Two-thirds of women in Bangladesh’s banking sector feel undervalued, citing inadequate training and guidance in their roles. A recent International Finance Corporation (IFC) survey across 20 private banks revealed stark gender disparities. Only 18% of the financial sector workforce in Bangladesh are women, contrasting sharply with over 40% in neighboring countries. At entry levels, women make up just 19% of bank employees, hindered by discriminatory hiring practices. Moreover, senior positions are largely inaccessible to them, with only 12% aspiring and 14% holding mid-level roles. Women’s representation on bank boards is a mere 14%, lower than in Nepal and Sri Lanka. Major obstacles identified include insufficient skills development opportunities and socio-cultural pressures, such as family responsibilities impacting careers. To address these challenges and promote gender equality, efforts must focus on increasing women’s recruitment at all levels, enhancing skill development, and accommodating family needs in workplace policies.
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