Bangladeshi Sadia Haque named UN advocate for women in digital trade

Sadia Haque, a prominent development professional with roots in Bangladesh, has taken on the position of UN advocate for women in digital trade, a role reflecting the organization's commitment to gender equity in emerging economic sectors.

The appointment comes as policymakers across South and Southeast Asia increasingly recognize the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs and workers in digital commerce. E-commerce and digital trade platforms have emerged as significant drivers of economic growth in the region, yet women remain underrepresented in digital entrepreneurship and high-value digital roles.

Haque's mandate will focus on identifying barriers that prevent women from fully participating in digital trade activities and advocating for policy reforms to create more inclusive environments. The role encompasses work across multiple countries in the region, where digital economies are expanding rapidly but face persistent gender-based challenges.

The appointment reflects a broader United Nations initiative to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation are equitably distributed and that women have meaningful access to digital trade opportunities. Haque's experience in development work positions her to engage with governments, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organizations to advance this agenda.

As Bangladesh itself positions itself as a growing hub for digital startups and e-commerce activity, the appointment of a local advocate signals the importance of regional leadership in addressing these systemic challenges.