Bangladesh: Burmese refugee marks Women's Day

March 9, 2008 – (Kaladan Press Network) Teknaf, Bangladesh: Burmese refugees in Nayapara camp marked International Women's day on March 8, with pleas for greater rights and equality for half the region's population. The theme of this year's Women's Day was "Investing in Women and Girls," said a Refugee Master from the camp.

This function was jointly organized by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), World Food Program (WFP), Technical Assistant Incorporate (TAI) and Government of Bangladesh. The function was presided over by Mr. Jim Warral, the head of sub-UNHCR of Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh and Jabet Hassan, the food basket monitor of TAI was the master of ceremonies.

Noted personalities, police officials and refugee women and girls, male refugees were present at the function. About 600 people participated in the function.

Maulana Abdul Karim recited a Quaranic verse and translated into Bangla parts which concern women's rights.

The spokespersons were Mrs Yasmin Hanan, Camp-in-Charge Nazim Uddin, Mrs Monika, the field coordinator of Research Training and Management International (RTM), Miss Rokeya, the Handicap International, Kamal of refugee Committee and Abdul Hamid Chowdhury. They all spoke about women's rights and anti-violence on women.

One of the speakers said that laws that discriminate against women are still to be found on the statue books of virtually every country in the world. All countries needs to think about a social structure where women will get the full opportunity to express and show their capabilities and efficiencies, said another Majee who participated in the function.

Women's education is important as the half of the population in the world is women. Without women's education, there will be no prosperity in a family and even in a country.

Refugees joined in the ceremony on eliminating discrimination and violence against women. Women's lack of economic security and financial independence also came for discussion.

Later, colorful cultural programs accompanied by dance and songs with musical instruments were staged by the refugee girls who were under the age of 10. The guests witnessed the cultural show. Chowdhury Abdul Hamid distributed prizes to the girls.

The function was concluded at 3 pm after refreshments. It started at 10.

From:http://www.kaladanpress.org//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1205&Itemid=2