United Nations in Bangladesh

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Bangladesh:

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Speech

03 November 2024

"The efforts over the past 50 years have helped to build Bangladesh, to place it firmly on the multilateral stage, and to move ahead" - Ms. Gwyn Lewis

Thank you for joining us for the launch of the exhibition “A Promise for Future Generations: 50 years of Bangladesh in the United Nations”, held on the occasion of UN Day 2024. It is a great pleasure to welcome you all this evening to the new UN House, which will become Dhaka HQ for 12 UN entities starting this December. The images in this exhibition date back to the early 1970s when the UN first came to the assistance of refugees fleeing the former East Pakistan, all the way through to the momentous events of 2024. With photo contributions from the official UN archive, from UN entities working in Bangladesh, and from the image library of Drik Gallery, we have sought to tell two intertwined stories: the growth of Bangladesh as a UN member state across five decades; and the role that the UN has played to support the people of Bangladesh over the same period. The exhibition includes images of Bangladeshi peacekeepers deployed to UN missions overseas, and a series of moving photos depicting the generosity that Bangladesh has shown to the Rohingya people. You will note that the title of the exhibition is forward looking.More than anything, the partnership between the UN and Bangladesh is an investment for future generations. The official anniversary of Bangladesh joining the UN as a member state fell on 17 September this year, just a few days before the Summit of the Future took place in New York. The outcome documents of the Summit, including the Pact for the Future and the annex “Declaration for Future Generations”, chart a revived multilateral course. In looking towards our next decade of partnership, the UN and Bangladesh together have a duty to today’s young people and children to continue to work towards achieving the vision of the Summit. We just farewelled the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, who visited Bangladesh this week. In his remarks to students at Dhaka University on Tuesday, he said it is young people who have led the way to the “historic opportunity” that Bangladesh now has before it. The High Commissioner said that it is young people who give him hope for the future. In preparing these remarks tonight, I wanted to share some thoughts from the young UN staff in my own office. When asked to reflect on their experiences working for the UN in Bangladesh, they speak of pride in being part of an organization dedicated to the progress and empowerment of the Bangladeshi people, particularly women and children. They describe the UN-Bangladesh partnership as a source of hope and energy, driving progress towards a prosperous and equitable Bangladesh. They speak of the privilege of engaging deeply with this country's development coordination landscape. We are proud to mark this UN Day in solidarity with the men and women, young people, girls and boys of Bangladesh. The efforts over the past 50 years have helped to build this country, to place it firmly on the multilateral stage, and to move ahead in leaps and bounds towards the Sustainable Development Goals. And it is to the youth of Bangladesh that we would like to dedicate this exhibition because it is their vision that we are duty bound to take forward. I would like to thank the colleagues from across the UN agencies who have worked to pull together this wonderful display under the stewardship of Dr. Shahidul Alam and the dedicated team at Drik Gallery. Thank you to the Additional Secretary for being here as our Chief Guest and to all of you for joining us. Congratulations to the Interim Government on the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh in the United Nations, and happy UN Day to all!

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Press Release

05 November 2024

Establishing a quality care system in Bangladesh is a cornerstone for gender equality and social justice

Salma*, a young garment worker moved to Dhaka from Comilla along with her partner four years ago and they have an eight-month-old son now. They both found work in the same factory. The factory provided maternity leave and benefits during the birth of their child, and Salma returned to work after two months leave. She initially put her son in the daycare facility in the factory. With two breastfeeding breaks during work, Salma was able to ensure her child was exclusively breastfed for six months. While the daycare facility was free of charge, commuting with a young child was challenging. She recently opted for home-based childcare in her neighbourhood, leaving her son in the care of a woman until they return home from work. This service alone costs them BDT 4,000 per month, a significant portion of the family’s expenses given their combined monthly household income is BDT 35,000.Shafiq* is a sales manager in a pharmaceutical company, and lives in Dhaka with his family, including his aged mother who needs support with her daily activities. Although his wife, Shefa*, is an accounting graduate from the University of Dhaka, both Shafiq and Shefa decided that Shefa would leave her bank job to take care of Shafiq’s mother. Shefa hopes to return to her job someday. However, taking care of Shafiq’s mother remains a priority for the family at present.Rahmat* and Rehana* migrated from Mymensingh in search of work, and now live in Dhaka with their three daughters aged eight, six and two years. Rehana is a domestic worker, while Rahmat is a rickshaw puller. Rehana’s eldest daughter is yet to start school, as she must look after her two younger siblings, while her parents work. While Rahmat and Rehana would like to send their daughters to school someday soon, they are currently unable to find an arrangement to look after the youngest, so all three girls stay home. These are some stories of working Bangladeshi families highlighting challenges related to the absence of a comprehensive care system. With the changes in the nature of work, migration, inflation and climate change, the care arrangements of the past that heavily rely on families are no longer appropriate for today’s world of work. While Bangladesh continues to promote women’s economic participation, traditional approaches to care hinging on women as the primary caregivers in families remain prevalent. This limits women’s opportunities to get an education and skills required to establish their own businesses or enter and remain in workforce and contribute to the national economy. The country’s women’s participation rate in the labour force is low at 21.25 per cent.While new care solutions are being introduced by communities and entrepreneurs, their cost render them inaccessible to most families. The current care system needs to be reformed to ensure better supply, assured quality, accessibility and affordability for all. The government provides some child, elderly and disability care services but their reach is limited . For example, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs is currently running some 63 public funded childcare centres across the country. Further, the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 makes legal provisions for employers to ensure workplaces have childcare facilities, either on-site or off-site. A comprehensive care system would bring together people, institutions, and resources, both public and private, to deliver childcare, elderly care, healthcare, employment injury and rehabilitation support, and assistance for persons with disabilities and special needs. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) Workers with Family Responsibilities Convention, 1981 (No 156) recognises the role of state, employers and workers organisations in providing care services to improve the quality of life of the workers, including their choice of productive work and employment. It highlights the importance of meaningful engagement of workers and their communities when planning and creating care-related solutions to ensure that they are efficient, accessible and truly cater to users’ needs. Professionalization of care work is essential for providing quality services. Currently, most care occupations and workers are not recognised in law as workers. This maintains informality, produces poor working conditions and provides limited opportunities for skills development and career advancement. Standardisation of care work and organising the care workforce to ensure that their voices are heard and incorporated when designing decent and dignified working conditions in care occupations is needed. Going forwards, the government, the private sector and workers need to establish together a roadmap for change so that the current care burden on women can be reduced through development of a care system that can serve the needs for a growing economy and social protection for all in Bangladesh. * Not their real namesThis Op-Ed was first published in The Daily Star on the International Day of Care and Support.

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Press Release

30 August 2024

Seven years since the Rohingya refugee influx in Bangladesh, UNHCR reminds need for international solidarity

As we mark seven years since the large-scale Rohingya refugee arrival, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, once again calls for sustained commitment from international partners to support the protection of nearly one million Rohingya hosted by Bangladesh, and to help secure solutions for a lasting end to their plight. On 25 August 2017, some 700,000 Rohingya men, women and children were forced to flee Myanmar and seek protection in Bangladesh, joining those who had fled in previous years. The generosity by the Government and the people of Bangladesh in providing the Rohingya temporary refuge was supported by the international community and has been critical in meeting the refugees’ protection and basic needs, alongside assistance provided to local hosting communities. But in recent months security issues and funding uncertainties undermine all but the most critical and lifesaving assistance. In Myanmar’s Rakhine state, the escalated conflict has only worsened conditions for the Rohingya. Many remain stateless with limited access to higher education and jobs, and vulnerable to violence. Yet refugees in Bangladesh continue to say that they long to return to their homes and villages when it is safe to do so. A dignified and sustainable return to Myanmar remains the primary solution to this crisis. We call on the international community to demonstrate the political will to make this possible.We also call on the Bangladesh authorities to ensure that civilians fleeing the violence in Myanmar be allowed access to protection in Bangladesh.Like all of us, the Rohingya aspire for better futures, not determined by religion, race, or the socio-economic conditions of their birth. In Cox’s Bazar and on Bhasan Char, 52 per cent of the refugee population are under 18 years old, many of them born in asylum or having spent their first years in refugee camps. With meaningful support and opportunities, they are capable of immense achievement. We must invest in Rohingya children, youth, women and girls, empowering them to lift their own communities. Through partnership and collective action, we can counter the harmful impacts of generations of violence and deprivation, including the harm caused by exploitative organized groups who prey on vulnerable youth in the camps.Already, thousands of Rohingya have taken positively to trainings and responsibilities to support critical services in the camps, including legal counseling, mental health, community health work, operation and maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure, shelter repair, as well as serving as first responders to weather and fire incidents. Enhancing resilience through skills, education and livelihoods programmes is critical to helping the refugees to stand on their own feet and move beyond aid dependency. UNHCR calls on stakeholders to continue their support for refugees’ self-reliance.In 2024, humanitarian agencies have appealed for $852 million to assist 1.35 million people, including Rohingya refugees and hosting Bangladeshi communities. We urge donors and private actors to step up their funding to the Rohingya response. The Rohingya people deserve our best, as do the generous people of Bangladesh who cannot be left to shoulder this crisis alone.FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Shari Yasmin Nijman; nijman@unhcr.org

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Press Release

13 September 2024

IFAD’s new Country Director for Bangladesh reassures continuous support in transforming rural economy

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) remains deeply committed to improving the lives and livelihoods of rural communities by boosting agricultural productivity, increasing rural incomes, and empowering smallholders and farmers, women, and youth, said Dr Valantine Achancho, IFAD's newly appointed Country Director for Bangladesh.“Bangladesh has incredible potential for agriculture and transforming rural communities. I am excited to collaborate with the government, our partners, and local communities to strengthen agricultural systems and improve lives nationwide. By working together, we can create sustainable growth and give smallholder farmers the support they need to overcome challenges and thrive,” said Achancho while presenting his credentials to Md Touhid Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Government of Bangladesh on Wednesday.Before coming to Bangladesh, Achancho served as IFAD Country Director and Representative for the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo from 2020 to 2024 and has previously held the same position for Niger, Burkina Faso, and Chad. He also served as IFAD Country Programme Officer for Cameroon and Gabon, and Programme Officer for the Indian Ocean region, contributing to rural development projects in the Sahel and Congo basin, mobilising co-financing, and strengthening partnerships with governments, donors, and civil society to improve rural livelihoods.In his new role as Country Director for Bangladesh, Achancho will be advocating for and enhancing national government programmes that strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable rural communities through infrastructure and climate-smart agriculture, while enhancing access to finance, technology, and markets for smallholders and marginalized groups to diversify the economy and create rural jobs.“I am dedicated to collaborating with our partners to empower rural communities, enabling them to adapt to climate change, tackle economic challenges, and build sustainable livelihoods for long-term resilience,” says Achancho.Before joining IFAD in 2011, Achancho was deputy director of farmers’ professional organizations and cooperative movement, and senior engineer in charge of prospective analysis and agricultural policies in the Ministry of Agriculture in Cameroon. His earlier positions include national coordinator for Agence Française de Développement (AFD) funded project, visiting lecturer at the Faculty of Agronomy of the University of Dschang in Cameroon, and consultant for IFAD, the Word Bank and European Union operations. He holds a PhD in Sociology for Development from the Paris Institute of Technology for Life, Food and Environmental Sciences.Since 1978, IFAD has supported the Government of Bangladesh in its ambitious rural development goals. Over the past 45 years, IFAD has supported 37 projects, mobilizing USD 3.9 billion in financing, to improve the lives and livelihoods of more than 11 million families.Today, IFAD’s programme in Bangladesh is one of its largest. Currently, IFAD has an investment of USD 519 million in Bangladesh, distributed across six ongoing projects implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, the Local Government Engineering Department, the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation, and the Bangladesh Water Development Board. Media Contact: Farhana Urmee, f.urmee@IFAD.org

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Press Release

30 August 2024

Two million children at risk as worst floods in three decades lash through eastern Bangladesh

DHAKA, 30 August 2024 – Over two million children in eastern Bangladesh are at risk as floods sweep through homes, schools and villages, UNICEF has warned. In all, these floods, the worst in eastern Bangladesh in 34 years, have affected 5.6 million people.Major rivers in the southeast are overflowing due to unprecedented monsoon rains. As a result, more than 52 people have been reported dead. Over 500,000 people are seeking shelter, after rising waters from swollen rivers submerged homes, streets and fields in Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions. Millions of children and families are stranded without food and emergency relief supplies. Government personnel and volunteers are conducting rescue operations, though access remains difficult in some areas. In the coming days, more people will be affected as the monsoon season continues.“The devastating floods in the eastern parts of Bangladesh are a tragic reminder of the relentless impact of extreme weather events and the climate crisis on children. Far too many children have lost loved ones, their homes, schools, and now are completely destitute,” said Emma Brigham, Deputy Representative of UNICEF Bangladesh. “UNICEF is on the frontlines providing water purification tablets, oral rehydration salts and other essential supplies, but more funds are needed to reach these children and prevent an even more devastating impact on their futures.”UNICEF has been on the ground since the onset of the disaster. Having joined an initial assessment mission with the Advisor to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Hasan Arif, UNICEF with its partners has reached over 338,000 people, including 130,000 children, with life-saving supplies such as 3.6 million water purification tablets, 25,000 jerry-cans to store water and over 250,000 oral rehydration salt sachets.But much more is needed. People and children urgently require cash assistance, safe drinking water, hygiene kits, emergency latrines, sanitary pads, oral rehydration salts and emergency life-saving medicines. Primary healthcare services to treat sick newborns and children and help pregnant women to give birth must be restored immediately.The recent floods come close on the heels of the floods in north Bangladesh and Cyclone Remal in May. Jointly, the three emergencies have impacted over 13 million people across Bangladesh, including 5 million children.In response to these three emergencies, UNICEF urgently requires up to US$35.3 million for critical, life-saving, and multi-sectoral interventions for children, as well as pregnant and lactating women.Climate change increases the frequency, severity and unpredictability of cyclones, floods and other extreme weather events affecting Bangladesh, underscoring that the climate crisis is fundamentally a child rights crisis. According to the UNICEF Children’s Climate Risk Index, children in Bangladesh are the most exposed in the world to climate and environmental hazards.Globally, UNICEF addresses the climate crisis to:a) protect the lives, health and well-being of children;b) empower every child to become a champion for the environment; andc) reduce the emissions and environmental footprint.“Year on year, the lives of millions of children in Bangladesh are being ravaged by floods, heatwaves and cyclones. Climate change is clearly changing children’s lives,” adds Brigham. “We call on global leaders to act urgently, and take strong measures to mitigate the effects of climate change, before it is too late for children.” For more information, please contact: Faria Selim; Communication Specialist, UNICEF Bangladesh; fselim@unicef.org

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Story

12 November 2025

Shahana: An Edutainment Cartoon Promoting Life Skills for Bangladesh’s Adolescents

Dhaka, Bangladesh - For nearly a decade, Shahana - an animated edutainment series developed by UNFPA Bangladesh with the leadership of the Department of Secondary and Higher Education and in consultation with the National Curriculum and Textbook Board - has helped young people across Bangladesh talk openly about subjects that are too often whispered about, if mentioned at all. Through three series (plus COVID-19 specials), Shahana brings age-appropriate, values-based lessons on sexual and reproductive health, consent, child marriage prevention, cyber safety, emotional wellbeing, and conflict resolution into classrooms and homes, using relatable characters and stories that reflect real life. From the start, the goal was simple and bold: equip adolescents with accurate information and practical skills so they can make healthy, informed choices. Series I (2015), produced under UNFPA’s Generation Breakthrough initiative, introduced Shahana and her friends and tackled foundational issues like puberty, child marriage, gender discrimination, and harassment. In 2018, Series II deepened the learning with four episodes - Truth or Dare, The Beauty of Diversity, Magic Box, and Knowledge is Power - and was launched by the Ministry of Education. Crucially, the series became a teaching aid incorporated into the curriculum and screened across 33,000 government secondary schools and madrasas, normalizing critical conversations at scale. Series III moved into timely topics such as conflict management, consent/non-consent and respect, emotional management, and cyber security, reflecting adolescents’ evolving needs online and offline.“In our society, even now, my younger sisters are married off before they turn 18. In the cartoon we see that a child dies, and the husband sends his wife back. If the father is poor, he cannot bear the cost,” a ninth-grade boy reflected after watching six episodes of Shahana in school. “At this age, teenagers, both girls and boys, need to be aware of menstruation as it is very important,” added his classmates. Another student noted how the series “normalized” puberty, removing shame by naming natural processes and showing how families can talk about them.Teachers see the difference too. As one assistant headmaster in Noakhali put it: “Many of the shyness and awkwardness they had about these issues will now be gone.”Parents also embraced Shahana. Shimu Akhter, who watched with her son and daughter, said the cartoon bridged generational silence she grew up with. “I felt so good because I also learned, and my son learned as well. My daughter is growing up, and I understood that I should not treat her the way my mother and grandmother treated me,” Shimu shared. By modeling respectful dialogue and accurate information, the series turned potentially sensitive topics into family learning moments, which comprehensive sexuality education aims to achieve.Shahana’s storytelling power lies in its mix of empathy and realism. Students recall an episode where a 13-year-old girl, Hafiza, is married and becomes pregnant at 14, developing obstetric fistula and losing her baby, a narrative that underscores the health and social harms of child marriage. Others point to episodes where adolescents form clubs, mobilize peers, and even creatively stop a child marriage.The series also responds to urgent contexts. During the pandemic, three COVID-19 specials addressed adolescents’ mental and physical health, encouraged help-seeking, and guided viewers to services. The edutainment initiative was recognized by the government at the highest level and Shahana continues to reach audiences online, where the growing viewership complements its vast school-based footprint. Most importantly, Shahana demonstrates that comprehensive sexuality education is not just about “biology”. It is about values, safety, respect, and life skills. It shows boys and girls learning together, confronting harassment, building self-reliance, supporting parents, and practicing consent.As one student summed it up after a school competition: “The Shahana cartoon not only entertains us but also provides valuable lessons that are necessary for our lives. We would love to see more episodes.” That enthusiasm is the best evidence that learning can be both accurate and joyful, and that Shahana is helping a new generation in Bangladesh grow up healthy, confident, and informed.Watch a recent feature video on ShahanaWatch Shahana seriesShahana: An Edutainment Cartoon Promoting Life Skills for Bangladesh’s Adolescents

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12 November 2025

A New Beginning for Mothers in Dhaka Mohanagar General Hospital

Dhaka, Bangladesh - In the crowded lanes of Postogola, Dhaka, 25-year-old Sima Rani held a leaflet close to her chest. It was a simple flyer promising respectful maternity care, yet for Sima it carried something she had long lost: hope.For years, she had heard that hospitals were places only for emergencies or surgeries, but not for normal childbirth. Her three previous pregnancies had been filled with fear and uncertainty, and she believed giving birth with dignity was an impossible task. But now, with her fourth child on the way, she found herself drawn to the Dhaka Mohanagar General Hospital.“I never thought I could experience kindness and dignity there,” Sima recalled. “But this leaflet was different. It gave me courage.”Until recently, normal deliveries were almost unheard of at the Dhaka Mohanagar General Hospital. The facility focused primarily on cesarean sections, pushing many women to risky home births.This pattern reflects a wider national challenge. While Bangladesh’s maternal mortality rate has decreased to 136 in 2023, the overuse of C-sections remains alarming: nearly 77% of facility deliveries among women from non-slum areas and 58% in slum areas are caesarean, with the figure reaching 84% in private facilities. Only 53.7% of women in Dhaka’s urban slums deliver in health facilities compared to 77.3% in non-slum areas—leaving thousands vulnerable.That began to change in July 2025, when four ICM (International Confederation of Midwives) standard midwives were deployed under a UNFPA-supported initiative, in partnership with Jhpiego Bangladesh,Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) and support from Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).These midwives didn’t just bring clinical expertise, they brought compassion, empathy, and a new vision for childbirth in the heart of Dhaka.“Our mission is simple,” said midwife Arju Akhter. “Every woman deserves safe, respectful care. We wanted women to feel that this hospital was their place too—not a place to fear.”The change began with outreach. Midwives and community volunteers distributed leaflets and spoke directly with women and their families, countering myths that the hospital was “only for surgeries.” They listened patiently to hesitant husbands and mothers-in-law, answering questions and offering reassurance.When Sima came for her first antenatal check-up, dangerously low hemoglobin levels were discovered. Timely treatment not only saved her life, but also safeguarded her baby’s. In August 2025, she gave birth to a healthy baby girl, one of the first normal deliveries recorded at the hospital in nearly a decade.“I used to fear labor,” Sima said. “But this time, I was treated like a sister, not just a patient.”Since the introduction of midwifery-led care in July this year, 34 safe normal deliveries have taken place. For the first time in years, the delivery room is alive with the sound of newborn cries and mothers’ relief.What sets this initiative apart is its emphasis on dignity. Midwives are trained not only in clinical safety but also in trauma-informed, client-centred care. They call women by name, guide them through breathing techniques, and offer support through labor.“The best tool isn’t always the latest technology,” explained midwife Renasa. “Sometimes, it’s just listening and standing beside a woman when she needs it most.”For families long skeptical of hospital births, these small gestures have built trust. “Now women in our community are telling each other: the hospital is safe, and you will be respected there,” said Sima.The shift wasn’t easy. Generations of misinformation meant many families believed cesarean sections were the only safe option. Others worried about hidden costs or poor treatment. Midwives tackled these fears through dialogue and proof.“Some families doubted us,” said midwife Arifa. “We invited them to see for themselves. When they saw mothers returning home safely with their babies, they started to believe.”The programme has also eliminated cost as a barrier. All services under the intervention are free of charge, ensuring that women from disadvantaged families can access skilled care.The change at Dhaka Mohanagar General Hospital didn’t happen overnight, nor did it happen alone. It was built on collaboration.UNFPA brought technical leadership and helped ensure that qualified midwives were recruited and trained to international standards. Jhpiego Bangladesh walked alongside them in the wards, offering on-site mentorship and strengthening community outreach so that women would hear about the new services. And with the Dhaka South City Corporation integrating midwives into the hospital system, the foundation for long-term sustainability was set.To secure this change, UNFPA facilitated the signing of an MoU between DSCC and the Directorate General of Nursing and Midwifery. Under the agreement, the Directorate will provide technical guidance, training, and professional development for midwives, while DSCC will ensure the necessary infrastructure, medical equipment, and administrative support.With this foundation, DSCC has committed to gradually expanding midwifery-led sexual and reproductive health services to all health centres and creating midwifery posts in every urban health facility under its jurisdiction. This model is expected to cover a catchment area of 800,000 people—reaching an estimated 5,000 pregnant women in the slums of Dhaka.As Bangladesh works towards the goals of zero preventable maternal deaths and zero unmet need for family planning, midwifery-led care is proving to be a cornerstone of progress. Scaling up this model across urban hospitals could transform maternal care nationwide—offering women safe, respectful, and free deliveries close to home.For Sima, the change was deeply personal, but its ripple effects extend far beyond her. “My heart is full, not just because of my baby,” she said, holding her daughter. “But because I was respected. That is a gift every woman deserves.”

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08 November 2025

Community-based tourism in Jaflong: creating jobs and nurturing nature

The ILO, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Tourism Board, has helped launch a community-based tourism (CBT) model in Jaflong that welcomes visitors to experience the vibrant Khasi cultural heritage while ensuring community ownership and equitable benefits.DHAKA (ILO News) – “When Marta came to my house to stay as a tourist, I was worried, would she really like it here? But she loved it. We shared stories about our Khasi culture, the life and livelihoods of people in the community and she told me about her life in Italy as well.” recalls Sadhona Dikhar, one of the homestay hosts in the Khasi Punjee of Jaflong, Sylhet. Perched on the banks of the crystal-clear Piayn River and ringed by rolling tea gardens, Jaflong is a jewel of Bangladesh’s Sylhet division. Today it offers visitors more than just spectacular scenery. A unique community-based tourism (CBT) model invites travellers to experience Jaflong’s vibrant Khasi cultural heritage while ensuring the local community’ ownership and equitable benefits.A Community-driven modelWith technical support from the ILO ProGRESS project and the Bangladesh Tourism Board, the Jaflong CBT model was launched in April 2025. At its heart is a Destination Management Committee (DMC), formed by the headmen of each participating Khasi villages. The body oversees tourism operations, from homestays to cultural programming, managing tourism income, and decision-making within the community and guaranteeing authenticity and safety. Jobs, skills, and women’s leadershipThe model focuses on empowering women and youth through relevant skills development and appropriate enterprise development interventions, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals on poverty reduction, gender equality, decent work, and climate action. As part of an eco-tourism approach, local residents received training in hospitality, homestay management, cooking, tour guiding, handicrafts, and environmentally sustainable business practices. The ProGRESS project also connects nearby public and private training institutes with the community, building capacity to deliver the services CBT requires while protecting Jaflong’s natural and cultural treasures. Homestay operators were connected with tour operator associations and women-led enterprises with markets and exporters. So far, 58 members of the Khasi community have completed training in homestay management, housekeeping, cooking, and tour guiding, along with Gender and Entrepreneurship Together training, enabling them to successfully operate the community-based tourism model.© ILOLocal youth took part in a hands-on tour guide training sessionThis model will generate about 50 direct tourism jobs and benefited more than 1,200 residents. The ILO, together with the Bangladesh Tourism Board, also developed the Community-Based Tourism Guideline and introduced a comprehensive Code of Conduct to ensure responsible and inclusive tourism practices.Immersive experiences for visitorsTravelers can stay in four Khasi-run homestays, sharing daily life with families and savouring traditional cuisine like Ja Doh (spiced rice with meat) and Doh Kleh (meat salad) prepared from fresh local ingredients. The itinerary features:Cycling and trekking through tea estates and forest trailsBoating and fishing on the Piayn RiverEvening storytelling with elders who recount Khasi legendsVisits to the Jainta King Palace, hidden waterfalls, and the serene wetlands of Shapla BilCultural music and dancesBonfire experiences with communityA modest green activity fee from the tourists supports waste management and conservation measures, ensuring that tourism activities protect the natural environment, preserve cultural heritage and generate benefits for the Khasi community. Real impact, real storiesSince the launch, local people have developed new income opportunities from tour guiding, homestay hospitality, cultural performances, traditional cuisines and souvenir handicraft sales.Sorina Khongstia, a newly trained tour guide, greeted visitor Martha at the riverbank and led her on a walk through the villages. “I love guiding—it’s a new skill that has opened a path for me to earn an income,” Sorina said. “I was amazed when Martha sang a Baul folk song with our community!”Nearby, Clara Khonglah runs the community souvenir shop and washroom, working alongside artisan Markut Lamin. Their handmade crafts, using locally sourced materials, are selling fast. These businesses are applications of the knowledge and skills Clara and other women obtained from Gender and Entrepreneurship Together (GET Ahead) training course coordinated by ILO’s ProGRESS Project. She noticed that many neighbours are now eager to learn souvenir-making techniques and start their businesses as well.Marta Mattalia, the Italian tourist who stayed at Szirom Homestay, calls the experience unforgettable: “The family house is surrounded by nature, and the welcome was the warmest I’ve ever received. Sadhona’s home-cooked food and the chance to learn Khasi traditions were unforgettable.” A model for sustainable tourismGovernment officials and local authorities see Jaflong as a blueprint for inclusive, eco-friendly tourism. “This initiative shows how tourism can drive economic growth and protect the environment,” says Fatema Rahim Veena, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism.Nerola Tongsong, Adviser to the DMC, reminds visitors to respect the code of conduct to respect and preserve the community’s way of life.As travellers sip Khasi tea at sunrise or join a village bonfire under the stars, they discover more than a hidden gem. They discover new perspectives how to help shape a future where tourism uplifts communities, safeguards nature, and celebrates the unique culture of the Khasi people.Promotional video

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08 November 2025

From muddy paths to mountain views: The human face of Himchari’s tourism

Just a few months ago, the road to Himchari waterfall was little more than a rough track - muddy and lined with neglected broken stalls. But step into Himchari Bazar today, and you will find clearer all-weather roads, public toilets, information boards, and even plans for shaded seating and breastfeeding corners in this once-forgotten tourist destination.Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh (ILO News) - This shift didn’t happen overnight. Behind the quiet transformation are the powerful stories of people like Rashid, a local shopkeeper-turned-community leader, and Habib, a souvenir seller teaching his son the value of good service. With training and support from the ILO and its partners, they are not just improving the tourism infrastructure in Cox’s Bazar - they are building hope, ownership and livelihood, one small step at a time.The Cox's Bazar district in Bangladesh, renowned for its long sea beach, is also home to a multitude of lesser-known attractions that remain largely underdeveloped and undiscovered. As a result, the overall tourist experience remains limited due to inadequate infrastructure and insufficient tourist-oriented services. Unlocking tourism potential In collaboration with the District Commissioner’s Office, local government bodies and private sector actors, the International Labour Organization (ILO)’s Leaving no one behind: Improving skills and economic opportunities for the Women & Youth in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh (ISEC) project is facilitating both systemic and community-level changes. These include the selection of eight priority tourist destinations such as Himchari, and investment in advocacy and governance, multi-stakeholder coordination and training of local service providers to build a more sustainable and visitor-friendly tourism sector in Cox’s Bazar. These initiatives are funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC).The project emphasizes inclusive participation of the local community in the tourism sector, particularly a greater role of women, youth and persons with disabilities. It also promotes responsible tourism alongside environmental protection by supporting eco-friendly measures at key tourist destinations, training on road safety and respectful behaviour with tourists, and an awareness campaign in schools. Welcome infrastructure upgradeKnown for its scenic hills, waterfalls and marketplace, Himchari is one of the most visited destinations close to Cox’s Bazar city centre. The Himchari Bazar is a popular stop for tourists looking to explore natural trails or shop for souvenirs. However, until recently, the roads were impassable. Even six months ago, the roads here were muddy and full of potholes. There were no restrooms and a proper car park. After the Bazar Committee negotiated with local authorities, essential upgrades began. Mohammad Habib, owner of a souvenir shop, Hamchari Bazar.The President of the Himchari Bazar Committee, Mohammad Rashid, had big ambitions but lacked formal training until he met the ILO ISEC project representatives in 2024. “The ILO guided us on how we can present our needs clearly to the authorities, and advocate for the resources we lacked,” Rashid explained. Today, Himchari Bazar's makeover is visible. New restrooms, rubbish bins, and better roads and drainage systems; streetlights and security cameras have improved safety, while bilingual information boards provide visitors a clear guidance. The stairway leading to the Himchari waterfall has also been renovated, and a designated parking area with a transparent fee management system is now in place. Additionally, dedicated cleaners maintain hygiene in the marketplace. These improvements align with the Himchari masterplan, with further upgrades expected. "We plan to set up a breastfeeding corner, changing rooms for swimmers and shaded seating areas for the visitors. Mohammad Rashid, President of the Himchari Bazar Committee." Tourists have also noticed the changes. Md Maruf Ahmed, a member of the armed forces who recently visited Himchari with his family, remarked, “The place looks more organized than before. A shaded rest area in the bazar would make it even better.”Strengthening governance and stakeholder engagementTourism in Bangladesh is growing fast and Cox’s Bazar is at the heart of this change. To make sure these improvements last, the ISEC project is focusing on stronger governance and closer collaboration among everyone involved in the tourism sector."Tourism is an emerging economic sector in Bangladesh. The ILO played a key role in activating the District Tourism Development Committee (DTDC) and bringing together all relevant actors under one platform. Together, we have selected eight priority destinations, including Himchari, for targeted interventions to promote sustainable tourism practices."Abu Morshed Chowdhury, President of the Cox’s Bazar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CBCCI).A big part of this effort is helping local service providers strengthen their soft skills. Micro and small entrepreneurs such as tour operators, market stall owners and other tourism workers have been trained in customer service, etiquette, gender equality and business management. I learned how to calculate profit margins, keep track of expenses, and improve product quality. Earlier, we used to get annoyed if tourists asked for prices but didn’t buy. Now, we treat them politely and focus on respectful communication.Mohammad Habib, owner of a souvenir shop, Hamchari Bazar.Promoting safer transportation for touristsTo make Himchari a truly tourist-friendly destination, improving transportation safety is essential, especially since it is only about 4 kilometers from Cox’s Bazar. Battery-powered three-wheelers, known locally as “tomtoms,” are a common way for tourists and locals to reach surrounding destinations like Himchari. The lack of regulation and safety awareness among drivers has often led to complaints of overcharging and reckless driving. To address this, the ISEC project partnered with the Cox’s Bazar Traffic Police to train 200 tomtom drivers on traffic rules, safe driving and tourist etiquette. Trained drivers now wear official vests and are registered on a digital platform called CoxCab. Inside each tomtom, a QR code is displayed which tourists can scan to view the driver’s profile and rate their experience. “This system improves transparency and accountability,” said Mohammad Jashim Uddin Chowdhury, Assistant Superintendent of Traffic Police.I offer a tour package from Cox’s Bazar town to five destinations, including Himchari. I took part in the traffic training, and I’ve learned about using indicator signals, safe parking, and customer communication at the training. I make sure to clarify fares before a ride and never exceed 45 km per hour.Kamaluddin, a 21-year-old tomtom driver. Looking ahead, the Himchari community plans to set up regulated beach chairs along the coastline and launch a weekly floating market to sell locally grown organic produce. Himchari is showing what real change looks like when people are given the skills and support to lead. With continued investment and collaboration, this once-overlooked area is becoming a model for other undiscovered and underrated destinations in Cox’s Bazar.

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Story

08 November 2025

Jahanara Turns Plastic Waste into Prosperity

Sunamganj, in north-eastern Bangladesh, is home to vast haor wetlands, seasonal floodplains that support fishing, farming, and tourism. These wetlands are central to local livelihoods and rich in biodiversity, making them vital for both people and nature. But this ecosystem faces growing challenges. Climate-driven floods threaten farming and fishing, while plastic waste, bottles, bags, and wrappers clog wetlands, adding to the community’s struggles. This is where Jahanara Khatun’s story begins.Once struggling to feed her children and care for her ailing husband, Jahanara’s fortunes shifted when she became a beneficiary of the Local Government Initiative on Climate Change (LoGIC) project. With a small grant, she started farming, finding stability for her family. Yet, she saw a bigger problem—and an opportunity. Determined to protect her wetlands and create jobs, Jahanara rallied more than 160 LoGIC beneficiaries and founded the cooperative limited. In December 2024, they launched the haor’s first-ever plastic recycling factory with Jahanara, voted by her peers for her leadership role, was appointed as the president of the enterprise. Each month, the factory purchases 500–1000 kilograms of plastic from local waste collectors who gather waste from rivers, wetlands, and tourist spots. Around 20 villagers, mostly from climate vulnerable families, sort and process the waste, earning BDT 400–500 (USD 3–4) a day. The recycled plastic is then sold to larger factories, transforming pollution into income while restoring nature’s balance.The results are already visible. Cleaner wetlands are bringing back fish and migratory birds. Families are earning new incomes. The initiative even won the Global Center on Adaptation’s Locally Led Adaptation Award at COP28 and secured funding from the FBCCI Innovation & Research Centre. Jahanara’s story is more than a tale of resilience; it’s a blueprint for climate action. By turning plastic waste into opportunity, the people of Khalishajuri are proving that even vulnerable wetland communities can lead the way in protecting the planet, creating jobs, and rewriting their future.160 LoGIC members built Sunamganj’s first haor recycling hub—cleaning wetlands and creating green jobs

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Press Release

06 November 2025

Joint Statement by UNDP, UN Women and UNESCO on ongoing UN electoral assistance to Bangladesh

The UN system has been providing electoral assistance to Bangladesh intermittently since 2008. UNDP, UN Women and UNESCO are currently supporting Bangladesh under the UN Sustainable Development Framework (2022-2027) to ensure more inclusive, gender-responsive and accountable governance systems and that all people are empowered, engaged and enjoy all human rights, peace, non-violence, justice and security. This assistance is guided by United Nations principles, including respect for national sovereignty and ownership, the promotion of human rights, and a commitment to impartiality, neutrality, and independence. The BALLOT Project, led by UNDP in collaboration with UN Women and UNESCO, is an electoral assistance initiative developed in response to a formal request of the Bangladesh Election Commission dated 5 December 2024.The project was formulated based on extensive consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including national authorities, political parties, civil society and international partners. The project involves several national and international partners and is being implemented in a phased approach focusing on strengthening capacities of Bangladesh electoral stakeholders. It includes supporting the Bangladesh Election Commission’s operational capacity, supporting voter and civic education, and promoting greater inclusion in electoral processes and information integrity. It is in line with Bangladesh’s national priorities, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and the UN normative framework for electoral assistance.UN electoral assistance is always provided with respect for the sovereign authority of national institutions. With the assistance of the UNDP-led project, 6 million new voters have been added to the 120 million already registered, creating a significant opportunity to help shape the country’s democratic trajectory and foster long-term stability.Further information on the BALLOT project is available on UNDP’s website.

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Press Release

29 October 2025

Youth as catalysts of change- UN Bangladesh celebrates the 80th anniversary of the United Nations through young photographers’ lenses

To mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, UN Bangladesh today launched the UN80 Youth Photo Exhibition “Youth as Catalysts of Change” at the UN House in Dhaka. The exhibition showcases 80 powerful photographs, symbolizing 80 years of the UN’s work, each reflecting the creativity, resilience, and aspirations of young people across Bangladesh in building a more peaceful, equal, and sustainable world.“Bangladesh’s young people are already shaping the future, building climate-smart villages, mentoring girls in STEM, advocating for inclusion and equality, and supporting families in need,” said Domenico Scalpelli, acting UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh. “Each photo called on the UN, government, and partners to keep investing in youth as leaders, innovators, and equal partners in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals,” he added. The photo contest was announced publicly in September this year and attracted entries from youth living in cities and hard-to-reach areas, as well as from Rohingya youth. The selected process was led by a jury composed of representatives of youth advisory groups. Entries were evaluated on creativity, relevance to them, and storytelling power.Three photographers received UN80 Youth Awards for outstanding creativity and storytelling.“Through my photo I wanted to deliver a message of hope and positive change. We as youth can create change by addressing the needs of the most vulnerable people - listening to them, understanding their struggles, and helping ensure access to education and gender equality. Progress is only possible when we move forward together,” said Al Amin Hossain, the first-prize winner of the UN80 Youth Photo Contest. The exhibition will be open to public at Shahabuddin Park from 30 October to 1 November 2025, offering visitors a chance to explore the works of Bangladesh’s young talents and their visions for a better tomorrow.For more information, please contact: Asma AkterCommunication OfficerUNFPA Bangladeshasma@unfpa.org01711673555

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Press Release

28 October 2025

IFAD warns against potential fraudulent practices and misuse of its name

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is aware of and concerned by fraudulent activities soliciting money from the public.Such fraudulent posts or correspondence may appear legitimate: they may feature an IFAD logo, appear to originate from an official-looking email address or web site, or they may be sent by individuals purporting to represent IFAD or an entity which includes the word IFAD in its name. These fraudulent schemes mislead individuals with the purpose to extract money and/or personal information.IFAD does not solicit payments or personal information from individuals in exchange for loans, grants, employment, training, invitation to bid, project participation, among others. IFAD communications only come from emails ending in @ifad.org.Loans and grantsPlease note that IFAD lends only to governments, and to select private sector and community-based institutions. IFAD does not lend directly to individuals. Please follow this link to learn more.ProcurementAll interested prospective bidders should visit the IFAD website to learn more about the supplies and services IFAD procures to support programme implementation.All corporate procurement notices and tender opportunities are advertised through the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM).Project procurement may also be done through relevant government websites, conforming to country-specific procurement rules and guidelines.RecruitmentThis is to clarify that IFAD does not receive applications (including cover letters and CVs) through email. All IFAD vacancies are announced on its official job page and LinkedIn page. All applications are uploaded online.IFAD does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, travelling, processing, training or any other fees), and it will not request any personal and banking information.Financial loss and identity theft could result from the sending of money or personal information to those issuing such fraudulent correspondence.If you fall victim to fraud, it is recommended that you contact immediately local law enforcement authorities. If you wish to report any potentially fraudulent activities related to IFAD, or if you if you receive a suspicious message, do not reply and report it immediately. Please contact the IFAD Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) Investigation Section by phone at +39 06 5459 2888 or by email at anticorruption@ifad.org.

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Press Release

16 October 2025

Bangladesh: Türk sees important steps towards accountability for disappearances, calls for fair trials and due process

GENEVA – UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk said today the initiation of proceedings against those accused of carrying out enforced disappearances and torture under the previous government in Bangladesh was an important step towards accountability.“This marks the first time that formal charges have been brought for enforced disappearances in the country. It is a significant moment for victims and their families,” High Commissioner Türk said.Last week, the country’s International Crimes Tribunal submitted formal charges of crimes against humanity in two cases related to enforced disappearances and torture alleged to have occurred at the Task Force for Interrogation Cell and the Joint Interrogation Cell, respectively. The Tribunal also issued arrest warrants for mostly former, but also some serving, military officers, including a number of former Directors-General of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence, as well as former officials of the Rapid Action Battalion.On Saturday, Bangladesh’s army announced that it had detained over a dozen of its officers accused of serious crimes committed under the previous administration. It is crucial that the army promptly produces these detained officers to a competent civilian court, for fair and transparent criminal proceedings.“I urge full respect for the most scrupulous standards of due process and fair trial, as guaranteed in international law. The protection of victims and witnesses in these sensitive and significant cases must be ensured,” the High Commissioner said.One of the key recommendations of the UN Human Rights Office’s Fact-Finding Report into last year’s deadly student-led protests was that those responsible for serious violations of human rights, some of which may also constitute international crimes, must be held to account in accordance with international standards.The crime of enforced disappearances is now formally recognised in Bangladesh for the first time following ratification in August 2024 of the Convention on Enforced Disappearances and an amendment to the International Crimes Tribunal Act.The High Commissioner also urges the authorities to prioritise the handling of the large number of other pending cases – with some dating back to the previous administration and others since then. It is crucial to ensure due process and fair resolution in each case, and to release promptly anyone who has been arbitrarily detained.This includes survivors of enforced disappearances and others facing unfounded charges, including journalists and those perceived to be supporters of the former regime. Many of them continue to face criminal charges, including under the draconian Anti-Terrorism Act.The High Commissioner has also urged the authorities not to pursue the death penalty in any of the cases before its courts, irrespective of the seriousness of the charges.“Beyond ensuring individual accountability, the best way forward for Bangladesh is a comprehensive process of truth-telling, reparation, healing and justice. Such a process must address the legacy of serious human rights violations and ensure that these abuses can never happen again. I also call on the interim Government to deal with ongoing concerns promptly in line with international law,” Türk said.For more information and media requests, please contact:In Geneva
Ravina Shamdasani: +41 22 917 9169 / ravina.shamdasani@un.org
Liz Throssell: +41 22 917 9296 / elizabeth.throssell@un.org
Jeremy Laurence: +41 22 917 9383 / jeremy.laurence@un.orgWhatsApp
X @UNHumanRights
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Press Release

15 October 2025

Three out of four women in Bangladesh experience violence, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics survey finds

A national survey released today by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bangladesh reveals the staggering scale of violence faced by women and girls across the country. The 2024 Violence Against Women (VAW) survey full report, launched today, follows the key findings presented in February this year. The VAW survey measured both UN-defined acts of violence and additional acts reflecting the Bangladesh context. It provides a roadmap for action, calling for urgent investments in violence prevention, strengthened services and access to justice, and an enabling legal and policy environment grounded in gender equality and human rights.The findings based on both UN as well as locally defined acts of violence show that three out of four women (76%) have experienced at least one form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime, including physical, sexual, emotional, and economic violence, as well as controlling behaviors. Nearly half of women (49%) experienced such violence in the past year. Alarmingly, two in three survivors (62%) never disclosed the violence they face.The survey also highlights violence from non-partners: 15% of women experienced physical violence, and 2.2% sexual violence from non-partners since the age of 15. In this survey, “intimate partners” are defined as current or former husbands, while “non-partners” refer to any individual other than a current or former husband. The 2024 survey marks the third national study of its kind, following previous rounds in 2011 and 2015. It captures trends over the past decade and provides a detailed picture of how violence affects women across Bangladesh, including those living in slums, disaster-prone areas and women with disabilities.“This is the most comprehensive survey of its kind in Bangladesh. It provides robust evidence on the prevalence, causes, and impact of violence, which is critical for policy response,” said Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Director General of BBS, who chaired the launch event. “Going forward, we are committed to strengthening the institutional capacity of BBS to generate VAW data, while ensuring that data collection remains safe, ethical, and rigorous,” he added.While some progress has been made — with the overall prevalence of recent intimate partner violence declining from 66% in 2015 to 49% in 2024 — the survey also highlights the ongoing costs to survivors and society. Women continue to face high out-of-pocket expenses for medical and legal support, while stigma and harmful norms silence many survivors.The detailed findings are staggering:More than half of women (54%) experienced physical or sexual violence by husbands during their lifetime. Among women experiencing sexual violence, 60% faced multiple incidents in the last 12 months.During pregnancy, 7.2% of married women faced physical violence and 5.3% sexual violence, threatening maternal and child health.Mothers-in-law and male family members are the most frequent perpetrators of non-partner physical violence. Most non-partner sexual violence are perpetrated by individuals known to the survivors - male relatives, friends and acquaintances. 8.3% of women experienced some forms of technology-facilitated gender-based violence related to sexual blackmail, image-based abuse, and controlling behaviors.Service-seeking is alarmingly limited, with only 14.5% of survivors seeking medical care. Among survivors of intimate partner violence, 7.4% took legal action, with community leaders being the most approached authority. Only 3.8% of non-partner violence survivors pursued legal action, commonly approaching police.Less than 1 in 2 women (48.5%) know where to report violence, and just 12.3% are aware of the VAW Helpline 109.Key factors increasing the risk of intimate partner violence include younger age, dowry practices, husbands’ substance abuse or extramarital affairs, and living in urban slums. For non-partner violence, younger age, limited education, and disability are key predictors.These findings were presented during the launch of the survey report, attended by Dr. Quayyum Ara Begum, Member (Secretary), Socio-Economic Infrastructure Division, Planning Commission, as chief guest, as well as Ms. Aleya Akter, Secretary, Statistics and Informatics Division and Ms. Shabnam Mustari, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs as special guests. “The evidence is conclusive: violence against women remains a widespread human rights crisis in Bangladesh. Behind these statistics are thousands of women who bravely shared their stories. This report must mark the beginning of transformative action to prevent violence, strengthen services, and ensure justice for survivors,” said Catherine Breen Kamkong, UNFPA Representative in Bangladesh, attending the event as guest of honor.A panel discussion was also held, featuring Ms. Shireen Huq, Chairperson of the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission; Dr. Shoeb Reaz Alam, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Special Security and Protection Battalion (SPBn); and Dr. Sanzida Akhter, Professor in the Department of Women and Gender Studies at the University of Dhaka, where they urged policymakers to take evidence-based action to eliminate violence against women in Bangladesh.To download the full report and its summary, please visit UNFPA Bangladesh page on VAW.For media inquiries, please contactMinakhi BiswasDeputy Director & Project DirectorIntegrating geospatial Information with gender and vital statistics Bangladesh Bureau of StatisticsPhone: +88 01550041360Gulalek SoltanovaChief of CommunicationUNFPA Bangladeshsoltanova@unfpa.orgPhone: +880 1332112579

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