Concerted efforts needed to stop sexual harassment

Speakers tell workshop

26 May 2010, 18:00 PM

Staff Correspondent

Speakers at a workshop yesterday said concerted efforts of trade unions, employers, law enforcement agencies and media can help stop sexual harassment of women at workplaces. Alliance for Women and Children Rights (AWWR) with the support of International Labour Organisation (ILO) organised the workshop on “Role of the media to address gender equality and sexual harassment of women at workplaces” at National Press Club in the city. Prof Ishrat Shamim, chairperson of AWWR, said sexual harassment at workplaces has negative impact on productivity of women workers that ultimately affects adversely the national growth. She said the concerted efforts of the members of trade union, employers, law enforcement agencies, representatives of print and electronic media as well as people from all walks of life can prevent sexual harassment from all spheres of social life. TI M Nurunnabi Khan, programme officer of ILO, said their organisation has been working with the governments, owners and trade unions around the globe to ensure a decent working environment for both men and women. Abdul Quayum, joint editor of the Prothom Alo, said it is time to turn around and stand together to ensure gender equality and combat sexual harassment at workplaces and also in all spheres of our life. He said media should play more proactive role in disseminating authentic information in ensuring gender equality and combating sexual harassment at workplaces. Shah Hussain Imam, associate editor of The Daily Star, said it has been almost a hundred years of observing the International Women's Day and about 25 years has passed after the ratification of CEDAW. But how far the gender equality has been achieved is in question. He said though quite a number of women are working in various sectors in Bangladesh, it is important to include them in the policy and decision making process. Women will be able to contribute more at home and workplace as well as society if their contribution is recognised. Farzana Shahnaz Majid, member secretary of AWWR, in her presentation said women's participation in workforce has increased than ever before. But they are still facing discrimination that needs to be addressed collectively.