Dhaka, Bangladesh – As the world gears up for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP-29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, young leaders from Bangladesh have stepped forward in a proposals to tackle the climate crisis and seek financial support for climate-related losses. Climate change conference will place a significant emphasis on climate diplomacy, policy discussions, and enhancing resilience to climate change.
The proposals were unveiled during the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) 2024, held on October 9 at Hotel Sarina in Dhaka. Prior to the conference, a three-day residential training workshop took place from October 6 to 8 at the Global Platform Bangladesh in Gulshan, bringing together young climate activists, professionals, researchers, and policymakers for collaborative discussions. The workshop was organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).
In his keynote address, Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director General of the Department of Environment, announced that young climate activists would be included in the government delegation to COP-29. “In the new context of Bangladesh, young people have played a unique role. Their initiatives to combat climate change are particularly noteworthy. It is crucial for youth participation in international conferences, especially COP-29,” he stated.
Dr. Hamid also indicated plans for training on climate diplomacy and negotiation, aimed at empowering Bangladeshi youth to engage effectively on the global stage.
The event consisted of two main segments. The first featured the Young Negotiator Program on Climate Diplomacy, held from October 6-8, where 26 selected young leaders received training in climate diplomacy, policy formulation, and advocacy strategies.
In the second segment, on October 9, was a one-day conference attended by around 100 participants, including 50 young climate representatives, government officials, and international organization representatives.
The conference was enriched by plenary sessions, panel discussions, and various proposals from the youth. The “Stories of Change” segment highlighted initiatives from 13 youth organizations focused on environmental protection.
Organizers emphasized that the conference aligned with COP-29 and COY-19 to empower youth to take meaningful action in international climate discussions. Youth representatives submitted a “Youth Statement” to the Department of Environment, outlining their climate demands. The LCOY Bangladesh conference underscored the importance of cultivating young leadership in addressing climate challenges.
Strategic partners for LCOY 2024 included the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), ActionAid, VSO Bangladesh, the Youth Empowerment in Climate Action Platform (YECAP), and the Center for Climate Justice Bangladesh.
The Young Negotiator Program on Climate Diplomacy was highlighted as a key component of this year’s conference, also offering training on climate economics and justice.
In a bid to enhance gender equality within climate movements, women’s participation has seen a 10% increase this year. Recommendations from the Bangladesh Youth Statement 2024 will be discussed at COP-29 and COY-19, marking a significant contribution from Bangladeshi youth to global climate dialogue.
Prominent speakers at the conference included Khabirul Haque Kamal, Country Director of VSO Bangladesh; Mamunur Rashid, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change; and Rudaba Khandaker, Country Director of GAIN. They commended the innovative spirit and leadership of the participants and encouraged youth to play an active role in global climate discussions.
In closing remarks, Edwin Koyekoyek, First Counselor of the European Union’s Green Inclusive Development Team in Bangladesh, emphasized, “Climate negotiation is the most important negotiation because it reflects the perspectives of youth towards the world.”
