State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has called on the United Nations (UN) to strengthen humanitarian assistance and ensure greater participation by women in peacebuilding efforts amid escalating global crises and growing humanitarian challenges.

She made the call while addressing the 2026 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Humanitarian Affairs Segment at the United Nations in New York on Wednesday, according to a press release received here this morning.

Reaffirming Bangladesh's commitment to humanitarian principles, the state minister highlighted the country's ongoing initiatives to expand social protection programmes, strengthen disaster preparedness, empower women and support vulnerable communities under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

Speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), she underscored the vital role of women in sustaining peace and promoting reconciliation, while commending the contributions of Bangladeshi women peacekeepers serving in various UN missions.

The state minister expressed concern over the suffering of women and children affected by conflicts across different regions and stressed the need to bridge humanitarian financing gaps to ensure adequate support for affected populations.

She also called for continued international support for the safe, voluntary and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar.

As part of her engagements at the United Nations, Shama is scheduled to participate today in High-Level Panel Discussion-2 of the 2026 ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment.

She will also lead the Bangladesh delegation in a bilateral meeting with Sima Bahous, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, at the UN Headquarters in New York.