The United Nations has called on Bangladesh’s interim government to guarantee the safe, inclusive, and meaningful participation of women in the country’s 13th national parliamentary election and referendum scheduled for February 12. The appeal was made in a statement issued by the UN office in Bangladesh on Wednesday, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of women and gender-diverse individuals who face higher risks of violence and barriers to participation.

The statement noted a rise in cyberbullying, deepfakes, planned harassment, and misuse of altered or sexually suggestive content created with artificial intelligence targeting women politicians, journalists, and human rights defenders. The UN urged all political leaders, parties, and supporters to prevent any form of intimidation, harassment, or violence against women during the electoral process, stressing that the safety and participation of female candidates and voters are vital for an inclusive democratic process.

The UN expressed confidence that the Bangladesh government would continue efforts to uphold security, the rule of law, and individual rights, reaffirming its commitment to support the government in ensuring safety and protection for all.