GHRD celebrates international women's day with a conference in London

The status of women's rights in South Asia was highlighted during a conference organised by GHRD in Ilford, London, on the 7th March 2008. Jenny Lundström, GHRD Human Rights Officer, stated that, “Despite national legislation to protect women, rape continue to be a serious problem in Bangladesh, with the victims often unable to obtain justice.

Ms Lundström emphasised that: "Violence against women, including rapes, are reported every week, the youngest victim was a 3.5 year old girl. However, we need to be mindful that most rapes go unreported in Bangladesh, due to the social stigma associated with these kind of crimes.”

The opening speech at the conference was given by Sradhanand Sital, Chairman of GHRD. Mr Sital presented the history, mission and future plans for the organization, including starting a chapter in UK. He announced that Amitabh Soni would head the UK operations of GHRD. The conference was also attended by Mike Gapes, MP (South Ilford) and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee. Mr. Gapes emphasized upon the need of joint working between the government and the voluntary organizations like GHRD for the protection and preservation of Human Rights.

Jenny Lundström, gave an introduction to the human rights situation in countries where the GHRD is actively working i.e. (India (Jammu & Kashmir) ,Bhutan, Bangladesh). She highlighted the achievements of the human rights division, with particular focus on the Bangladesh campaign; Stop the gang rapes. Tristan turner, a musician by profession and the good will ambassador of the campaign Stop the gang rapes! expressed why he support GHRD and how he is using his music to contribute to the campaign. Mr Wim Monasso an independent philanthropic consultant with thirty years of professional experience in international development cooperation in the Asia/Pacific region gave his impartial expert views on the organization and explained why he has chosen to support GHRD. The vote of thanks was given by the Co- Chairman of the Interfaith Network UK ,Dr. Nawal Prinja.