The United Nations and Bangladesh

The United Nations and Bangladesh

The Roles of the CEDAW Charter against the Discrimination towards Women

  • The CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women) Charter was adopted based on the principle of equality without discrimination as to race, sex, etc.
  • The primary focus is on ensuring equal rights for women, addressing that while legal rights may exist in different countries, discrimination persists.
  • Ratifying countries are legally obligated to comply with the Charter, indicating an international commitment to women's rights.
  • Key Features of the CEDAW Charter:
      - Comprises 30 Articles:
        - First 16 Articles: Outline various forms of discrimination against women.
        - Remaining 14 Articles: Provide detailed strategies and measures to eliminate such discrimination.
  • Recognition of gaps despite legal frameworks, emphasizing the necessity of eliminating barriers to women's access to economic and social development.
International Observances Related to Women's Rights
  • On November 17, 1999, the United Nations General Assembly declared November 25 as International Women Torture Resistance Day.
  • This day initiates a two-week observance known as Women Torture Resistance Fortnight, running from November 25 to December 10.
  • March 8 is recognized as World Women's Day, highlighting the UN's ongoing efforts to enhance women's status and address women's development concerns globally.

The Roles of the Bangladesh Peace Keeping Troops in the United Nations

  • Bangladesh is identified as a peace-loving nation, aligning with the UN's mission of maintaining international peace and security.
  • Contributions to UN Peace Keeping Missions are significant, highlighted by:   - Time Frame: From 1988 to 2024, approximately 194,856 peacekeepers from Bangladesh have participated in 63 UN peacekeeping missions across 40 countries.   - Impact on Acceptance: Through notable achievements in African nations, Bangladesh's reputation as a model for peace has flourished.
  • Distinctive Acceptance: While troops from other nations faced political bias and rejection in various African and Asian contexts, Bangladeshi peacekeepers garnered acceptance, admiration, and respect from local populations.
  • As a result of their involvement:   - Bengali has been recognized as a 2nd State Language in Sierra Leone.   - A significant road in Ivory Coast has been named "Bangladesh Road" in honor of Bangladesh's contributions.
  • In addition to army personnel, the involvement of male and female police in UN peacekeeping missions further underscores the commitment of Bangladesh to fostering peace internationally.
  • Visual Aid: Photo of the Bangladesh Army (referenced as Photo 9.1 in the document).