Diplomatic Desk:
In the context of deepening humanitarian crises worldwide, Bangladesh has called for strengthening humanitarian assistance, ensuring the protection of civilians and increasing women’s participation in peacebuilding activities.
While delivering a speech at the 2026 Humanitarian Affairs Segment of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to humanitarian principles and values. She said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh is working to expand social protection programs, strengthen disaster preparedness, empower women and support vulnerable populations.
On the same day, participating in the UN Security Council’s open debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), the State Minister highlighted the essential role of women in peacebuilding, conflict prevention and post-conflict reconstruction. She highly appreciated the professionalism, leadership and contribution of Bangladeshi women peacekeepers deployed in UN peacekeeping operations and called for increasing the meaningful participation of women in the peace and security sector.
The State Minister expressed deep concern over the increasing suffering of women and children in conflict zones worldwide. At the same time, she drew the attention of the international community to address the growing humanitarian funding gap. She emphasized the need for continued international cooperation for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis and called for their early return to their home country, Myanmar.
The State Minister will participate in the High-Level Panel Discussion-2 of the 2026 Humanitarian Affairs Segment of ECOSOC on June 18. On the same day, she will lead the Bangladesh delegation in a bilateral meeting with Sima Bahous, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, at the UN Headquarters.
