By
Md. Nipun Afridi and Takia Islam Toma
This report presents findings from an interactive consultation with women engaged in sex work (WESW) and people living with HIV (PLHIV), conducted to inform the revision of Bangladesh’s National Social Security Strategy (NSSS). While the country’s social protection system is extensive and designed to be inclusive, participants highlighted persistent barriers to access.
Key challenges include lack of identity documentation, rigid eligibility criteria, limited awareness of programmes, and service delivery models that do not reflect the realities of marginalized populations. Stigma and discrimination further restrict access to healthcare, employment, and social services. Participants also noted gaps in mental health support, geographic coverage of services, and coordination among implementing agencies.
The report underscores the need for a more inclusive and responsive system, with flexible targeting, improved service access, strengthened coordination, and stigma-sensitive approaches to ensure equitable social protection for all.
