Dhaka, March 5 -- In the 13th National Parliamentary Election, the share of women candidates fell to only 3.93 per cent - the lowest in 25 years - sending a serious warning about the state of democratic progress in the country, speakers said at a dialogue on Thursday.

Structural barriers in the electoral system, rising gender-based violence and online harassment are restricting women's political leadership, they said.

Speakers voiced these concerns at a special dialogue and awards ceremony held in the capital on Thursday to mark International Women's Day 2026, according to a media release.

They stressed that ensuring women's empowerment requires more than opportunity; it also demands security, social dignity and greater state investmen...