Bangladesh’s 2026 Election: Where Are the Women?

Bangladesh’s 2026 Election: Where Are the Women?

Out of 300 seats up for grabs in Bangladesh's general election, just seven women won election.

Bangladesh sees historic low of women in parliament

Despite promises of initiatives to empower women, Bangladesh elected the fewest number of female MPs in 25 years. One of the few new female MPs told DW that female candidates are systemically sidelined.

After a dictator, Bangladesh turns right

This article first appeared in Jamhoor. On February 12, 2026, Bangladesh held its first general election since overthrowing the authoritarian rule of Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League (AL) – an election widely believed to be a true democratic election in 17 years. Around 44% of the electorate were young (