Dhaka: Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Indira Rana, has highlighted the structural and social barriers that continue to impede the meaningful participation of women journalists in the media industry. Speaking at an interaction event held at the Nepali Embassy in Dhaka, Rana emphasized the need for combined efforts to overcome these challenges.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the event, a collaborative effort between the Initiatives of Media Women (IMW) and the Embassy, brought together women journalists from Nepal and Bangladesh. During the event, Rana acknowledged the progress made by the media industry but stressed the need for further efforts to ensure it becomes more inclusive and progressive.
Nepal’s ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanashyam Bhandari, commended the role of women journalists in highlighting the stories of marginalized communities. He recognized their contributions as vital to raising awareness about the issues faced by these communities.
IMW Chair Laxmi Bhandari expressed hope that the event would strengthen the bond and friendship between female journalists from both countries. She noted that the challenges faced by women journalists in Nepal and Bangladesh are similar, indicating a shared struggle for equality in the profession.
Prof Dr Hosne Ara Begum, founder and executive director of Thengamara Mohila Sabuj Sangha (TMSS), emphasized the importance of continuing such interactions. She noted that these events are crucial for enhancing bilateral ties between Nepal and Bangladesh and should be held regularly.
More than 50 women journalists participated in the event, sharing their workplace challenges and calling for measures to address these issues.