In a society where victims of sexual harassment, domestic violence, and repression often hesitate to share their traumatic experiences with male police officers, the rising number of female members in Bangladesh Police provides a crucial avenue for these survivors. Superintendent of Police Mahmuda Begum highlighted the unique contribution women police officers are making to Bangladesh's law enforcement system. She noted that survivors often speak more openly to female officers, which helps build trust and strengthen the quality of evidence collected during investigations.
Breaking Barriers and Building Trust
Over the past five decades, since the first batch of women joined Bangladesh Police in 1974, female officers have transitioned from support roles to serving across every branch of the force. They now hold positions from constables to Additional Inspector General of Police (Addl IGP). This transformation reflects significant institutional change, with women currently accounting for 9.07 percent of the police force.
Additional Inspector General of Industrial Police Gazi Jashim Uddin praised the performance of women officers, stating they have successfully carried out responsibilities at every level. Their ability to communicate with female workers, mediate disputes, and de-escalate tensions has become invaluable, particularly in the garment sector where most workers are women.
Inspiring Future Generations
Mahmuda Begum believes the achievements of women officers are inspiring a new generation to aim higher. She noted that when senior women officers mentor younger colleagues, they instill confidence across the entire force. Young women joining Bangladesh Police now see that reaching senior leadership positions is possible through dedication and professional excellence.
The Bangladesh Police Women Network (BPWN), established in 2008, has been a major force behind women's professional advancement. Its Strategic Plan (2024-2027) focuses on increasing women's representation, promoting leadership, strengthening skills, ensuring safe workplaces, and expanding gender-responsive policing. Training programs jointly organized by BPWN and UN Women focus on trauma-informed interviewing and survivor-centred investigations.
