Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, in a televised address to the nation on February 16, 2026, emphasized that a society can only progress when women are safe, respected, and enjoy equal rights. He stated that sustainable development depends on women’s equal participation in decision-making, the economy, education, and leadership. Yunus highlighted that the vision of a new Bangladesh cannot be realized without women’s advancement.

He announced that several laws had been amended, including the Sexual Harassment Prevention Ordinance, the Domestic Violence Prevention Ordinance, and the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, to strengthen protection for women and children. These reforms aim to ensure safety and prevent harassment in workplaces and educational institutions.

Referring to the recently held referendum, Yunus described it as a festive and historic event. He congratulated both the winners and the defeated candidates, calling victory and defeat the beauty of democracy. He noted that both sides received nearly half of the total votes and confirmed that a new government would soon take office, marking the end of the caretaker administration’s 18-month tenure.