It remains opposed to a government order from September to amend the country’s maritime laws, enabling the employment of women on Bangladeshi ships.

Apparently, the government’s Department of Shipping is also towing the shipowners’ line by refusing to grant permission for nearly 35 women cadets to join the ranks of seafarers.

The department says female cadets have been denied permission because local culture, society and religious traditions do not favour women working onboard.

Currently,