The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

The Netherlands Ambassador in Dhaka Bea M. ten Tusscher on Tuesday appreciated the government's commitment to promote equal participation of women in the development process for a 'more balanced socio-economic growth' of the country.

Her appreciation came at the certificate giving ceremony of a training programme for female journalists at News Network office at Dhanmomndi in the city.

The Dutch envoy, attending the function as the chief guest, handed over certificates to the participants of the six-month training programme.

Seventeen young female journalists took part in the course, funded by Free Voice, the Netherlands, under a two-year project titled 'Development Programme for Female Journalists'.

Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha Chief Editor Zaglul Ahmed Chowdhury addressed the function as the special guest. News Network Editor Shahiduzzaman and Humayra Ferdous Tania, a participant in the training course, also spoke on the occasion.

Referring to the government's efforts to minimize gender disparity, the Dutch envoy said, "In the PRSP (Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper), the government of Bangladesh underscores its commitment to reduce the gender gap in every sphere of life."

She says the PRSP gives priority to combating negative gender rations, removing restrictions to women's employment and promoting economic opportunities to ensure women's full participation in mainstream economic activities.

"Our sincere effort is to support the government, NGOs, civil society groups, the media and the business community, so that, they, together, will accelerate the process of reducing gender disparity and establishing women's rights in society, so that women can enjoy equal rights to men," the envoy said.

She expressed the hope that, in the coming days, all parts of society will work together to create a more gender-balanced society, particularly in the field of media, as "it has the potential to make a far greater contribution to the advancement of women."

Bea M. ten Tusscher said the number of women in the media in Bangladesh is very small compared to their male partners. "For every 100 male journalists only five female journalists can be found," she added.

The envoy said in most countries, including Bangladesh, the media keep presenting a negative and often stereotyped image of women, which does not reflect their diverse lives and their valuable contribution to society.

"No only do we need more female journalists, but the often gender stereotyped way in which women are presented in the media should also be changed," the Dutch envoy added.

She also called for increasing access of women to information for their empowerment.