tarique Rahman also highlighted the initiatives of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, noting that her government made education free for girls up to Grade 10 and launched the Food for Education and Cash for Education programmes, helping millions of girls stay in school. Her Female Secondary School Assistance Project, he said, achieved gender parity for the first time in Bangladesh’s history and became a global model for developing nations.

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

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

1. Family Cards issued in the name of women heads of households to ensure direct aid and support.

2. SME loans and business training to help women entrepreneurs achieve financial independence.

3. Expanded academic and vocational opportunities for girls in both rural and urban areas.

4. Greater participation of women in politics and policymaking.

5. Protection of dignity and freedom, including safe access to movement, speech, and the internet.

6. Family and social welfare reforms focused on women’s health, empowerment, and employment.

Concluding his message, Tarique Rahman said, “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.”