Inheritance, Gender, And Environmental Dimensions of Land in Bangladesh: Societal Attitudes and Women’s Struggles for Equity

Abstract

Inheritance rights play a crucial role in ensuring economic stability and gender equality in society. In Bangladesh, women's inheritance rights are deeply influenced by religious laws, cultural traditions, and societal attitudes. While legal frameworks provide provisions for women's inheritance, socio-cultural factors often limit their practical implementation. Inheritance rights in Bangladesh remain a contested domain where women’s legal entitlements often conflict with entrenched societal attitudes and cultural norms. Despite constitutional guarantees and legal frameworks, gendered disparities in land and property inheritance persist, reinforced by patriarchal traditions, social stigma, and community pressures. This paper explores women’s perspectives on inheritance rights, focusing on how cultural expectations and societal resistance shape their ability to claim and exercise ownership. Drawing on environmental and socio-legal dimensions, the study highlights the intersection between inheritance disputes, access to land as a vital resource, and women’s empowerment in rural and urban contexts. It argues that women’s exclusion from inheritance not only perpetuates economic inequality but also limits their role in sustainable land management and environmental stewardship. By examining narratives of lived experiences, policy frameworks, and cultural barriers, the paper underscores the urgent need for transformative approaches that integrate gender justice, environmental sustainability, and legal reform. The findings suggest that shifting societal perceptions and fostering inclusive cultural practices are essential for ensuring equitable inheritance rights and enhancing women’s contributions to both family welfare and environmental resilience.