The project aims to empower marginalized women by improving transparency, accountability, and promoting the utilization of the Right to Information Act.

BM Desk:

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with The Carter Center and the Information Commission in Dhaka, announced the initiation of a new phase of the USAID-funded project, Advancing Women’s Right of Access to Information in Bangladesh (AWRTI) on Tuesday.

The Carter Center will oversee the implementation of this project across 10 districts until 2028, focusing on unlocking the human potential, particularly of marginalized women, to fully utilize the Right to Information Act of 2009, reads a press release.

Hillary Forden, interim director of the Rule of Law Program at The Carter Center, expressed gratitude for USAID’s continued support and highlighted the commitment to improving fundamental freedoms and rights for the most vulnerable.

The project aims to empower marginalized women by improving transparency, accountability, and promoting the utilization of the Right to Information Act, she added.

Reed J. Aeschliman, USAID’s Mission Director, emphasized the agency’s commitment to working with partners to empower marginalized women, enhance transparency, and foster accountability. He hopes the initiative will inspire citizens to utilize the law, contributing to the protection of critical democratic processes.

Since 2016, The Carter Center, with USAID support, has been at the forefront of AWRTI efforts in five districts, working at both national and local levels to increase access to information, address inequalities, and encourage women’s meaningful engagement in public life.

Chief Information Commissioner Abdul Malek acknowledged the progress made but highlighted ongoing obstacles for women in accessing vital information. He emphasized the societal importance of advancing women’s rights to access information, envisioning a Bangladesh where every woman can shape her destiny and contribute to the nation’s progress.

The new phase of AWRTI will focus on three interconnected objectives: strengthening the legal and policy environment for sustainable access to information for women, encouraging effective and equitable information provision by national and local governments in target districts, and equipping civil society organizations, information liaisons, and youth to assist women in utilizing their right to access information.

With improved access to information, women can make informed decisions about land use, agricultural practices, private enterprise, and education, contributing to their empowerment and societal progress.