Rajshahi: A photography exhibition has been launched here to mark the celebration of fatherhood, challenging traditional gender stereotypes and highlighting the evolving role of fathers in families and communities. The weeklong event titled “Bangladeshi and Swedish Baba” was inaugurated at the open stage on the bank of the River Padma on Saturday afternoon featuring 23 captivating photographs of selected Bangladeshi fathers showcasing their role as active caregivers involved in their children’s lives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Embassy of Sweden in Bangladesh is hosting the exhibition in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and UN Women. This initiative aims to challenge traditional gender stereotypes by highlighting the evolving role of fathers in families and communities. Key figures such as the Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh Stefan Liller, its Story Teller Sadia Rahman, Head of Mission and Head of Development Corporation of the Swedish Embassy Maria Strideman, and Chief Community Development Officer Azizur Rahman addressed the inaugural ceremony.
Primarily, this exhibition aims to promote meaningful dialogue around parenting practices, gender equality, and work-life balance. It also seeks to inspire different approaches to parenting and gender roles by showcasing stories that challenge traditional perceptions of fatherhood and highlight the positive impacts of engaged fathers.
Addressing the opening ceremony, UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller stated that the exhibition provides a platform for sparking meaningful dialogue about the evolving role of fathers in both the family and society. He emphasized the need to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and highlight the contributions of fathers as active caregivers. “We hope this exhibition will inspire fathers to reflect on their role in shaping family life, promote a rethinking of modern fatherhood, and encourage new, more equitable approaches to parenting and gender equality,” he added.
Maria Strideman also mentioned that the exhibition challenges established societal norms, aiming to inspire more inclusive parenting practices and deepen discussions on gender equality, which is a key priority for the UNDP.