Bangladesh Bank has directed all scheduled banks of the country to celebrate International Women's Day-2026 on Sunday, March 8 with due importance and dignity.

For this purpose, the banks have been asked to take necessary programs.

The Banking Regulation and Policy Department (BRPD) issued a circular in this regard from the central bank's head office on Thursday. The circular has been sent to the managing directors (MDs) and chief executive officers (CEOs) of all scheduled banks in the country.

The circular states that initiatives should be taken in the banking sector to celebrate the day properly in line with the preparations for celebrating International Women's Day at the national level under the leadership of the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs.

This year, the theme of International Women's Day has been set – “Today's steps, tomorrow's justice, let the rights of women and girls be protected.” Banks have been asked to highlight this theme in all their programs and promotional activities.

Bangladesh Bank said that this instruction has been given by exercising regulatory powers under Section 45 of the Banking Companies Act, 1991.

At the same time, banks have been asked to take all necessary measures to observe the day in line with the national program.