The importance of ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, was highlighted at an advocacy meeting held in Lalmohan, Bhola. Speakers emphasized the active role of young people in challenging negative gender stereotypes, eliminating discrimination and building an equitable society.

The meeting was organized by the voluntary organization Bangladesh Shopno Chhoya Foundation on Sunday (October 18) at the Lalmohan Upazila Hallroom. Discussions focused on the impact of gender stereotypes on women and young people, ways to reduce gender-based discrimination, and the role of youth in promoting gender equality.

The “Youth for Equality” project is being implemented to raise awareness and take effective action against negative social perceptions and discriminatory attitudes affecting women and young people. The project is jointly implemented by Jago Foundation Trust and Plan International Bangladesh, with financial support from the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh.

Special guests at the meeting included Lalmohan Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sifat Bin Sadek, Upazila Social Services Office official Masud, Department of Women Affairs official Kaniz Marzia, and journalist Yusuf Ahmed. Representatives from various government and non-government institutions, along with young people from different social organizations, also participated.

Participants identified negative gender stereotypes, gender-based discrimination and barriers to achieving equality through group activities, discussions and poster presentations. They also shared their views and proposed possible solutions to address these challenges.

The special guests said that eliminating gender-based discrimination and harmful social perceptions requires coordinated efforts by individuals, families, communities, youth organizations and relevant institutions. They stressed the need to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women and men while creating an inclusive, discrimination-free environment at every level of society.

They also highlighted the importance of strengthening awareness campaigns led by young people and encouraging their active participation in promoting equality.

The meeting featured enthusiastic participation, experience-sharing and constructive discussions among young representatives of different social organizations. The event underscored the importance of collective action to challenge gender stereotypes, raise social awareness and promote gender equality at the local level.

Bangladesh Shopno Chhoya Foundation expressed its belief that greater awareness and collective efforts by young people can help transform discriminatory attitudes and practices. The organization envisions an equitable Bangladesh where everyone enjoys equal opportunities based on their rights, abilities and potential rather than gender identity.