Disability carers seek official recognition, allowances and policy support

Family members caring for persons with disabilities will call for formal recognition, financial allowances and stronger state support at an event marking International Carers Day 2026 in Dhaka tomorrow (8 November).

Organised by Carers Alliance Bangladesh under the theme “From Recognition to Action”, the event will be held at the SWID Convention Centre with support from Carers Worldwide, the Centre for Disability in Development (CDD), SWID Bangladesh and Action on Disability and Development (ADD) International.

According to a press release issued by Carers Alliance Bangladesh on Saturday (7 November), the programme will highlight the rights, challenges and needs of family members who provide long-term care and support to persons with disabilities.

The day’s activities will begin with a human chain and procession involving carers and caregivers at 12:30pm. The main programme will start at 3pm following prayers and refreshments.

Social Welfare Minister Professor Dr Abu Jafar Mohammad Zahid Hossain is scheduled to attend as the chief guest, while Social Welfare Secretary Dr Mohammad Abu Yusuf will be present as the special guest.

Other invited guests include Mohammad Kamruzzaman Dulal, executive secretary of the Bangladesh National Social Welfare Council; Shamima Ferdous, managing director of the NDD Protection Trust; and Shah Mohammad Mahbub, director general of the Department of Social Services.

Mahbubul Munir, president of Carers Alliance Bangladesh, will chair the event, while its Secretary General Md Mainul Islam will deliver the welcome address. Kulsom Begum, president of Savar Carers Association, will present the keynote paper.

Carers seek policy recognition and financial assistance

The organisers said family members caring for persons with disabilities often shoulder lifelong physical and emotional responsibilities, yet their contributions remain inadequately recognised and supported by society and the state.

The initiative seeks to bring their challenges and rights into greater public and policy focus, while raising awareness of the need for institutional support.

Key demands to be highlighted include formal recognition of carers, better access to information about existing laws and policies, the introduction of carer cards, financial allowances and national observance of International Carers Day.

Carers Alliance Bangladesh and CDD are also working to bring carers’ concerns to the attention of policymakers and strengthen their capacity to advocate for their rights.

The organisers expect the event to generate greater public awareness and encourage meaningful changes in policies and community attitudes towards the challenges faced by carers.

The programme will conclude with a cultural performance featuring carers.

Carers Worldwide, CDD, SWID Bangladesh and ADD International are providing overall support for the event.