Protesters took to Dhaka's streets on Wednesday to demand action on rising rape cases in Bangladesh, saying a new law that expanded the use of the death penalty was not enough to bring about real change.

Women's rights campaigners are demanding a root and branch reform of the legal system and more education to address what they say is a rising incidence of violence against women in Bangladesh.

Earlier this month, the government changed the law to make rape committed by a single person punishable by death following protests triggered by an online video showing a group of men sexually assaulting a woman.

Previously, the death penalty could only be applied to gang rape, or rape that resulted in the victim's death.

"We didn't protest to change the law or to look for punishments. We protested to change this culture where women and girls are treated unfairly," said Shireen Huq, founder of Naripokkho, a women's rights group.

"To change this, we need to attack the root. We need to include sex education in curriculums. We also need to educate families so that they stop blaming girls for this," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Government ministers could not immediately be reached for comment. Law Minister Anisul Huq told reporters last week that he was confident the change in the law would lead to a drop in rapes.

Bangladesh has seen a surge in reported sexual crimes in recent years, but convictions remain rare at just 3% of cases.

Nearly 1,000 sexual crimes were reported between January and September, including more than 200 gang rapes, according to human rights group Ain-o-Salish Kendra.

Women's rights campaigners say the true figure is likely much higher as such crimes often go unreported.

Among the proposals put forward by the Rape Law Reform Coalition of 17 human rights groups are more options for sentencing convicted rapists.

At the moment, the only options are life imprisonment or death, which campaigners said could make judges reluctant to convict.

It also wants the government to review the use of character evidence in rape cases, which it says provides scope for blaming the victim.

Campaigners have also urged the government to ensure rape trials are completed within 180 days.

"There are cases which have been running for 12 years. We need to improve on this," said Maleka Banu, a spokeswoman for Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, a women's rights group.

Activist Shrobona Shafique was among the about 150 protesters who turned out on Wednesday, following a larger demonstration over the weekend that was attacked by counter-demonstrators.

"We raised our voice against the attack of the anti-rape rally. We also reaffirmed that we don't think death sentence is the solution," she said. "We need systemic changes."

Protesters took to Dhaka's streets on Wednesday to demand action on rising rape cases in Bangladesh, saying a new law that expanded the use of the death penalty was not enough to bring about real change.

Protesters took to Dhaka's streets on Wednesday to demand action on rising rape cases in Bangladesh, saying a new law that expanded the use of the death penalty was not enough to bring about real change. Women's rights campaigners are demanding a root and branch reform of the legal system and more education to address what they say is a rising incidence of violence against women in Bangladesh. Earlier this month, the government changed the law to make rape committed by a single person punishable by death following protests triggered by an online video showing a group of men sexually assaulting a woman. Previously, the death penalty could only be applied to gang rape, or rape that resulted in the victim's death. "We didn't protest to change the law or to look for punishments. We protested to change this culture where women and girls are treated unfairly," said Shireen Huq, founder of Naripokkho, a women's rights group. "To change this, we need to attack the root. We need to include sex education in curriculums. We also need to educate families so that they stop blaming girls for this," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Government ministers could not immediately be reached for comment. Law Minister Anisul Huq told reporters last week that he was confident the change in the law would lead to a drop in rapes. Bangladesh has seen a surge in reported sexual crimes in recent years, but convictions remain rare at just 3% of cases. Nearly 1,000 sexual crimes were reported between January and September, including more than 200 gang rapes, according to human rights group Ain-o-Salish Kendra. Women's rights campaigners say the true figure is likely much higher as such crimes often go unreported. Among the proposals put forward by the Rape Law Reform Coalition of 17 human rights groups are more options for sentencing convicted rapists. At the moment, the only options are life imprisonment or death, which campaigners said could make judges reluctant to convict. It also wants the government to review the use of character evidence in rape cases, which it says provides scope for blaming the victim. Campaigners have also urged the government to ensure rape trials are completed within 180 days. "There are cases which have been running for 12 years. We need to improve on this," said Maleka Banu, a spokeswoman for Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, a women's rights group. Activist Shrobona Shafique was among the about 150 protesters who turned out on Wednesday, following a larger demonstration over the weekend that was attacked by counter-demonstrators. "We raised our voice against the attack of the anti-rape rally. We also reaffirmed that we don't think death sentence is the solution," she said. "We need systemic changes."

Bangladeshi protestors say death penalty not the answer to rise in rape

The United Kingdom has announced a $63 million funding for Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh and urged the global community not to 'turn away from Rohingya's suffering'.

UK gives $63 mn for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is re-locating nearly 1,00,000 Rohingya Refugees to the Bhashan Char Island. WION's Lakmina Jesmin Soma brings you a ground report from Bangladesh.

Gravitas: Bangladesh is re-locating 1,00,000 Rohingya Refugees

Hundreds of locals in Dhaka staged a protest rally from Dhaka to Noakhali to raise their voices against the rising number of rape incidents in the country.

Protests against rape & violence flare up in Bangladesh

Hundreds of locals in Dhaka staged a protest rally for the second day to raise their voices against the rising number of rape incidents in the country. Watch report.

Bangladesh rape protest: Protesters take part in second-day rally

Hundreds of locals in Dhaka staged a protest rally from&nbsp;Dhaka to Noakhali to raise their voices against the rising number of rape incidents in the country.

With banners reading "Dhorshon O Bicharhinotar Biruddhe Bangladesh" (Bangladesh against rape and impunity), several hundreds of locals and members of the opposition political party gathered&nbsp;at Shahbagh in the capital city on Friday morning.

The protestors are demanding&nbsp;exemplary punishment of the sexual violence attackers, resignation of the&nbsp;home minister and&nbsp;Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) charter, the local media reported.

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These protests have been increasing in number with the sudden increase in the cases of sexual violence against women, especially since the recent case of gang rape in Sylhet's MC College and in Noakhali's Begumganj upazila.

The protestors have started a two-day rally in which they will be marching to Gulistan on foot and then head towards Narayanganj by bus to hold a rally. From there, they will then move to&nbsp;Comilla and Feni and then hold a rally in Maizdi of Noakhali.

A total of seven buses will transport nearly 450 people and then five additional buses will join at Narayanganj,&nbsp;Samajtantrik Chhatra Front's Dhaka University unit Vice President Sadekul Islam Sadik told the local reporters.

Hundreds of locals in Dhaka staged a protest rally from Dhaka to Noakhali to raise their voices against the rising number of rape incidents in the country. With banners reading "Dhorshon O Bicharhinotar Biruddhe Bangladesh" (Bangladesh against rape and impunity), several hundreds of locals and members of the opposition political party gathered at Shahbagh in the capital city on Friday morning.

Hundreds of locals in Dhaka staged a protest rally from Dhaka to Noakhali to raise their voices against the rising number of rape incidents in the country. With banners reading "Dhorshon O Bicharhinotar Biruddhe Bangladesh" (Bangladesh against rape and impunity), several hundreds of locals and members of the opposition political party gathered at Shahbagh in the capital city on Friday morning. The protestors are demanding exemplary punishment of the sexual violence attackers, resignation of the home minister and Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) charter, the local media reported. Also read| India invited for global aid conference on rohingya refugees These protests have been increasing in number with the sudden increase in the cases of sexual violence against women, especially since the recent case of gang rape in Sylhet's MC College and in Noakhali's Begumganj upazila. The protestors have started a two-day rally in which they will be marching to Gulistan on foot and then head towards Narayanganj by bus to hold a rally. From there, they will then move to Comilla and Feni and then hold a rally in Maizdi of Noakhali. A total of seven buses will transport nearly 450 people and then five additional buses will join at Narayanganj, Samajtantrik Chhatra Front's Dhaka University unit Vice President Sadekul Islam Sadik told the local reporters.

Bangladesh: Hundreds begin two-day march to protest against increase in rape cases

Bangladesh is under renewed pressure from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to issue Bangladeshi passports to 54,000 Rohingyas living in that country for decades.

Rohingya in Saudi fear deportation: Dhaka and Riyadh in dispute over Rohingya

Bangladesh has rejected Chinese vaccine. It is finally distancing itself from Beijing. Palki Sharma Upadhyay asks - Can India seize the moment? Perhaps, start with settling the Teesta water dispute?

Gravitas: Teesta water dispute, Time to settle it?

Bangladesh is putting China in its place. Dhaka has turned down Chinese vaccine trials and cancelled a major Chinese infrastructure project. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how South Asia could take lessons from Bangladesh's approach to tackle China.

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Gravitas: Teesta water dispute: Time to settle it?

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Gravitas: Decoding Sheikh Hasina's balancing act

Bangladesh will not co-fund a late-stage domestic trial of a potential coronavirus vaccine developed by China's Sinovac Biotech, the country's health minister Zahid Maleque told Reuters on Tuesday.

Bangladesh refused to co-finance Chinese vaccine trials

A new study has revealed that about 45 per cent of Dhaka residents have developed Covid-19 antibodies. The study says that the rate climbs to 74 per cent among slum-dwellers in the city.

The study, commissioned by the government`s disease control agency IEDCR, was conducted between April 18 and July 5 in collaboration with USAID. The national-level study found presence of the virus in 9.8 per cent of the samples.

The study was unveiled during an event in Dhaka on Monday.

The data showed that until July 5, 45 per cent of people in Dhaka were infected with coronavirus and they developed antibodies in the process.

Among the infected, around 24 per cent were over the age of 60, while 18 per cent were between 15-19 years old.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-approves-death-penalty-for-rape-amid-protests-334746">Bangladesh approves death penalty for rape amid protests</a>

The virus was detected in the samples of 12,699 people living in the 25 wards of Dhaka, equating to an infection rate of 9.8 per cent, according to the researchers.

The researchers also found "some information" on re-infections in Bangladesh over the course of the study, reports bdnews24.

Health Minister Zahid Maleque, who participated at the event via video link, said: "The government has acted quickly to prevent the transmission of the novel coronavirus. Due to this, the prevalence of coronavirus in the country is low.

"Compared to many other countries, Bangladesh has done well in controlling coronavirus."

Bangladesh, one of the worst-hit South Asian country after India, has so far reported more than 380,000 coronavirus cases, with 5,555 deaths.&nbsp;

(With IANS inputs)

A new study has revealed that about 45 per cent of Dhaka residents have developed Covid-19 antibodies. The study says that the rate climbs to 74 per cent among slum-dwellers in the city.

A new study has revealed that about 45 per cent of Dhaka residents have developed Covid-19 antibodies. The study says that the rate climbs to 74 per cent among slum-dwellers in the city. The study, commissioned by the government`s disease control agency IEDCR, was conducted between April 18 and July 5 in collaboration with USAID. The national-level study found presence of the virus in 9.8 per cent of the samples. The study was unveiled during an event in Dhaka on Monday. The data showed that until July 5, 45 per cent of people in Dhaka were infected with coronavirus and they developed antibodies in the process. Among the infected, around 24 per cent were over the age of 60, while 18 per cent were between 15-19 years old. Also Read | Bangladesh approves death penalty for rape amid protests The virus was detected in the samples of 12,699 people living in the 25 wards of Dhaka, equating to an infection rate of 9.8 per cent, according to the researchers. The researchers also found "some information" on re-infections in Bangladesh over the course of the study, reports bdnews24. Health Minister Zahid Maleque, who participated at the event via video link, said: "The government has acted quickly to prevent the transmission of the novel coronavirus. Due to this, the prevalence of coronavirus in the country is low. "Compared to many other countries, Bangladesh has done well in controlling coronavirus." Bangladesh, one of the worst-hit South Asian country after India, has so far reported more than 380,000 coronavirus cases, with 5,555 deaths. (With IANS inputs)

Nearly half of Dhaka residents carry Covid-19 antibodies, says study

About 45% of the residents of Dhaka have developed COVID-19 antibodies, with the rate climbing to 74% among slum-dwellers. Watch report.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Half of Dhaka's residents carry antibodies

Bangladesh has proposed a foreign minister-level meeting between Bangladesh, Myanmar, and China over the Rohingya repatriation issue. Watch report.

Rohingya refugee crisis: Bangladesh, Myanmar and China talks in Beijing

Bangladesh’s cabinet on Monday approved the death penalty for rapists amid nationwide protests in the wake of a series of gang rapes and sexual assaults.

WION Dispatch: Bangladesh approves death penalty for rape amid protests

Residents in Dhaka on Tuesday (October 13) came out in support of a decision by the government to implement the death penalty for rapists in the wake of a series of gang rapes and sexual assaults.

Residents rally in support of new death penalty for rape in Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s cabinet on Monday approved the death penalty for rapists amid nationwide protests in the wake of a series of gang rapes and sexual assaults.

Bangladesh has seen a surge of sexual crimes in recent years, with nearly 1,000 incidents reported between January and September, more than a fifth of them gang rapes, according to human rights group Ain-o-Salish Kendra.

Experts, however, said tougher penalties would not be enough to tackle the problem and authorities needed to immediately address systemic problems in rape trials and the extremely low conviction rates.

Rights activists blame the increasing number of assaults on a culture of impunity and protection of suspects by influential individuals for political reasons.

The cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, approved the proposal to make the death penalty the highest punishment for rape, Law Minister Anisul Huq told Reuters.

"The law needed to be amended quickly...(Cabinet) has decided an ordinance will be promulgated tomorrow, with the approval of the president, as the parliament is not holding sessions currently," he said.

The latest outpouring of national anger was sparked by a video of a group of men stripping and attacking a woman for almost half an hour in the southeastern district of Noakhali.

An investigation by an autonomous state body, the National Human Rights Commission, found the woman in the video had been raped repeatedly and terrorised with weapons by one of the group over the last year.

"No mercy to rapists" shouted protesters gathered in the capital Dhaka and elsewhere, hundreds of women and students among them. Many carried placards bearing messages such as "Stop rape culture."

"Every day, newspapers carry fresh stories of sexual violence against women," said Sahana Islam, a university student, who joined the protests.

"I fear I am next. I want death penalty for the rapists so that the rest of the inhuman creeps can learn what will happen to them if they ever dare to do it."

When survivors file a complaint for sexual assault in Bangladesh prosecution is very rare and takes years to complete, and the conviction rate in trials that do go to court is very low.

In addition, many rapes go unreported because women fear being stigmatised.

A 2013 survey conducted by the United Nations found that, among men in Bangladesh who admitted to committing rape, 88% of rural respondents and 95% of urban respondents said they faced no legal consequences.

Bangladesh’s cabinet on Monday approved the death penalty for rapists amid nationwide protests in the wake of a series of gang rapes and sexual assaults. Bangladesh has seen a surge of sexual crimes in recent years, with nearly 1,000 incidents reported between January and September, more than a fifth of them gang rapes, according to human rights group Ain-o-Salish Kendra.

Bangladesh’s cabinet on Monday approved the death penalty for rapists amid nationwide protests in the wake of a series of gang rapes and sexual assaults. Bangladesh has seen a surge of sexual crimes in recent years, with nearly 1,000 incidents reported between January and September, more than a fifth of them gang rapes, according to human rights group Ain-o-Salish Kendra. Experts, however, said tougher penalties would not be enough to tackle the problem and authorities needed to immediately address systemic problems in rape trials and the extremely low conviction rates. Rights activists blame the increasing number of assaults on a culture of impunity and protection of suspects by influential individuals for political reasons. The cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, approved the proposal to make the death penalty the highest punishment for rape, Law Minister Anisul Huq told Reuters. "The law needed to be amended quickly...(Cabinet) has decided an ordinance will be promulgated tomorrow, with the approval of the president, as the parliament is not holding sessions currently," he said. The latest outpouring of national anger was sparked by a video of a group of men stripping and attacking a woman for almost half an hour in the southeastern district of Noakhali. An investigation by an autonomous state body, the National Human Rights Commission, found the woman in the video had been raped repeatedly and terrorised with weapons by one of the group over the last year. "No mercy to rapists" shouted protesters gathered in the capital Dhaka and elsewhere, hundreds of women and students among them. Many carried placards bearing messages such as "Stop rape culture." "Every day, newspapers carry fresh stories of sexual violence against women," said Sahana Islam, a university student, who joined the protests. "I fear I am next. I want death penalty for the rapists so that the rest of the inhuman creeps can learn what will happen to them if they ever dare to do it." When survivors file a complaint for sexual assault in Bangladesh prosecution is very rare and takes years to complete, and the conviction rate in trials that do go to court is very low. In addition, many rapes go unreported because women fear being stigmatised. A 2013 survey conducted by the United Nations found that, among men in Bangladesh who admitted to committing rape, 88% of rural respondents and 95% of urban respondents said they faced no legal consequences.

Bangladesh approves death penalty for rape amid protests

Bangladesh government is considering introduction of a death penalty for those convicted of rape. A government minister confirmed this on Friday following angry protests that erupted this week over online video. The video showed a group of men sexually assaulting a woman. Currently, the maximum punishment for rape is life imprisonment.

A proposal for an urgent amendment to current rape legislation is being prepared. The review is to be submitted on Monday.

"We need to ensure that those who are proven guilty get the punishment they deserve... this is being drafted on behalf of the prime minister's instructions," Law Minister Anisul Huq told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Women's rights activist are demanding stricter implementation of law instead of solely making them stricter.

More than 950 women were raped in Bangladesh in the first nine months of this year, according to rights group Ain o Salish Kendra. That was similar to the number of rapes reported during the same period last year, but up from 2018.

Campaigners, however, say the real number is much higher, with many women reluctant to report sexual assaults.

Hundreds of Bangladeshis took to the streets of Dhaka and other cities this week to protest, demanding safe spaces for women and the arrest of rapists after the video circulated on social media.

An investigation by the country's National Human Rights Commission - an autonomous state body - found that the woman in the video had been threatened and raped repeatedly by one of the men in the group over the last year.

Police have arrested at least 10 suspects in connection with the video, said Alamgir Hossain, police superintendent in Noakhali, the southeastern city where the footage was shot.

Two weeks earlier, the alleged gang rape of a woman in a student hostel in the northeastern city of Sylhet sparked similar street protests and calls for the government to take steps to tackle sexual violence.

"The Bangladesh government needs to listen to women," said Meenakshi Ganguly, from Human Rights Watch, on Friday. "The government should ensure that all sexual assault survivors are treated with dignity."

Salma Ali, president of Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association, said tougher penalties would not be enough.

"Focusing solely on capital punishment won't work... Our Women and Children Repression Prevention tribunals are overburdened. The number of courts need to increase," she said.

"We also need to focus on victim protection. Several other aspects related to this law need to be updated," she added.

(With Reuters inputs)

Bangladesh government is considering introduction of a death penalty for those convicted of rape. A government minister confirmed this on Friday following angry protests that erupted this week over online video.

Bangladesh government is considering introduction of a death penalty for those convicted of rape. A government minister confirmed this on Friday following angry protests that erupted this week over online video. The video showed a group of men sexually assaulting a woman. Currently, the maximum punishment for rape is life imprisonment. A proposal for an urgent amendment to current rape legislation is being prepared. The review is to be submitted on Monday. "We need to ensure that those who are proven guilty get the punishment they deserve... this is being drafted on behalf of the prime minister's instructions," Law Minister Anisul Huq told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Women's rights activist are demanding stricter implementation of law instead of solely making them stricter. More than 950 women were raped in Bangladesh in the first nine months of this year, according to rights group Ain o Salish Kendra. That was similar to the number of rapes reported during the same period last year, but up from 2018. Campaigners, however, say the real number is much higher, with many women reluctant to report sexual assaults. Hundreds of Bangladeshis took to the streets of Dhaka and other cities this week to protest, demanding safe spaces for women and the arrest of rapists after the video circulated on social media. An investigation by the country's National Human Rights Commission - an autonomous state body - found that the woman in the video had been threatened and raped repeatedly by one of the men in the group over the last year. Police have arrested at least 10 suspects in connection with the video, said Alamgir Hossain, police superintendent in Noakhali, the southeastern city where the footage was shot. Two weeks earlier, the alleged gang rape of a woman in a student hostel in the northeastern city of Sylhet sparked similar street protests and calls for the government to take steps to tackle sexual violence. "The Bangladesh government needs to listen to women," said Meenakshi Ganguly, from Human Rights Watch, on Friday. "The government should ensure that all sexual assault survivors are treated with dignity." Salma Ali, president of Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association, said tougher penalties would not be enough. "Focusing solely on capital punishment won't work... Our Women and Children Repression Prevention tribunals are overburdened. The number of courts need to increase," she said. "We also need to focus on victim protection. Several other aspects related to this law need to be updated," she added. (With Reuters inputs)

Bangladesh considers introducing death penalty for rape after protests against online video

Watch today in WION Dispatch: Protests over sexual assault have rocked the South Asian country of Bangladesh. Protesters scuffle with police for a second day.

WION Dispatch: Protests over sexual assault rocked South Asian country of Bangladesh

Hundreds of people protested, clashed with police in Bangladesh for a second day on Tuesday over the gangrape in the capital city of Dhaka.&nbsp;

The demonstrations erupted across the country after a video circulated that showed several men stripping and assaulting a woman, who belonged to a disadvantaged community in the southern district of Noakhali. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/do-more-to-end-child-marriages-un-tells-bangladesh-333258">Do more to end child marriages, UN tells Bangladesh</a>

The clip was shared tens of thousands of times on Facebook before it was pulled down, triggering outrage in the country.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/do-more-to-end-child-marriages-un-tells-bangladesh-333258">Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials</a>

Several people got injured after demonstrators scuffled with police in Dhaka while marching on the office of PM Sheikh Hasina.

Dhaka University students and left-wing protesters chanted slogans against Hasina and demanded her resignation.&nbsp;

As per the local human rights organisation Ain-o-Salish Kendra (ASK), from January till September 2020 about 1,000 rape cases were reported, which includes 208 gang rapes.

The United Nations has also expressed its concern over the rising number of instances of violence against women in Bangladesh.

It has also demanded urgent reforms in the criminal justice system to support and protect the victims and witnesses.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hundreds of people protested, clashed with police in Bangladesh for a second day on Tuesday over the gangrape in the capital city of Dhaka. The demonstrations erupted across the country after a video circulated that showed several men stripping and assaulting a woman, who belonged to a disadvantaged community in the southern district of Noakhali.

Hundreds of people protested, clashed with police in Bangladesh for a second day on Tuesday over the gangrape in the capital city of Dhaka. The demonstrations erupted across the country after a video circulated that showed several men stripping and assaulting a woman, who belonged to a disadvantaged community in the southern district of Noakhali. Also read | Do more to end child marriages, UN tells Bangladesh The clip was shared tens of thousands of times on Facebook before it was pulled down, triggering outrage in the country. Also read | Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials Several people got injured after demonstrators scuffled with police in Dhaka while marching on the office of PM Sheikh Hasina. Dhaka University students and left-wing protesters chanted slogans against Hasina and demanded her resignation. As per the local human rights organisation Ain-o-Salish Kendra (ASK), from January till September 2020 about 1,000 rape cases were reported, which includes 208 gang rapes. The United Nations has also expressed its concern over the rising number of instances of violence against women in Bangladesh. It has also demanded urgent reforms in the criminal justice system to support and protect the victims and witnesses.

Hundreds protest, clash with police over gangrape in Bangladesh

A United Nations report released on Wednesday urged Bangladesh to take more drastic efforts if it wants to end child marriages in the country.

Currently, the country has set 2041 as the goal to eliminate child marriages from the country.

"This human rights violation...[is] robbing children of their childhoods," said a spokesperson for UN's children agency - Veera Mendonca, as reported by Reuters.

"We must invest now to secure girls’ rights to life and education, and reduce their exposure to violence and exploitation,” she said while releasing the report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/chinese-firm-breaks-promise-made-to-bangladesh-on-covid-19-vaccine-trials-332517" hreflang="en">Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials</a>

Bangladesh has approximately 38 million girls who were married before they turned 18, according to UN numbers. This is almost half of the country’s female population!

In 1970s, the rate of child marriage in Bangladesh stood at 90%, which has since then dropped to 51%.&nbsp;

Even though the situation has improved, the country still has the highest rate of underage marriages in South Asia.

According to law, the minimum age of marriage in the country is 18 for women and 21 for men.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/us-bangladesh-take-part-in-high-level-consultation-on-economic-partnership-331781" hreflang="en">US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership</a>

During the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, 190 UN member states including Bangladesh pledged to end child marriage.

Owing to the shutdown of businesses and schools, risks of child marriages in the country have shot up. Due to the loss of income and closure of schools which may cause increased pressure at home, risks of child marriage have increased.

"Even during normal times married girls are over four times more likely to be out of school than unmarried girls”, the report said.

A United Nations report released on Wednesday urged Bangladesh to take more drastic efforts if it wants to end child marriages in the country. Currently, the country has set 2041 as the goal to eliminate child marriages from the country.

A United Nations report released on Wednesday urged Bangladesh to take more drastic efforts if it wants to end child marriages in the country. Currently, the country has set 2041 as the goal to eliminate child marriages from the country. "This human rights violation...[is] robbing children of their childhoods," said a spokesperson for UN's children agency - Veera Mendonca, as reported by Reuters. "We must invest now to secure girls’ rights to life and education, and reduce their exposure to violence and exploitation,” she said while releasing the report. Also read: Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials Bangladesh has approximately 38 million girls who were married before they turned 18, according to UN numbers. This is almost half of the country’s female population! In 1970s, the rate of child marriage in Bangladesh stood at 90%, which has since then dropped to 51%. Even though the situation has improved, the country still has the highest rate of underage marriages in South Asia. According to law, the minimum age of marriage in the country is 18 for women and 21 for men. Also read: US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership During the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, 190 UN member states including Bangladesh pledged to end child marriage. Owing to the shutdown of businesses and schools, risks of child marriages in the country have shot up. Due to the loss of income and closure of schools which may cause increased pressure at home, risks of child marriage have increased. "Even during normal times married girls are over four times more likely to be out of school than unmarried girls”, the report said.

Do more to end child marriages, UN tells Bangladesh

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh. Sinovac has told Bangladesh that it needs to co-finance the effort if it wanted phase-3 trials to take place in the country.

"They (Sinovac Biotech Ltd) sent a letter to Bangladesh government seeking co-financing for performing phase-3 human trial," Abdul Mannan, the health division secretary of Bangladesh, was quoted as saying by The Daily Star, Bangladesh's largest circulating English language newspaper.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-company-refuses-to-honour-vaccine-deal-with-bangladesh-332780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per The Daily Star, Sinovac had made an agreement with Bangladesh saying that it would bear the cost of the phase-3 trials itself.

In a letter to Bangladesh dated September 24, Sinovac said that the trials would get delayed unless Bangladesh co-financed the efforts. No specific amount has been mentioned by Sinovac as yet

"It may take some time to reach a concrete decision on co-funding the vaccine trial . . . (but) Bangladesh government is sincerely thinking about the matter keeping in mind the issue of public benefits," Mannan said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-bangladesh-take-part-in-high-level-consultation-on-economic-partnership-331781">US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership</a>

Dr Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam, the chief professor at Directorate General of Health Services said that Bangladesh government was positive about the proposal.

However, officials familiar with the fresh development said they received Sinovac's proposal seeking the co-funding on September 22.

Bangladesh continues to report a surge in the number of coronavirus cases, with the current infections number standing at 368,690. The total number of deaths due to the deadly virus stands at 5,348, local media reported.

(With PTI inputs)

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh. Sinovac has told Bangladesh that it needs to co-finance the effort if it wanted phase-3 trials to take place in the country.

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh. Sinovac has told Bangladesh that it needs to co-finance the effort if it wanted phase-3 trials to take place in the country. "They (Sinovac Biotech Ltd) sent a letter to Bangladesh government seeking co-financing for performing phase-3 human trial," Abdul Mannan, the health division secretary of Bangladesh, was quoted as saying by The Daily Star, Bangladesh's largest circulating English language newspaper. As per The Daily Star, Sinovac had made an agreement with Bangladesh saying that it would bear the cost of the phase-3 trials itself. In a letter to Bangladesh dated September 24, Sinovac said that the trials would get delayed unless Bangladesh co-financed the efforts. No specific amount has been mentioned by Sinovac as yet "It may take some time to reach a concrete decision on co-funding the vaccine trial . . . (but) Bangladesh government is sincerely thinking about the matter keeping in mind the issue of public benefits," Mannan said. Also Read: US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership Dr Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam, the chief professor at Directorate General of Health Services said that Bangladesh government was positive about the proposal. However, officials familiar with the fresh development said they received Sinovac's proposal seeking the co-funding on September 22. Bangladesh continues to report a surge in the number of coronavirus cases, with the current infections number standing at 368,690. The total number of deaths due to the deadly virus stands at 5,348, local media reported. (With PTI inputs)

Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh.

Chinese company seeks co-financing for phase-3 trial in Bangladesh

Like every region in the world the pandemic has hit the job market in the Bangladesh very hard. From the poor workers to the new job seekers & even those who lost their jobs during the pandemic, how are they coping up? A ground report from Dhaka tells you more.

Migrant workers protesting in Dhaka to go back to Saudi

WION Dispatch: United States & Bangladesh had economic partnership for advancing economic ties of both countries.

WION Dispatch: US-Bangladesh economic partnership for advancing economic ties

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina virtually addressed the 75th UNGA. She went out to highlight the biggest refugee crisis.

Bangladesh PM highlights Rohingya crisis at UNGA

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Sunday that the neighbours in South Asia should have "better cooperation" for benefit of their own people as outgoing Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das made a farewell call on her.

"We always think that better cooperation with the neighbouring countries is firstly needed for the development of the people of the region," Hasina's press secretary Ihsanul Karim quoted her as telling Das during the meeting at the prime minister's official residence Ganobhaban.

"Our foreign policy is friendship to all and malice towards none," Hasina said as issues of bilateral interests came up during their discussion.

The Indian envoy handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his Bangladeshi counterpart greeting on her birth anniversary and also presented a bouquet to her on his behalf.

"Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday?Your (Hasina) visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation, and equally your contributions to our bilateral relations have been extremely impressive," Modi's letter read.

During the meeting, the Indian envoy reiterated the importance of Bangladesh in the "Neighborhood First" policy of India and "recounted the progress made in the bilateral relations under the visionary leadership" of the two prime ministers, said a press release issued by the Indian mission here.

It said that the golden jubilee celebration of 1971 Liberation War and the fiftieth anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in the next year also figured in their meeting.

The Indian envoy presented a collection of rare footage of the visit of Hasina's father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to India in 1972 to her.

She thanked Das for her contribution to strengthening India-Bangladesh relations.

Hasina said the neighbouring countries could use Bangladesh's Chattogram, Sylhet and Syedpur Airports for their convenience.

Karim said the COVID-19 situation and the Rohingya crisis also came up for discussion.

Das' call on came as officials said Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen was set to join with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday through virtual platform.

Momen recently described bilateral ties with New Delhi "rock solid".&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Sunday that the neighbours in South Asia should have "better cooperation" for benefit of their own people as outgoing Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das made a farewell call on her.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Sunday that the neighbours in South Asia should have "better cooperation" for benefit of their own people as outgoing Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das made a farewell call on her. "We always think that better cooperation with the neighbouring countries is firstly needed for the development of the people of the region," Hasina's press secretary Ihsanul Karim quoted her as telling Das during the meeting at the prime minister's official residence Ganobhaban. "Our foreign policy is friendship to all and malice towards none," Hasina said as issues of bilateral interests came up during their discussion. The Indian envoy handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his Bangladeshi counterpart greeting on her birth anniversary and also presented a bouquet to her on his behalf. "Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday?Your (Hasina) visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation, and equally your contributions to our bilateral relations have been extremely impressive," Modi's letter read. During the meeting, the Indian envoy reiterated the importance of Bangladesh in the "Neighborhood First" policy of India and "recounted the progress made in the bilateral relations under the visionary leadership" of the two prime ministers, said a press release issued by the Indian mission here. It said that the golden jubilee celebration of 1971 Liberation War and the fiftieth anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in the next year also figured in their meeting. The Indian envoy presented a collection of rare footage of the visit of Hasina's father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to India in 1972 to her. She thanked Das for her contribution to strengthening India-Bangladesh relations. Hasina said the neighbouring countries could use Bangladesh's Chattogram, Sylhet and Syedpur Airports for their convenience. Karim said the COVID-19 situation and the Rohingya crisis also came up for discussion. Das' call on came as officials said Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen was set to join with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday through virtual platform. Momen recently described bilateral ties with New Delhi "rock solid".

Sheikh Hasina stresses 'better cooperation' with neighbours as outgoing Indian envoy calls on

Twenty-six Bangladeshi policemen are undergoing termination proceedings for failing a surprise drug test, according to media reports.

The erring officials include a traffic sergeant, four sub-inspectors, three assistant sub-inspectors, a 'nayek', and 17 constables -- all members of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the Dhaka Tribune reported.

The DMP is conducting surprise dope tests on law enforcement officials as part of a wider crackdown on drug peddling. Over 100 policemen have been tested so far, the report added.

Most of the erring officials were found using yaba pills (amphetamine) and marijuana.

DMP Commissioner Md Shafiqul Islam told the newspaper that the termination proceedings will end soon. A departmental case has been filed against them and they will be dismissed after the legal process is duly followed.

"Policemen who are involved with drugs or helping drug traders will be arrested and prosecuted. At (police) unit meetings, I have said tell me if anyone of is addicted to drugs so we can arrange for their treatment," Islam said.

The sackings come at the backdrop of increased allegations of police involvement in drug mafia and of some using themselves.

"We first identified a list of suspected drug abusers, scrutinised the list, and finally tested them. We have conducted dope test on over 100 police officials,? the DMP chief told the newspaper.

He said the sackings should send out the clear message that drug trade will not be tolerated. 
More drug tests in the police force are expected in the coming weeks.

The Daily Star reported that the suspended officials are being treated as regular criminals.

The drug tests have created fear and many of the officials are said to be cleaning up their act before the surprise test, The Daily Star reported.

Twenty-six Bangladeshi policemen are undergoing termination proceedings for failing a surprise drug test, according to media reports. The erring officials include a traffic sergeant, four sub-inspectors, three assistant sub-inspectors, a 'nayek', and 17 constables -- all members of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the Dhaka Tribune reported.

Twenty-six Bangladeshi policemen are undergoing termination proceedings for failing a surprise drug test, according to media reports. The erring officials include a traffic sergeant, four sub-inspectors, three assistant sub-inspectors, a 'nayek', and 17 constables -- all members of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the Dhaka Tribune reported. The DMP is conducting surprise dope tests on law enforcement officials as part of a wider crackdown on drug peddling. Over 100 policemen have been tested so far, the report added. Most of the erring officials were found using yaba pills (amphetamine) and marijuana. DMP Commissioner Md Shafiqul Islam told the newspaper that the termination proceedings will end soon. A departmental case has been filed against them and they will be dismissed after the legal process is duly followed. "Policemen who are involved with drugs or helping drug traders will be arrested and prosecuted. At (police) unit meetings, I have said tell me if anyone of is addicted to drugs so we can arrange for their treatment," Islam said. The sackings come at the backdrop of increased allegations of police involvement in drug mafia and of some using themselves. "We first identified a list of suspected drug abusers, scrutinised the list, and finally tested them. We have conducted dope test on over 100 police officials,? the DMP chief told the newspaper. He said the sackings should send out the clear message that drug trade will not be tolerated. More drug tests in the police force are expected in the coming weeks. The Daily Star reported that the suspended officials are being treated as regular criminals. The drug tests have created fear and many of the officials are said to be cleaning up their act before the surprise test, The Daily Star reported.

26 Bangladeshi policemen face termination for failing drug test

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh has called for stronger international action to help Rohingya refugees in the country to return to neighbouring Myanmar.

Bangladesh PM urges greater international action on Rohingya status

At least 25,000 Bangladesh migrant workers who work in Saudi Arabia are not able to fly back to Riyadh. Their visas and work permits have expired. Currently, no direct flights are going to Saudi Arabia. Ticket prices have spiked. And all of them are now staring at loss of livelihood.

At least 4 million Bangladeshis work in the country. That's 31 per cent of Bangladesh citizens' employment overseas. 
&nbsp; 
But all is not well between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh. Thousands of Bangladeshi migrant workers are protesting in country's capital because they want to return to Saudi Arabia. However, visas and work permits of many workers have expired and there are no flights or flight tickets available.

As a result, 25,000 workers are stranded in Bangladesh. 
&nbsp; 
Saudi Arabia has announced visa extension for migrant workers but there has been no update on official sites.

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Migrant workers also point out that the crisis is not all black and white as there is tussle between civil aviation authorities of the two countries. 
&nbsp; 
Bangladesh's flagship carrier Biman Bangladesh wanted to operate flights to Saudi Arabia. And Saudi Airlines too wanted to operate flights to Bangladesh. While Saudi Airlines was given nod, Biman Bangladesh's request was blocked by Saudi civil aviation authority. Dhaka soon revoked the permission given for Saudi Airlines.

As a result, many migrant workers, even those with tickets, could not board planes.

Both airlines have been allowed to resume operations from October 1. Since the date is just a week away, the tickets are now being sold in the black market.

The problem dosen't end here. Riyadh claims that many Rohingyas have moved to Saudi Arabia from Bangladesh. It is now pushing for their repatriation. 
&nbsp; 
Bangladesh workers are still stranded. How does the situation impact Bangladesh?

It impacts through lower revenue by way of remittances.&nbsp;

Income from foreign labour has always been a large contributor to Bangladesh's economy. Last year it was around 19 billion US Dollars.

31 per cent of Bangladesh's migrant workers are employed in Saudi Arabia. They are now staring at uncertainty and job losses.

At least 25,000 Bangladesh migrant workers who work in Saudi Arabia are not able to fly back to Riyadh. Their visas and work permits have expired. Currently, no direct flights are going to Saudi Arabia.

At least 25,000 Bangladesh migrant workers who work in Saudi Arabia are not able to fly back to Riyadh. Their visas and work permits have expired. Currently, no direct flights are going to Saudi Arabia. Ticket prices have spiked. And all of them are now staring at loss of livelihood. At least 4 million Bangladeshis work in the country. That's 31 per cent of Bangladesh citizens' employment overseas. But all is not well between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh. Thousands of Bangladeshi migrant workers are protesting in country's capital because they want to return to Saudi Arabia. However, visas and work permits of many workers have expired and there are no flights or flight tickets available. As a result, 25,000 workers are stranded in Bangladesh. Saudi Arabia has announced visa extension for migrant workers but there has been no update on official sites. × Migrant workers also point out that the crisis is not all black and white as there is tussle between civil aviation authorities of the two countries. Bangladesh's flagship carrier Biman Bangladesh wanted to operate flights to Saudi Arabia. And Saudi Airlines too wanted to operate flights to Bangladesh. While Saudi Airlines was given nod, Biman Bangladesh's request was blocked by Saudi civil aviation authority. Dhaka soon revoked the permission given for Saudi Airlines. As a result, many migrant workers, even those with tickets, could not board planes. Both airlines have been allowed to resume operations from October 1. Since the date is just a week away, the tickets are now being sold in the black market. The problem dosen't end here. Riyadh claims that many Rohingyas have moved to Saudi Arabia from Bangladesh. It is now pushing for their repatriation. Bangladesh workers are still stranded. How does the situation impact Bangladesh? It impacts through lower revenue by way of remittances. Income from foreign labour has always been a large contributor to Bangladesh's economy. Last year it was around 19 billion US Dollars. 31 per cent of Bangladesh's migrant workers are employed in Saudi Arabia. They are now staring at uncertainty and job losses.

Diplomatic crisis brews between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh

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