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Baha'i Office for the Advancement of Women
Mrs Shirin Fozdar was one of the pioneers in the field of women’s
rights in Singapore. An outspoken champion of women, she was
instrumental in founding the Singapore Council of Women in 1952
which campaigned actively against polygamous marriage. Mrs Fozdar
fought courageously for women’s rights, and her efforts, together
with that of the Singapore Council of Women, paved the way for
the legislation of the Women’s Charter in 1961.
Her example continues to inspire the Baha’i Office for the
Advancement of Women (BOAW). The BOAW is an affiliate of the
Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO). It is
committed to improving family life, promoting the entrance of
women into all arenas of human endeavour and enhancing the
partnership between women and men. The BOAW has participated
in regional and international conferences on women, held an
art exhibition to increase awareness of the environment, jointly
published a comprehensive book tracing the history of the women’s
movement in Singapore, and organised regular social and health care
projects. The BOAW now has an office in the SCWO Building on
Waterloo Street.
