Hosted by Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE) at the YWCA of Bangladesh training centre on Wednesday (27 March), the event emphasised that civic space should remain open to all, aligning with the global principle of “Leave No One Behind” (LNOB).
Discussions highlighted the long-standing marginalisation of indigenous communities in Bangladesh and the need to build awareness among law enforcement agencies.
Participants also stressed the importance of embedding respect for socially excluded groups within early childhood education.
Notable speakers at the event included Dalia Chakma, Gender Lead at Sparc; Udisa Islam, City Editor at Bangla Tribune; Sharmin Ur Nahar, Senior Lecturer at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh; and Nadira Parvin, Project Manager at Nagorik Udyog. They collectively advocated for inclusive education, urging the integration of freedom of expression and civic responsibility into school curricula.
VOICE Executive Director Ahmed Swapan Mahmud said, “The importance of collaboration cannot be overstated. Journalists, NGOs, CSOs, digital rights activists, and human rights defenders must come together to share knowledge, highlight successful strategies, and identify challenges in combating disinformation and protecting individuals’ rights to freedom of expression.”
Promiti Prova Chowdhury, Project Manager at VOICE, presented recent cases of digital civic space (DCS) violations and gender disinformation. She said, “With threats from state and non-state actors alike, tackling the increasing dangers to free expression requires a unified approach. By joining forces, the various stakeholders can uphold freedom of speech and gender equality online and offline.”
Speakers warned that certain groups are attempting to amplify societal divides, making it crucial to incorporate teachings of inclusivity and the “Do No Harm” approach within the education system. They also called for school-based awareness programmes to promote respect for marginalised communities, counter gender disinformation, and create safer digital and civic spaces.
The meeting provided a platform to strategise ways to strengthen digital and civic engagement while addressing the challenges posed by disinformation, particularly against gender and minority groups.
