Dhaka firm to eliminate violence against women

"Bangladesh was among the first few countries to ratify the protocol of Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)," she said while addressing the 31st session of the CEDAW at the United Nations here on Saturday.

Khurshid Jahan said the government is determined to eliminate all forms of violence against women.

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"There are different laws and acts in the country to combat all sorts of violence against women," she added.

The minister said Bangladesh has received global appreciation for attaining outstanding success in reducing poverty, empowering women and ensuring education, health and nutrition facilities for all.

She said the government made a heavy investment in women's education, making primary education compulsory and free for girls up to 12th grade.

Quoting World Bank report of May 2004, she said nearly 73 percent girls of 11-15 years and 80 percent of 6-10 years are enrolled in the secondary and primary schools respectively, which is one of the highest in any developing countries.

Referring to the HIV/Aids situation in Bangladesh, the minister said the prevalence of this killer disease is still very low compared to many Asian countries.

But, she said, there is a consensus at the national level leadership that the low prevalence of HIV/Aids should not relegate the issue to a low priority.