Rape in Bangladesh: A 2025 Overview

Introduction

Sexual violence remains a widespread issue in Bangladesh, with recent data showing a troubling rise in reported cases. Despite efforts by government and non-government organizations, the numbers indicate that significant challenges remain. This article examines the current state of rape incidents in Bangladesh, explores contributing factors, and highlights potential solutions to address this crisis.

Current Statistics on Rape in Bangladesh

As of February 2025, the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad reported that 205 women and girls faced violence in January alone, an increase from 163 cases in December 2024. Among these, 67 females—including 42 girls—were raped, while 20 were gang-raped. Tragically, one woman and one girl were murdered following the assault. Additionally, two others faced attempted rape.

Over the past five years, data from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) office recorded 26,695 rape cases nationwide. The annual breakdown is as follows:

• 2016: 4,331 cases
• 2017: 4,683 cases
• 2018: 4,695 cases
• 2019: 6,766 cases
• 2020: 6,220 cases (up to October)
• 2021: 6,341 cases
• 2022: 4,762 cases

These numbers reveal a significant surge in reported cases, particularly in 2019 and 2020. Although 2022 saw a slight decline, the figures remain alarmingly high.

Factors Contributing to Under-reporting

Despite these statistics, many cases of sexual violence go unreported due to various barriers:

1. Stigma and Victim-Blaming – Victims fear social judgment and exclusion, preventing them from speaking out.
2. Lack of Trust in Law Enforcement – Corrupt and insensitive officials often discourage victims from filing complaints.
3. Lengthy Legal Processes – Delays in investigations and trials exhaust victims seeking justice.
4. Pressure for Out-of-Court Settlements – Families and communities often coerce victims into informal settlements that favor perpetrators.

Legal Framework and Challenges about Rape in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has legal provisions to address sexual violence, but several issues hinder effective enforcement:

• Definition of Rape – The current law excludes certain forms of sexual assault and does not recognize marital rape.
• Trial Delays – The Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, 2000, mandates rape trials be completed within 180 days, but courts rarely meet this deadline. A Supreme Court study found that over 38,000 cases of violence against women and children have been pending for more than five years.
• Low Conviction Rates – Unofficial estimates suggest that between 2002 and 2016, only 3% of rape cases resulted in convictions. This low rate reflects deep flaws in the legal system.

Barriers to accessing justice for rape survivors in Bangladesh remain a significant issue due to flaws within the criminal justice system. Corrupt law enforcement officials, police reluctance to register cases, and prolonged delays in investigations and trials contribute to the low conviction rate, which is estimated to be just 3%. Survivors, particularly those from marginalized communities, also face pressure from families and local leaders to settle cases outside the legal system. Although the law mandates that rape trials conclude within 180 days, most cases experience severe backlogs, with over 38,000 pending for more than five years in special tribunals. Additionally, despite the High Court banning the degrading “two-finger test” in 2018, concerns persist about its continued use. These systemic failures underscore the urgent need for legal reforms, strict enforcement of existing laws, and greater accountability within the justice system to ensure timely and fair justice for survivors.

Societal Attitudes and Media Influence

Deep-rooted patriarchy and victim-blaming contribute to a culture where sexual violence is dismissed or justified. Films and television often reinforce harmful stereotypes, normalizing misogyny. However, responsible media can reshape public perception and advocate for victims’ rights.

Steps Toward Change

Combating sexual violence requires a comprehensive approach:

1. Comprehensive Sex Education – Schools should teach gender equality, consent, and bodily autonomy.
2. Legal Reforms – Laws must define rape more broadly and recognize marital rape as a crime.
3. Strengthening Law Enforcement – Police and judicial officials need training to handle sexual violence cases sensitively and efficiently.
4. Support Systems for Victims – Survivors require access to counseling, legal aid, and safe shelters.
5. Public Awareness Campaigns – Media must challenge victim-blaming and promote a culture of respect and consent.

Conclusion about Rape in Bangladesh

The rising cases of rape in Bangladesh result from societal, legal, and systemic failures. While statistics highlight the severity of the issue, they also stress the urgency for reform. By addressing root causes and implementing targeted interventions, Bangladesh can work toward a society free from sexual violence.

1. Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) – Providing legal support for survivors of gender-based violence: https://www.blast.org.bd
2. UN Women – Ending Violence Against Women in Bangladesh – Insights on policies and initiatives: https://www.unwomen.org/en/where-we-are/asia-and-the-pacific/bangladesh

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Rape in Bangladesh

Q1: What are the latest statistics on rape in Bangladesh?
As of January 2025, 205 women and girls faced violence, including 67 reported rapes and 20 gang rapes.

Q2: Why do many rape cases in Bangladesh go unreported?
Stigma, victim-blaming, distrust in law enforcement, prolonged legal procedures, and pressure for informal settlements discourage victims from filing complaints.

Q3: What legal challenges hinder justice for rape survivors?
Challenges include a narrow legal definition of rape, delayed trials, and a low conviction rate.

Q4: How can society change its attitude toward rape?
Comprehensive sex education, awareness campaigns, and responsible media representation can challenge harmful stereotypes and promote gender equality.