The New Nation - Internet Edition

THE super cyclone Sidr wrought havoc on the south and southwestern districts and left a trail of destruction everywhere. According to an estimate, roads of about 90,000 kilometres and a large number of bridges and culverts have been damaged partially and some 650 km fully. This has become an obstacle to emergency rescue operations and distribution of relief materials. The government has sought one billion dollars from the donors for massive rehabilitation works in the affected areas. It is estimated that about 300 million US dollars would be necessary just for the repair and reconstruction of the roads and bridges.

Good communication network serves as an artery for economic activities of the people. It is all the more true for a zone ravaged by cyclone. The World Food Programme of the United Nations and the Bangladesh government have adopted programmes to feed the victims for the next four to six months. But distribution of the relief materials has become difficult for the dilapidated condition of the road communication network. Without roads and bridges repaired, commodities to and from the affected areas cannot be transported. The decrepit communication network is working as an obstacle to the revival of economic activities as well as people cannot easily move from one place to another. Repair and reconstruction of local roads and culverts are labour-intensive works that may be implemented under the Food for Work Programme. This will create employment opportunities for the unemployed workers in the affected areas and help avert migration of huge number of unemployed people to urban areas.

Reconstruction of highways and bridges are more technical and can be done under the Roads and Highways Department.

During reconstruction of roads and bridges, one thing deserves to be borne in mind. In the present state of global climate change, cyclones and tidal bores in the coastal regions are speculated to repeat with greater intensity. So, tensile strength of the materials used for the reconstruction will have to be such that they can withstand onslaughts even by much stronger cyclones or tidal bores. Government has identified the vital sectors under its massive rehabilitation programme on a priority basis. Restoration of road communication is such an important sector which, it is believed, would expedite the implementation of the rehabilitation plan successfully. For the revival of life and economy in the cyclone-battered coastal region of the country, the repair and reconstruction of the damaged roads, culverts and bridges should be given first priority.

THE International Right to Information Day is celebrated annually in Bangladesh. But the observation of the day turns out to be reminder that the country still does not have a law enacted to guarantee access to this right. Although the press is by and large free they are sometimes barred by the Official Secrets Act of the British period from enjoying this right. Thus, it was very heartening to note that the incumbent interim government has taken steps for the introduction of a law. This was disclosed by the Law and Information Adviser in a function which he addressed recently. But at the same breath he warned that the government can only promulgate such a law. It would be up to the next elected Parliament to approve this Act to be able to sustain it. As it happened, lawmakers in previous parliaments showed no interest to prepare and adopt such a law as the same could go against their own vested interests. Thus, all challenges to the sustainability of the said law would remain. The civil society, the media and other opinion makers in the society must gird up their loins and endeavour to ensure the retention of this vital piece of legislation which is about to be enacted for the benefit of the people.

Democracy cannot be considered fully functioning or the ways to good governance will not be secured as long as this important law is not made operational. A fundamental aspiration of a democratic system, anywhere, ought to be the providing of good governance. But good governance is possible when governmental activities can be subjected to scrutiny or transparency. Right to information is indispensable to provide assured access to information that can lead to applying pressure on the government or ruling party potentates for their corruption, abuse of power, tyrannies and other objectionable activities that do not help the attainment of good governance. In the process, people's interests or their democratic interests are served. On the other hand, the right to information and its benefits are conceivable only where democracy or democratic institutions have taken firm roots.

Ironically, the right to information was denied expressly by those who were so vocal about it during the autocratic governance of the country. Several assessments including a major foreign-sponsored one laid deep focus on grave disregard for freedom of press and right to information under ruling political parties since the decade of the nineties. In other cases, pressmen were brutally assaulted by members of the underworld for reporting bravely on criminal activities. At present, as the country lacks a right to information law which is synonymous with press freedom, the present interim government is seen to be moving with all sincerity to promulgate such a law. But as pointed out by the adviser concerned, the people will have to struggle further to ensure that this law is not discarded when an elected government takes over.

Pervez Musharraf, President of Pakistan

Over the past year, the conflict in Afghanistan and the emergence of a virulent campaign by foreign terrorists to destabilize Pakistan have created a national threat that has interrupted Pakistan's progress much as America experienced in 2001-02. Foreign terrorists have engaged our security forces and suicide bombers have struck at metropolises that are the pulse of our nation. These events have caused me to take unpopular and extraordinary actions to protect civil order.

Those actions have succeeded in minimizing violence and the vulnerability to attacks, with costs incurred to civil liberty and institutional balance. We are actively engaging civil society to ensure that it continues its critical role in building a consensus around a progressive agenda.

Through all this, my commitment to free elections has not wavered and we will have elections in January, 2008. Elections are a very short time away, particularly for a nation that is 160 million strong, rich in diverse political opinions. America has the luxury of national campaigns in which a vision for your future can be developed and explained by your candidates over years. In Pakistan, we have but weeks. That is why I have been dismayed that the media has reduced our national discourse to a conflict between institutions and individuals, instead of real issues affecting the well-being of the people.

I will judge Pakistan's elections a success if they meet two criteria. First, they must take place in a free and safe environment. We cannot allow terrorists to hijack this critical democratic institution through violence. Nor can we allow self-serving politicians to disrupt the consensus required to continue the fight against terror. Second, we must move beyond personalities to debate a vision for Pakistan: a vision that builds upon our achievements, leveraging Pakistan's intrinsic strengths, and taking the people of Pakistan beyond a narrow-minded focus to an integrated perspective reflecting development, justice, and prosperity. At this critical juncture, Pakistan needs the continuity of successful policies-not a myopic hustle for individual power.

We are confident in our ability to provide security. But as America knows well, a secure future requires more than physical security. Our literacy rate of 54% must be raised. One hundred million Pakistanis (63% of the population) are under 25 years of age, and many are intimidated by a vocal minority of extremists. We need to continue developing the economic opportunity that will give these young people the hope and encouragement to persuade them not to fall prey to extremist rhetoric, but rather to work productively toward a future that will benefit them and Pakistan as a whole. Even beyond the national borders, my concept of "Enlightened Moderation" needs to be used as a bridge between the Western World and the alienated Islamic world.

In a November, 2007 speech before the Center for U.S. Global Engagement, U.S. Senator Joseph Biden, among the most experienced foreign policy experts in Washington, called for "A New Approach to Pakistan." Senator Biden got many things right. He lauded Pakistan's tradition of democracy. He recognised our "large moderate majority." He recognised that a secure Pakistan is a Pakistan in which free institutions are made self-perpetuating by strong economic progress. He recognied that the building of schools, hospitals and infrastructure would support advancement of the Pakistani people and bring them out of the poverty trap of the past.

Indeed, over the past eight years, we have built a solid foundation for an economically vibrant Pakistan. We have maintained one of Asia's highest GDP growth rates at 7.5%, increased our per-capita income by 38%, and achieved a record high foreign investment of $8.4 billion, up from a mere $ 322 million in 2000. Other financial indicators support this trend: Pakistan's total foreign exchange reserves have increased nine fold to reach $15.7 billion, the stock exchange index has increased more than tenfold, the exchange rate has remained stable, 1.5 million Pakistanis have come above the poverty line, and the public debt has halved.

Taking advantage of our geo-strategic position, we have improved the infrastructure environment by investing in public sector development funds and promoting public-private partnerships towards infrastructure mega-projects. We have created a strong system of local governance where elected representatives manage their local districts with the help of civil administration, thereby significantly empowering the masses at the grassroots level.

We have deregulated the media to where it is the freest in the history of Pakistan, where it is expected to exercise its freedom with responsibility. I have always believed in the freedom of expression and have respected difference of opinion, and I will continue to do so in the future. We have sought to create a government balanced between the executive, legislative and judiciary branches, coupled with a vibrant, peaceful and productive civil society.

Senator Biden was correct when in his New Hampshire speech he said the world must take a new approach to Pakistan, helping our people by solving problems. He made a mistake, however, when he referenced a "Musharraf policy" separate from a "Pakistan policy". I have never had a policy separate from a "Pakistan policy".

My policies have reflected the aspirations of the progressive, moderate forces in Pakistan that have been aimed at containing the growing extremist forces fueled by regional unrest. Pakistan's physical security and that of the world necessitates that religious extremists are sidelined; that Pakistan's natural resources and nuclear assets are protected; and that military morale remains high.

It is my commitment to ensure continued implementation of a policy that will take the people of Pakistan safely through this critical junction towards a future free from the present conflict. The vision I will present for a 'new Pakistan' in the coming days, as Pakistan's civilian democratically-elected President, rests on this decisive premise.

Konika Biswas

Saleha Begum of Bagerhat's Chitalmari upazila was married off in 1975 with a schoolteacher when she was only 16. The adolescent bride did not get the mental support from her in-laws what she needed.

Her husband, Sajedur Rahim, used to move to town leaving Saleha back in the village because of his job. In his absence, Saleha had to endure all the mental and physical tortures by her in-laws.

As she was married off at an early age, it took some time for Saleha to have a baby. And this had provoked her in-laws to raise question even about her fertility. Saleha's husband used to feel sorry for her but could not protest. By the time the couple got two daughters and moved to Dhaka despite his family's objection.

Saleha had thought she would now leave a happy life. But her in-laws were not ready to spare her yet. They continued to interfere in her personal life. Having failed to endure the long ordeal, the poor lady broke down mentally in 1999. Initially, no one cared a great deal about it. But, at one stage, her mental distress went out of control. Under pressure from the relatives, Saleha's husband first resorted to unscientific methods conducted by fakirs (holy men).

Last of all, Saleha was taken to a psychiatrist only to know that she had been suffering from schizophrenia. Unhappiness, mental torture and negligence were blamed for the psychological problem.

Take the example of Sabrina's mom. She is also a victim of negligence and mental torture. Sabrina, a second year university student, says, "My dad is the second husband of my mom and he could not normally accept her first marriage. So he had a lack of passion for her. My dad never gives my mom the attention she deserves as a wife. My father humiliates and lets others humiliate her. As a result, my mother broke down psychologically."

Let's turn to the much-talked-about two sisters-Mita and Rita. One is doctor and another engineer. These two talented women are also suffering from schizophrenia. Misbehavior by their close relatives is blamed for this. The two sisters gradually withdrew themselves from everything and chose to confine themselves in their huge house. Meanwhile, with the help of media and other organizations they were provided medical treatment and they got cured. But the problem has relapsed for lack of all-time support.

All the three case studies point at the severity of the problem. More or less it exists in almost all the families of the country. Intolerant behaviour towards women by the family members, including husband and children, causes the mental breakdown. This mental distress, in many cases, leads women to schizophrenia.

Dr Rezwana Kadri, a psychiatrist of Lab Aid Hospital, says, "If a mental problem persists for a longer period an individual may suffer from any disease. In case of schizophrenia it has to be seen if a women is being respected."

In our society, a mother or wife does everything apart from earning money. But they have no say when it comes to decision making. Mothers, usually, do not have any say in matters like timing of having a baby, children's education and their marriage. In many cases, this negligence causes an adverse reaction among the women, particularly those belonging to middle class and educated families.

Any person may suffer from schizophrenia. Psychiatrists have identified depression to a great extent and sadness as the main reasons for this disease.

Dr Mohit Kamal, a psychiatrist of National Mental Health Institute, says, "Schizophrenia is such a mental disease where people's thoughts are attacked. Perception becomes faulty. One becomes unaware how he or she is behaving."

According to specialists, if an individual has certain symptoms for two months or more primarily he or she can be considered as a schizophrenic patient. These symptoms are delusion, hallucination, disorganized or catatonic behaviour and negative symptoms (lack of human quality).

The tendency of schizophrenia among men and women is the same. But there is a difference in terms of age. On average, men are more affected at age between 20 and 25 while women between 25 and 30. But the prevalence of getting affected after 40 is also predominant among women.

Although the tendency of this disease is equal among men and women, the number of female victims in Bangladesh is greater than that of men. As women become the victims of complication of the society, they are vulnerable to this disease. Another reason is that schizophrenia is a hereditary disease. Dr Zahir of National Mental Health Institute says, "One per cent people has the tendency of this disease. It's not that there should be an expression of that."

Schizophrenia is actually a result of compilation of many causes such as family history, mental and social condition and violence at home. Women in Bangladesh are more vulnerable to this disease because they are humiliated at home in many ways by their close relatives.

"Family troubles can deteriorate the condition of a victim to a great extent when his or her perception does not work," says Dr Zahir.

In most cases, schizophrenic women find themselves in a devastating situation in the third-world countries. Usually, they are tortured inhumanly by fakirs and exorcists thinking that they have been influenced by demons and ghosts. Instead of helping, the relatives turned their back on the victims.

According to experts, there is a suicidal tendency among 50 percent of the schizophrenic patients. Of them, 20 percent of the victims under treatment become successful in their efforts to commit suicide.

Previously, 70 percent patients had to be on medication for the rest of their life. But due to the development of medical science in recent time 25 percent get cured completely. Those who do not stay 50 percent well through proper medication, love and care.

In this regard, Dr Mohit says, "If the family and relatives want schizophrenic patients can lead a complete normal life. But, lack of security and love may cause the relapse of this disease in case of 40 percent patients."

All the experts are of the opinion that provided rehabilitation, love, care and compassion of the family members, schizophrenia is not at all an incurable disease. The good news is family ties are very strong in our country. Therefore, husband's love and care can increase the self-control and courage of a mentally distressed woman.

Dr Zahir says, "Pakistan is on top in case of rehabilitation of schizophrenic patients, as their family ties are strong and love for each others is profound. And, Bangladesh is no exception."

A housewife is the life of a family. Her mental devastation will influence her future generation very badly. Therefore, all-out efforts are essential to address the issues for which women may suffer from this dangerous disease. Besides, mass awareness is very important about reduction of violence against women and various types of mental diseases.

Mahmuda Begum

Bangladesh is one of them victim country for internationally trafficked persons, primarily women, girls and children. Several thousand women and girls are trafficked annually from Bangladesh for the purpose of sexual exploitation, primarily to India, Pakistan, and the Middle East. Most trafficking girls and women are sexually abused; often they also experience other forms of physical and psychological violence. They are in high risk of becoming infected with STD's including HIV/AIDS and they are by the surrounding society seen upon as non-pure and among the lowest ranked in the society.

AIDS is noxious disease; Social customs and risky behavior fueled of this disease to scatter rapidly in some region in the world. There are several social components link to develop this harmful situation. Poverty-behind to force it, Gender inequality plays a vital role; Frustration and risky behaviour help to sink humanity resulting infection. The link between poverty and gender inequality helps to decline socio economic prosperity. This link creates several anti social poisonous issues also, such as trafficking to prostitute, sell sex for earning or living, break down family norm to create frustration and driven drug point etc.

Trafficking in young women and children is a matter of great concern all over the world. In South Asia, cross-border trafficking, sourcing, transit to destination is a giant problem. Even more prevalent is the movement of persons within the countries for exploitation in various forms. There are no exact figures about the number of victims. Trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation is the most virulent form in South Asia. A survey conducted by Rainbow Nari O Shishu Kallyan Foundation revels that the girls forced (trafficking) into the brothels do not want to return to their homes once they are into it for more than one year. Such girls believe they would be victim of social stigma and face discrimination from the society. They also believe, their family would suffer several social taboo, self-respect, and social-dignity.

The movement of young girls from Nepal and Bangladesh into Indian brothels is common. However, most of the trafficking takes place within India itself. There is further movement of these women and girls to the Middle East as well as other destinations. Similar movement from Pakistan and Sri Lanka has been observed. At times of hardship, this starts out as illegal migration and ends up as trafficking. Internal displacement due to conflict in some of these countries, poverty and lack of employment opportunities, increase the vulnerabilities to being trafficked.

Ms Khaleda Habib, principal of Udayan High School said, "Day by day it is mounting evidence that the trafficking of women and children for sexual exploitation, is a significant problem in every country. Usually commercially sex trafficking is more than an issue of crime or migration; it is an issue of gender discrimination and the worse status of women. Around the world most trafficked people are adolescent girls, women and children of low socio-economic status, and the primary trafficking flows are from poor of developing countries to more wealthy countries."

AIDS researcher Mohammad Khairul Alam said, "Trafficking in girls and women is warmly linked to movements in search of employment opportunities. Poverty and gender discrimination make girls and women more vulnerable to traffickers and buyers. The traffickers are not accompanying the women while crossing the border. So it is difficult for the border police to arrest them. There are some female members in the trafficking gang, which helps to hide their identity. Initiatives to reduce poverty and promote gender equality are therefore of direct importance in efforts to combat trafficking."

Trafficked victims are often subjected to cruel mental and physical abuse, including beating, rape, starvation, forced drug use, confinement and seclusion, in order to keep them in servitude. Once victims are brought to destination countries, their passports are often confiscated. Victims are forced to have sex, often unprotected, with large numbers of partners and to work unsustainably long hours. Many victims suffer mental breakdown and are exposed to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. They are often denied medical care, and those who become sick are sometimes even killed.