Take five: “When women are part of decision-making, they help ensure women's rights are at the heart of the work they do”

Author: Shararat Islam

Sarah Cooke, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh

Sarah Cooke has served as the British High Commissioner to Bangladesh since April 2023. Prior to this, she was Head of the South East Asia Department at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and previously held the role of Country Director for the Department for International Development in Bangladesh from 2012 to 2016. A committed advocate for gender equality, she has actively partnered with UN Women, including through her engagement in International Women’s Day and the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. What do you see as the top priorities to advance gender equality and women’s rights in Bangladesh?

As we mark 30 years of the Beijing Declaration, we celebrate progress and renew our commitment to gender equality. Bangladesh has made strides in women’s economic empowerment, education, and healthcare, but barriers remain.

Investing in women and girls, especially in economic empowerment, health, and education, is key. We also aim to end gender-based violence and child marriage, and ensure women have a voice in society and politics. This is essential for a stronger, more inclusive Bangladesh.

How is the UK’s commitment to women’s rights and gender equality being advanced in Bangladesh?

The UK is committed to putting women and girls at the heart of everything we do. Baroness Harriet Harman was recently appointed as Special Envoy for Women and Girls.

In Bangladesh, our development programmes focus on health, education, economic empowerment and climate resilience. We work to end gender-based violence and support women’s political participation.

We spotlight key moments like International Women’s Day and 16 Days of Activism, bringing together female leaders to share experiences.

We also support future women leaders through our Chevening Scholarships —75 per cent of this year’s scholars are women.

In your view, what approaches might be needed to address harmful social norms and discriminatory practices against women, girls, and gender-diverse people?

Raising awareness and engaging communities is vital. Supporting women and girls benefits the whole country.

Last year, a girl from our education programme became “Ambassador for a Day” and visited the High Commission. We also engaged her community on gender-based violence and child marriage. We work with government and civil society to influence legislation and policy changes and to ensure women’s voices are heard. We are engaging with women political leaders—because when women are part of decision-making, they help ensure women's rights are at the heart of the work they do.

As a woman serving as a High Commissioner, what does leadership mean to you and what difference have you seen when women are part of decision-making?

For a country to thrive, it must listen to 50 per cent of its population. Evidence shows that when women are involved in decision-making, outcomes are more inclusive.

As a woman leader in Bangladesh, I aim to create safe spaces for women to share their views and contribute. It’s important to listen to young women and encourage men to become allies and champions for gender equality.

Personally, leadership means supporting women in my team and those we work with—helping them play a key role in society.

What advice would you give to young women of Bangladesh who want to lead change in their communities?

Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you. I’ve been inspired by women breaking barriers—it’s given me confidence to pursue what I’m passionate about. 

Find allies and mentors who support your goals and stay true to your values. Being authentic and passionate will help you drive the change you want to see.