YouthNet Global

Today, the YouthNet Barishal unit, in collaboration with the Department of Environment, conducted an awareness campaign at Chowmatha Bazar to tackle the harmful effects of polythene and plastic pollution. We distributed leaflets to market-goers, educating them about the environmental dangers of plastic and encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. YouthNet member, Sazid Mahamud, shared: "During our market monitoring, we noticed a positive shift in people's attitude towards alternatives to polythene. In the past, they would take our leaflets reluctantly, but today, they accepted them with smiles and engaging conversations. This is truly encouraging!" However, business owners raised an important question: “When will the alternatives to polythene be available?” Many sellers expressed that without viable alternatives, the use of polythene continues. Shoppers, too, expressed frustration: “Why isn’t there an alternative yet? If there were, these polythene bags wouldn't be in the market!” Although we addressed these concerns as best as we could, one thing is clear: people and businesses are ready for change, and they are waiting for practical alternatives to polythene. At YouthNet, we believe that through continued awareness and action, Barishal will gradually move towards a polythene- and plastic-free lifestyle, playing a vital role in protecting our environment.

Even after 3 and a half months of the devastating floods in Feni, #Bangladesh, the suffering of the affected people continues, and they are still unable to recover! The local administration had requested the national government for 20,000 bundles of corrugated iron sheets and 60 million taka in aid. But the actual help? Only 400 bundles of corrugated iron sheets and 1.2 million taka. The loss and damage are overwhelming, yet the response is grossly inadequate. When will the most affected people of Feni receive their rightful support, and when will the world take responsibility for the impacts of climate change? #feniflood2024 #ClimateJustice

Today, on the 20th birth anniversary of Sraban, we remember and honor his immense sacrifice. Srabon, a dedicated climate activist, YouthNet member, and environmental campaigner, gave his life for democracy, human rights, and the fight for a better future. Through his selfless act, he secured our right to speak and demonstrated the power of youth in challenging oppressive regimes. On August 4th, in Feni’s Mahipal, Sraban lost his life during a peaceful student protest. Wrapped in his mother’s red scarf, he was tragically shot while standing up for democracy and justice. The gunfire and violence at Mahipal Flyover remain etched in our memories, where nine lives were lost in the pursuit of a fair and just society. Sraban’s legacy continues to guide us in the fight for climate justice, renewable energy, and the protection of our environment. The dream of a society based on equality and justice that he and his fellow martyrs envisioned still fuels our determination. On his birth anniversary, we renew our commitment to his vision and pledge to continue his work towards a society free from inequality and injustice. We honor Srabon today, and his legacy will forever live on in our actions. Let us unite, inspired by Sraban’s courage and the spirit of the 2024 anti-discrimination student movement, and work together to build a just and equitable society. #Srabon #Democracy #ClimateJustice #YouthActivism #JustSociety #YouthNetGlobal

🇧🇩 Today, December 16th, we celebrate 54th Victory Day, a defining moment in Bangladesh's history. On this day in 1971, after nine months of relentless struggle and sacrifice, we secured our independence and laid the foundation for a sovereign and democratic nation. Youth: The Vanguard of Liberation and Democracy📣 In 1971, the youth of Bangladesh led the fight for freedom and justice. Their sacrifices not only achieved our independence but also shaped the democratic aspirations of our nation. Fifty-four years later, the youth of Bangladesh continue to lead, inspire, and transform. From tackling climate change and advocating for social justice to championing democracy and sustainability, today's young generation carries forward the legacy of courage and commitment. A Historical Reminder: The Students–People’s Uprising✊ The Students–People’s Uprising of 2024, also known as the July Revolution, marked a pivotal pro-democratic movement in Bangladesh. Born out of a demand for justice in job quotas, it became a nationwide call for change. The uprising brought an end to autocratic governance, ultimately leading to the establishment of a new interim government, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as chief adviser. This historic moment reminded us of the indomitable power of youth in shaping democracy and ensuring accountability in governance. Our Promise for the Future: Advocating for social justice and human rights. Fighting for climate action and sustainability. Promoting democratic governance and inclusive leadership. This Victory Day, we renew our commitment to democracy, equity, and progress. Let’s work together to build a nation where every voice is heard, where justice prevails, and where the dreams of 1971 are fulfilled. Happy Victory Day 2024! #VictoryDay #Democracy #Bangladesh #YouthNetGlobal #YouthLeadership

At the Global SDG Youth Summit 2024, YouthNet Global joined changemakers from around the world to address the critical intersections of gender inequality, adolescent health, and climate vulnerability. Our Executive Coordinator, Sohanur Rahman, joined as a panelist in a powerful session on "Health, Wellness, and Gender Equality," co-hosted by Wreetu, ARROW, and the Right Here Right Now - Bangladesh Platform. Sohanur highlighted how climate-vulnerable communities, especially in regions like Satkhira and Kurigram, face compounded challenges of gender inequality and limited access to essential health services. The session featured inspiring voices, including: Ranjeeta Silwal, Programme Manager at ARROW, who delivered the keynote address Dr. Mohammad Bellal Hossain, Professor at the University of Dhaka Tawhid Shiropa, Founder & CEO of Moner Bondhu Esrat Karim, Founder & Director of Amal Foundation The discussion was moderated by Umme Sharmin Kabir, Founder & Chair of Wreetu Health and Well-being Foundation. Together, we emphasized the importance of integrating mental health into SRHR programs, improving WASH facilities, and pushing for youth-led, community-driven solutions. Let’s continue to build a future where health, equality, and opportunity are rights for all. Young people are at the heart of this transformation! #YouthNetGlobal #SDGYouthSummit2024 #GenderEquality #YouthLeadership #ClimateJustice #AdolescentHealth

#Bangladesh has joined forces with vulnerable nations to urge the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to recognize climate change as a violation of international law. As the ICJ hearings enter their final week, this moment signifies a turning point for countries disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. Renowned human rights lawyer Payam Akhavan, representing Bangladesh and the Commission of Small Island States, delivered a powerful argument, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability from the world’s biggest polluters. Speaking on this landmark effort, Sohanur Rahman, climate justice advocate and Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, stated: "For decades, countries like Bangladesh have suffered from the reckless actions of the biggest polluters. This is a moment of hope and accountability—a chance for the world’s most vulnerable to demand justice for the losses we endure daily." With its low emissions but high climate vulnerability, Bangladesh’s participation highlights the severe inequities of the climate crisis. The ICJ's advisory opinion could redefine global responsibilities and pave the way for justice for climate-impacted nations. 💬 What are your thoughts on this historic effort to demand climate justice? #ClimateJustice #ICJHearings #Bangladesh #ClimateAction #LossAndDamage https://lnkd.in/gcjqycqE

Today, our delegation, led by Executive Coordinator Sohanur Rahman, had the privilege of meeting Farida Akter, Minister-ranked Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, during the Global Hunger Index 2025 Report Launching Event. Sohanur, who has been serving as the Youth Coordinator for the Civil Society Network Bangladesh of the Scaling Up Nutrition Movement since 2023, proudly represented the vibrant and impactful youth voices driving change. Farida Akter praised YouthNet Global’s youth-led initiatives on climate justice and nutrition, acknowledging the transformative role of young leaders in shaping a future rooted in equity and sustainability. During the event, we emphasized the critical intersections of nutrition, climate resilience, and gender justice, advocating for food systems and policies grounded in human rights obligations, equity, and international law. 🛠️⚖️ With participation from representatives of government, NGOs, UN agencies, civil society, and academia, the discussion explored innovative, sustainable solutions to address the pressing challenges of global hunger. 💡 Youth voices are at the forefront, championing fairness, accountability, and justice to reimagine a world where no one goes hungry and every step builds a resilient future. #GHI2024

Post #COP29: Urging Gender-Transformative Climate Actions in Bangladesh: On Sunday, a post-COP29 dialogue on gender and climate change was held in Dhaka, organized by Simavi , YouthNet Global, the Climate Communicators Community-Bangladesh, and International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD). The event brought together key stakeholders to explore actionable steps for advancing gender-transformative climate actions in Bangladesh. 📌 Key Highlights: Following COP29 in Baku, the extension of the Lima Gender Work Programme (LWPG) for another decade was celebrated, recognizing the critical role of men and boys in gender-responsive climate action. The dialogue focused on implementing Bangladesh's Climate Change and Gender Action Plan (ccGAP), submitted earlier this year, which prioritizes areas like women’s leadership, gender-responsive means of implementation, and capacity building. Experts emphasized aligning gender-responsive policies with locally-led actions to empower women and youth in the fight against climate change. YouthNet Global Executive Coordinator Sohanur Rahman highlighted: "Mobilizing and investing in youth- and women-led initiatives is critical for meaningful climate action. At the same time, we must strengthen the capacity of local actors to ensure sustainable efforts." Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, Deputy Head of Cooperation and First Secretary (Environment and Climate Change), Embassy of Sweden: "Gender equality at all levels is not just a goal; it is a necessity for effective climate action." She said, "Sweden supported updating the Climate Change Action Plan CCGAP which guides the integration of gender in key sectors such agriculture, water resources and food security, disaster risk reduction and management, social protection and local infrastructure development. We need more collaboration between the government and CSOs to ensure effective implementation." Participants stressed the importance of data-driven, evidence-based initiatives, local-level discussions, and collaboration between government and CSOs to ensure gender-responsive climate actions reach vulnerable communities. As we prepare for the upcoming 62nd Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) session in 2025, let’s continue championing gender justice in climate action for a sustainable future. 🌱 #ClimateAction #GenderJustice #COP29 #YouthLeadership #JustTransition #ClimateChange #Bangladesh #GenderEquality Jyotiraj Patra Marina Wutholen

Post #COP29: Urging Gender-Transformative Climate Actions in Bangladesh: On Sunday, a post-COP29 dialogue on gender and climate change was held in Dhaka, organized by Simavi , YouthNet Global, the Climate Communicators Community-Bangladesh, and International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD). The event brought together key stakeholders to explore actionable steps for advancing gender-transformative climate actions in Bangladesh. 📌 Key Highlights: Following COP29 in Baku, the extension of the Lima Gender Work Programme (LWPG) for another decade was celebrated, recognizing the critical role of men and boys in gender-responsive climate action. The dialogue focused on implementing Bangladesh's Climate Change and Gender Action Plan (ccGAP), submitted earlier this year, which prioritizes areas like women’s leadership, gender-responsive means of implementation, and capacity building. Experts emphasized aligning gender-responsive policies with locally-led actions to empower women and youth in the fight against climate change. YouthNet Global Executive Coordinator Sohanur Rahman highlighted: "Mobilizing and investing in youth- and women-led initiatives is critical for meaningful climate action. At the same time, we must strengthen the capacity of local actors to ensure sustainable efforts." Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, Deputy Head of Cooperation and First Secretary (Environment and Climate Change), Embassy of Sweden: "Gender equality at all levels is not just a goal; it is a necessity for effective climate action." She said, "Sweden supported updating the Climate Change Action Plan CCGAP which guides the integration of gender in key sectors such agriculture, water resources and food security, disaster risk reduction and management, social protection and local infrastructure development. We need more collaboration between the government and CSOs to ensure effective implementation." Participants stressed the importance of data-driven, evidence-based initiatives, local-level discussions, and collaboration between government and CSOs to ensure gender-responsive climate actions reach vulnerable communities. As we prepare for the upcoming 62nd Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) session in 2025, let’s continue championing gender justice in climate action for a sustainable future. 🌱 #ClimateAction #GenderJustice #COP29 #YouthLeadership #JustTransition #ClimateChange #Bangladesh #GenderEquality

Engaging Men and Boys to Prevent Gender-Based Violence: A special dialogue was held today in #Khulna city to address YouthNet Global role of engaging men and boys in preventing all forms of gender-based violence against women. The event was organized under the #EcoMen Project by YouthNet Global and the Bangladesh Environment and Development Society (BEDS) as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (November 25–December 10). The event emphasized the deep connection between women's rights, human rights, and environmental justice. Organizers highlighted that strategies effective in protecting the environment can also contribute to safeguarding women's rights. Media representatives shared their insights on advancing gender equality and their role in raising awareness. They called for collective efforts to create a positive change by involving men in the fight against gender-based violence. Speakers pointed out that, “Men’s active involvement is vital in combating violence against women. By fostering awareness among themselves and challenging negative social norms, men can become agents of change, paving the way for a more equitable society.” Additionally, participants underscored the media’s responsibility in bringing gender-based violence to the forefront and inspiring the public through awareness campaigns and impactful storytelling. The event was attended by EcoMen Khulna Coordinator Md. Saiful Alam Babu, Project Manager Md. Shamsur Rahman Shuvo, and facilitated by Shahin Siraj. Together, let’s promote gender justice and build a society free from violence! #16DaysOfActivism #EcoMen #GenderJustice #YouthNetGlobal