Dhaka: Bangladeshi journalist Nadia Sharmeen has vowed to work together with other women across the globe to create a better world, bringing justice to and ending violence against women.

‘So, let’s get together, step forward, and create a better world. Let’s create a revolution, a new revolution,’ she said while receiving International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award at a ceremony held at the US Department of State in Washington, DC on Friday.

Sharmeen, a crime reporter at Ekattor TV and women’s rights advocate, said together they can be a great force that can bring justice, end the violence, and change the world.

‘So, today we would like to promise you all that we continue our battle against every injustice and every step that takes us away from the peace of the world, and even at the cost of our lives,’ she added.  

Despite intense criticisms, constant threats and dangers, Sharmeen said, they have to win the battle of truth and justice and establish their rights. ‘It’s true that the mentor, the person who starts the battle suffers the most, so we being the women in front of the row against all the injustice struggled a lot and also suffered a lot.’

Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues Catherine M Russell and Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Heather Higginbottom were also present.  

Ambassador Russell said, ‘And as Nadia said, we stand with you and we stand behind you as you do amazingly courageous things, and we are so grateful for what you’re doing.’

The award was established in 2007 and it honors women around the globe who have exemplified exceptional courage and leadership.  

‘Over the years, we’ve recognized champions who advocate for human rights, leaders who advance equality for women and girls, and activists who work tirelessly for social progress, often at great personal risk,’ Russell said.

Higginbottom said these honorees demonstrate to them what is possible when women stand up for their rights and freedoms, but they also demonstrate that they have a long road still to travel to achieve justice and equality for all.