The United Nations on Wednesday called on all stakeholders, including political leaders and their parties and supporters, to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to intimidation, harassment and any other form of violence against women during Bangladesh’s 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections scheduled for today.

In a press release, the UN also said, ‘This applies equally to women candidates and voters, whose participation and safety are essential to inclusive democratic processes.’

The release was issued by the UN resident coordinator’s office in Bangladesh on Wednesday.

It also reads that the UN underscores that safe, inclusive and meaningful participation in public life is a fundamental right.

‘This includes the rights of all women and girls, including women with disabilities, women from minority communities, gender diverse people, and others who may face heightened barriers, discrimination or gender-based violence,’ the release said.

As per the release, the UN notes concerns raised by women’s groups and civil society organisations on violence and harassment of women candidates and voters, including digital violence.

Women in public life, including political leaders, activists, journalists, and human rights defenders, are reporting increased incidents of cyberbullying, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and image-based abuse, including AI-altered and sexualised content, it said.

‘It is essential that all voters, including women, can participate as candidates and voters without intimidation, discrimination, online abuse or fear of reprisals,’ it further said.

The release also said, ‘We are confident that authorities will continue to take steps to uphold security and the rule of law, and to ensure the safety and rights of every individual.’

The UN is supporting the Bangladesh Election Commission to boost women’s electoral participation and representation, the release added.