Bonhishikha, in partnership with Plan International Bangladesh, conducted a Gender, Age, and Inclusion Analysis to understand existing inequalities within families of sponsored children and their impact on children, adolescents, and youth. The study covered Kurigram, Bhola, and Dhaka, exploring gender and age-based integration across three thematic areas: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Skills and Opportunities for Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship (SOYEE), and Child and Youth Leadership.
What We Found:
Findings revealed persistent gender and social inequalities influenced by religion, poverty, and social norms. Girls’ access to education and leadership opportunities is limited by early marriage and patriarchal decision-making, where male family members dominate authority. Sexual and gender-based violence, harassment, and stigma further restrict girls’ mobility and self-esteem, particularly after marriage. The study underscores the need for inclusive, gender-transformative programming to strengthen children’s and adolescents’ agency within families and communities.