Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has said an effective legal framework is needed to prevent digital and artificial intelligence (AI)-facilitated violence against women.

He said the government would review existing laws and give due importance to the views of relevant stakeholders in formulating new laws and provisions where necessary.

The law minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the event titled “Dhaka Dialogue: Ending Digital and AI-Facilitated Violence Against Women,” organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Thursday.

Asaduzzaman said Bangladesh has various laws to prevent cyberbullying, cyber harassment and violence against women through digital platforms. However, the rapid development of AI is creating new types of risks, and the government is reviewing laws and experiences from different countries to address them.

He said consultations with stakeholders have also begun on possible amendments to cyber security-related laws. Since such legislation involves important issues such as freedom of expression, he stressed the need for extensive consultation and an inclusive lawmaking process.

Highlighting various government initiatives to protect women’s rights and security, Md Asaduzzaman said steps have been taken to introduce digital systems for marriage and divorce registration and documentation.

He said the initiative would help prevent child marriage, forced marriage and other irregularities. At the same time, efforts to resolve disputes through legal assistance and mediation have also been strengthened.

The law minister said cooperation from all relevant stakeholders, alongside government efforts, is essential to address digital and AI-facilitated violence.

“The government will seriously consider any positive and effective recommendations in this regard,” he said.

The event was moderated by Foreign Ministry Secretary Asad Alam Siam.

Among others, the event was addressed by Johart Adib Chowdhury, chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs; State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid; State Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin Putul; Member of Parliament Sanjida Islam Tuli; and Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Dr Rowshan Ara Begum.