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Press Release
26 July 2024
Bangladesh: Türk decries government crackdown, urges respect for international human rights standards
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Press Release
17 July 2024
Rice Donation from Republic of Korea Provides a Major Boost to WFP’s Food Assistance for Rohingya in Bangladesh
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Story
12 July 2024
WFP Provides Emergency Food Assistance for Population Affected by Floods in Northeast Bangladesh
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The Sustainable Development Goals 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:
Press Release
07 July 2024
UN Agencies provide $6.2 million in anticipatory cash and assistance to vulnerable communities ahead of anticipated flooding in Bangladesh
The anticipatory action trigger for floods in the Jamuna River basin in Bangladesh have been reached, and the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) promptly disbursed $US6.2 million to support the most vulnerable families mitigate the impact of the floods. The pre-arranged funds were provided to four UN Agencies: The Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and World Food Programme (WFP) to reach people before the forecasted floods occur. By using early warning systems and scientific advances in disaster prediction, this CERF enabled implementing partners to reach 400,000 people in the northern Bangladesh districts of Kurigram, Gaibandha, Jamalpur, Bogura and Sirajganj, including 92,089 men, 127,290 women, 159,121 children and 6,045 people with disabilities before the flooding occurred. Each of the 80,000 households will receive anticipatory multi-purpose cash transfers, water purification supplies, agricultural support, dignity & baby kits, and information services on gender-based violence.Anticipatory Action is a proactive approach to disaster management that enables the implementation and financing of actions before an extreme weather event occurs, helping families to safeguard their homes and income and ensure food security before and after the crisis. This anticipatory grant targets vulnerable community members, including people with disabilities, transgender people, women, children, and households in the low-lying char (riverine island) areas who face an elevated risk of food insecurity and malnutrition, and protection issues due to existing poverty and marginalization. This is the second time that Anticipatory Action has been used in Bangladesh. The initiative was launched based on predictions by UN experts, forecasting that continued monsoon rainfall will lead to water levels along the Jamuna and other tributaries increasing significantly by mid-July, causing destructive floods. The allocation emphasizes the participation of both implementing agencies and affected communities to ensure that the chosen activities reflect priorities, respond to urgent life-saving needs, and improve resilience through various forms of support. The UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Ms. Gwyn Lewis, welcomed the timely disbursal of funding: “Anticipatory Action can significantly reduce the impact of disasters on families and support a faster recovery. By providing support before a disaster hits, vulnerable communities have the financial resources in hand to cope with floods and cyclones that are growing in frequency and intensity. Families are empowered to make their own decisions on how best to protect their homes and livelihoods and therefore they can better safeguard what is important, contributing to building resilience before the next cyclone or flood hits. ”Historically, UN agencies have worked closely with the Government of Bangladesh to respond to floods and cyclones, providing timely responses where the needs are highest. However, in the face of vulnerabilities created by climate change and other external factors, preventive efforts like Anticipatory Action are growing in importance.Through the current Anticipatory Action grant, FAO will support agriculture by providing livestock feed and grain storage silos to 11,310 farmers in the region. The grant will help vulnerable farmers protect their livelihoods and assets ahead of impending flood damage.WFP will provide multipurpose cash assistance to 75,700 families to help them meet their basic food, nutrition and other essential needs and help deter people from adopting negative coping strategies such as eating less, skipping meals, or taking on debts. UNICEF will ensure safe drinking water by making mobile treatment plant units available at evacuation points and shelters. Additionally, they will distribute water jerry cans and purification tablets to 110,000 people. UNICEF will also disseminate messages on early warning and good hygiene through community-based communication campaigns to minimize the risk of waterborne diseases among the affected population. UNFPA will target 18,729 women, adolescent girls, and transgender people to provide quality services & goods to address gender-based violence, reduce maternal mortality and manage menstrual health. This Anticipatory Action allocation is supported by the CERF Climate Action Account. The Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is managed by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and enables humanitarian agencies to deliver immediate life-saving assistance in crises worldwide. For more information on CERF visit the CERF official website. For the latest funding updates, visit the OCHA Financial Tracking Service.Learn more about the Anticipatory Action Framework in Bangladesh: https://tinyurl.com/4kkd5b2f For more information and media enquiries, please contact: Anahita Ahmed, Public Information Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office; anahita.ahmed@un.org
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Press Release
25 April 2024
Children are at high risk amid countrywide heatwave in Bangladesh
DHAKA, 24 April 2024 – "With an oppressive heatwave persisting throughout Bangladesh, UNICEF remains deeply concerned about the health and safety of children across the country due to sweltering temperatures. According to UNICEF’s 2021 Children's Climate Risk Index (CCRI), children in Bangladesh, are at 'extremely high risk' of the impacts of climate change. The unusual rise in temperatures poses grave risks, particularly to newborns, infants, and young children who are considered to be an especially vulnerable population to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and diarrhea caused by dehydration. Moreover, as the Primary and Mass Education Ministry has ordered the closure of all government primary schools in the country till 27 April due to concerns with the impact of rising temperatures on children, UNICEF is urging parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and safe. The severity of this heatwave underscores the urgent need for action to protect children from the worsening impacts of climate change. With temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, we must prioritize the well-being of children and the most vulnerable populations. To protect children from this heatwave, UNICEF urges frontline workers, parents, families, caregivers and local authorities to protect children and pregnant women by taking the following steps: Prevention: Wherever children are staying, create cooler places for children to sit or play. Avoid being outdoors during the hot midday and afternoon hours. Make sure that children wear light, breathable clothes, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. First aid: If a child or a pregnant woman shows symptoms of heat stress (eg dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea, mild fever, nosebleeds, muscle cramps, heath rashes in diaper area), place the person in a cool, shaded area with good ventilation and apply wet towels or cool water to the body. Administer water or Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS). Severe symptoms of heat stress (such as confusion or inability to respond, fainting, high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, seizures and loss of consciousness) require urgent hospital care.Look out for your neighbors: Vulnerable families, children with disabilities, pregnant women, and the elderly face a higher risk of illness or death during heatwaves. Take the time to check on your neighbors, especially those who live alone." For more information, please contact:Faria Selim, UNICEF Bangladesh, Tel: +880 181 758 6096, fselim@unicef.orgFarjana Sultana, UNICEF Bangladesh, Tel: +880 191 151 9507, fasultana@unicef.org
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Story
03 April 2024
National dialogue promotes quality employment and decent work
Today, Government, industry and labour sector stakeholders convened in Dhaka for a national dialogue on Promoting Decent Work for Social Justice, underscoring Bangladesh's commitment to labour reform for equitable and sustained growth as the country prepares for sustainable graduation to an upper middle-income, developing country by the end of this decade. Organized jointly, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the International Labour Organization at the Foreign Service Academy, the dialogue aimed at engaging the stakeholders on key issues, with a call for actionable outcomes for quality employment and decent work. The dialogue brought together diverse views contributing to shaping a future where decent work and competitiveness of businesses are ensured and supported by national development strategies. It facilitated constructive conversations, knowledge-sharing, and partnership-building among government officials, employers, workers, think tanks, private sector representatives, and development partners. As the Chief Guest, State Minister for the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Md. Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, in his address, emphasized the government's commitment to labour reform. "Our dedication to promote decent work and advance social justice remain steadfast. Together, we will build a Bangladesh where all worker's rights are protected, and their contributions valued" he stated. Masud Bin Momen, the Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh, underscored the importance of the multi-stakeholder dialogues on certain labour related issues, stating, "Employment generation and Decent work are in the highest priorities during the present five-year term of the current government. These principles are deeply integrated in our national development strategies, including the GB roadmap (2021-2026) and National Action Plan on the Labour Sector of Bangladesh (2021-2026). These are essential for fostering sustainable growth, including increased trade and investments.” Following suit, Mahbub Hossain, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, said, "Our joint efforts have generated concrete, actionable policies aimed at improving the livelihoods of our workforce as well as safeguarding their fundamental rights and safety in the workplace." ILO Country Director for Bangladesh, Tuomo Poutiainen, remarked "To support successful LDC graduation, Bangladesh must advance key development goals, including prioritizing jobs creation, evidence-based wage policies and robust OSH standards. The ILO continues to stand as a committed partner to the Government of Bangladesh in achieving these objectives.” The discussions delved into three key panel discussions: the Global Accelerator for Jobs, the development of an Evidence-Based National Wage Policy and advancing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in Bangladesh. Each segment shed light on the challenges and opportunities within the world of work. Key stakeholders from the government, employers, and workers gave valuable insights and emphasized the need for a collective approach to ensure decent work and foster social justice. For media queries and information, please contact:AHM Masum BillahDirector (Public Diplomacy), MoFA, 01754-068520Md Sariful IslamCommunications OfficerILO Bangladesh, 01915 631608, islammds@ilo.org
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Press Release
25 April 2024
MOU Signing Ceremony Between UNOPS Bangladesh and The Department of Disaster Management (DDM), Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh
The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) under the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief and The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives in Bangladesh. The MOU was signed by Md. Mijanur Rahman, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) and Sudhir Muralidharan, Country Manager of UNOPS Bangladesh in the presence of the representatives from DDM & UNOPS. The Director-General of the Disaster Management Department (DDM), presided over the ceremony, emphasizing the shared commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering an empowered & Smart Bangladesh. With its infrastructure and procurement expertise, UNOPS will support DDM in rehabilitating critical infrastructure, providing emergency supplies and establishing robust field operations. Additionally, specialized assistance will be extended in areas such as gender integration, stakeholder engagement and human-centered design. Md. Mijanur Rahman, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Management, emphasized that this partnership, which aligns with Bangladesh's goal of reducing disaster risks, comes at a crucial time.“With Bangladesh being one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, experiencing an average of 7-10 tropical cyclones annually, and with over 60% of its land vulnerable to flooding, the collaboration with UNOPS is essential. This collaboration will enhance institutional capacity, implement innovative solutions, and facilitate knowledge sharing, fortifying Bangladesh's resilience against disasters and safeguarding vulnerable communities. Together, we can create a safer and more resilient future for all.” Mr. Sudhir Muralidharan, Country Manager of UNOPS Bangladesh, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “Today marks a significant milestone in our joint efforts to build resilience and strengthen disaster preparedness in Bangladesh. This MOU between UNOPS and the Department of Disaster Management reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding communities across the country from the increasing impacts of climate change and natural hazards.” He further highlighted that, “Bangladesh is regrettably one of the nations most vulnerable to climate-induced disasters like cyclones, floods and riverbank erosion. The devastation wrought by events like Cyclone Sidr in 2007 and the recent floods of 2022 underscore the urgent need for enhanced disaster risk reduction measures and adaptive solutions. Through this partnership, we aim to leverage UNOPS' expertise in infrastructure, procurement and project management to support the Department in developing resilient infrastructure, fortifying emergency response capacities and rolling out innovative technologies. Our complementary strengths can pave the way for a more proactive, coordinated and holistic approach to disaster management.” Key Highlights of the MoU Purpose: The MoU establishes a framework of cooperation and collaboration between UNOPS and DDM in various areas of common interest. Areas of Cooperation: The cooperation aims to develop and implement plans aligning with government DRR policies, priorities and the Sendai Framework for DRR, enhance institutional capacity for disaster preparedness, coordinate efforts for pre and post-disaster situations, craft guidelines in line with international standards, explore innovative DRR solutions, and foster knowledge sharing to implement best practices, ensuring comprehensive disaster resilience in Bangladesh. The partnership upholds the core principles of the Sendai Framework, prioritizing localized, inclusive and whole-of-society approaches to reduce disaster risks, minimize losses and safeguard human well-being. By uniting DDM's mandate and UNOPS' technical strengths, the collaboration will ensure Bangladesh is well-equipped to anticipate, respond to, and recover effectively from cyclones, floods, and other hazards exacerbated by climate change. This strategic alliance represents a significant milestone in fostering a partnership that aligns with the global 2030 agenda for sustainable development. For media inquiries, please contact: Musfika Sultana Communications Focal, UNOPS Bangladesh Email: musfikaS@unops.or
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Speech
25 April 2024
Remarks by Ms. Gwyn Lewis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh for the Opening Ceremony of 2024 National Adaptation Plan Expo, Dhaka, Bangladesh
H.E. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh, H.E. Saber Hossain, MP and Minster of Forestry, Enoviroment and Climate Change, Ms. Farhina Ahmed, Secretary, Minster of Forestry, Enoviroment and Climate ChangeMr. Gabriel Kpaka, Chair, Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG)Mr. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary, UNFCCCIt is an honour for me to address the opening of the NAP Expo 2024 on behalf of the UN in Bangladesh.It is timely and appropriate that Bangladesh is hosting the ninth NAP Expo 2024 in Dhaka.As this audience knows well, Bangladesh remains one of the most disaster-prone and climate-vulnerable countries globally, ranking seventh in the Global Climate Risk Index for 2021. In 2023 alone, Bangladesh experienced three cyclones – Mocha, Hamoon, and Midhili – that affected 1.5 million people, and devastating floods and landslides in the Chattogram region that affected over 1.3 million people. Climate change is expected to increase the number and severity of such disasters and is a major threat to Bangladesh’s impressive development gains. If global warming persists at its current rate it could force an estimated 17% of the population of Bangladesh to migrate internally by 2050.[1] An incredible number given Bangladesh’s population of over 160 million people. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the negative effects of climate change on crop production could adversely affect food security and lead to an increase in poverty of 15% by 2030.Already, today Bangladesh loses 1.3% of its annual GDP due to storms, floods and natural disasters. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics predicts that on current trends this will rise to two per cent of GDP by 2050 and nine per cent by 2100.We have also seen climates very real impact on people’s health: 2023 saw the largest outbreak of dengue fever in Bangladesh’s history, with mosquito-borne diseases likely to become more prevalent with increasing extreme weather events.Knowing the huge risks to this progress, Bangladesh has been proactive in planning for climate change adaptation. One country cannot address climate change alone however, and without concerted action now, the path to sustainable development is uncertain.This is why the Secretary General of the United Nations has declared tackling climate change as one of the six key accelerators for the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda. And why the UN in Bangladesh has as a highest priority to support the government to foster a ‘Sustainable, Healthy and Resilient Environment’As a party to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Bangladesh must be congratulated as one of 53 countries that has developed a National Adaptation Plan for 2023–2050 that “envisions building a climate-resilient nation through effective adaptation strategies that foster a robust society and ecosystems and stimulate sustainable economic growth.”[2]This NAP Expo is an opportunity to discuss, together, the transition from National Adaptation Plan to action, including the all-important goal of raising financing.It is also why the Prime Minister’s initiative of establishing a Bangladesh Climate Development Program is so important. As it will ensure coordination of critical resources behind the government’s plans and significant investments on adaptation. According to the national SDG Costing Exercise conducted in 2022 and supported by the UN, the estimated synchronised[3] cost for achieving SDG13 in Bangladesh is $11.58 billion per year on average. On climate change adaptation specifically, I know that the Government of Bangladesh estimates that approximately $230 billion will be required by 2050, the equivalent of $9 billion per year on average, In addition to coordinated planning for climate adaptation, Bangladesh is now making its mark as a leader in climate financing, recognizing the need to mobilize international and domestic climate financing, including from the private sector, to supplement the considerable investments from the Government, totalling $3.4 billion alone in this year’s national budget In 2023 alone, the UN’s International Fund for Agricultural Development delivered more than half a billion dollars in investments in sustainable and resilient agriculture and climate adaptation.In addition to the investment in climate adaptation, we are working to integrate a climate lens on UN programmes on health, food security, gender, youth, governance and migration.For example, the UN is also accompanying Bangladesh’s global leadership on the UN Food Systems Summit, leading the coalition on Climate Resilience.The UN’s normative and policy interventions include work to support climate change adaptation for gender equality and women’s empowerment and leaving no one behind. The UN is supporting the Local Government Initiatives on Climate Change (LoGIC) programme. Since LoGIC began in 2016, 1.97 million of the most climate vulnerable people, including 56 per cent women, from nine Districts have directly benefited from grants and capacity-building support. At COP28, LoGIC received the Local Adaptation Champion Award in the category of 'Innovation in Developing Climate Finance'.In addition to supporting adaptation and mitigation we continue to work closely with the government to bolster nationwide disaster preparedness and risk management. In a major milestone in 2023, Bangladesh adopted the Secretary General’s initiative for ‘Early Warning For All’ approach and formulated a national roadmap for 2023-2027. Bangladesh was the world’s first country to create a multi-hazard Anticipatory Action framework covering both floods and cyclones. Before Cyclone Mocha and flash floods last year, 45,000 people received timely cash payments. Multistakeholder partnerships, particularly with the private sector and international financial institutions, are also key to driving success on climate action and adaptation, and to support the Government of Bangladesh’s efforts to identify pipelines of bankable projects. Through these initiatives and many more, the UN in Bangladesh pledges its full support to continue these efforts to support Bangladesh’s adaptation to climate change, and to stay the course of its development journey. Excellencies,With the Summit of the Future on the horizon in September 2024, this is an important occasion to bring world-leading experts on climate and environment together. I know Bangladesh will have a strong voice at those discussions, but we all need to work together to make national adaptation a reality for people across the country. On behalf of the United Nations in Bangladesh, I congratulate the Government for this event, and for convening us around a common cause here in Dhaka for the NAP Expo. We look forward to continuing to support the Government in its efforts to implement the NAP here in Bangladesh, to mitigate and adapt to climate change, and to raise the financing for a steady course towards Agenda 2030.Thank you. [1] Fahmida Khatun and Syed Yusuf Saadat, ‘Climate Change in Bangladesh: A Sustainable Development Perspective’ (paper for LDC5 2023).[2] NAP page iii National Adaptation Plan of Bangladesh (2023‐2050) | United Nations Development Programme (undp.org)[3] The synchronized cost in the costing exercise factored in the impact of action on other SDGs to avoid double counting.
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Story
12 July 2024
WFP Provides Emergency Food Assistance for Population Affected by Floods in Northeast Bangladesh
DHAKA—The World Food Programme (WFP) has activated anticipatory action measures as water levels in the Jamuna River approach critical levels. This proactive response aims to mitigate the impact of the impending floods on vulnerable communities. This is the biggest anticipatory action support provided by WFP so far.
With the current significant increase in water levels at key points along the river, which already pose a severe threat to nearby communities, forecasts from the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) indicate that water levels continue to rise, potentially escalating into a severe crisis.
In response to the Jamuna basin riverine floods, WFP and its partners, with the support of multiple donors including Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Humanitarian Aid Department of the European Commission (ECHO), the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), and the Anticipatory Action (AA)-Trust fund supported by Germany and Ireland, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and the Ministry of Disaster Management and Response, successfully delivered the largest pre-financed humanitarian response ever. This response includes:
• Delivery of Anticipatory Assistance: BDT 5,000 was provided to more than 81,000 households four days before the floods peaked.
• Delivery of Anticipatory Shock Responsive Social Protection: Leveraging two national social protection systems (MCBP and EGPP), more than 8,100 government social protection assistance recipients living in flood-affected areas received aid before the floods peaked. This effectively protected the economic and nutritional gains from national social protection investments. Additionally, 1,000 households will receive emergency assistance through the mentioned social protection mechanism in the coming week.
Furthermore, over 20,000 of the aforementioned households are covered by flood insurance.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of our donors whose contributions are crucial in enabling us to act swiftly and effectively in the face of this looming disaster in coordination with the Government of Bangladesh,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director in Bangladesh. “Our teams are working tirelessly to ensure that the most vulnerable families receive the support they need to weather this crisis.”
Activating anticipatory action protocols is a critical component of WFP’s strategy to reduce the impact of natural disasters. By acting before floodwaters reach their peak, WFP aims to safeguard lives and livelihoods, prevent property loss, and reduce the need for long-term humanitarian aid.
WFP’s efforts are focused on several districts along the Jamuna River, including Kurigram, Sirajganj, Gaibandha, Bogura, and Jamalpur. These areas have already experienced significant flooding, which has affected more than 5 million people and led to widespread displacement and shortages of food and clean water.
Dom Scalpelli emphasized the importance of community resilience and preparedness in his statement: “Our anticipatory actions are designed not only to provide immediate relief but also to strengthen the resilience of communities against future floods. We are committed to working with local partners and authorities to ensure these efforts are sustainable and impactful.”
As part of the anticipatory action plan, WFP coordinates with other UN agencies and local organizations to ensure a comprehensive and efficient response. The coming days will be critical as the organization continues to monitor the situation and adjust its operations accordingly.
To sustain its response, WFP faces a funding gap of US$13.2 million and urges the donor communities to come forward to help the vulnerable communities.
For more information, please contact:
Tareq Salahuddin, Communications Officer, WFP Bangladesh; tareq.salahuddin@wfp.org
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Story
10 July 2024
Revived irrigation brings hope and prosperity to climate-vulnerable farmers in Bangladesh
Under the sweltering sun of May, a lush green field lays bare. The farmers working in the fields of Kamarkhola, a small village in the Khulna district, remained unruffled by the heat. After a long time, they are enjoying a good summer yield.Kamarkhola is surrounded by two mighty rivers, the Dhaki and Bhodra. Once, the people of this village were entirely dependent on agriculture and enjoyed three harvests a year. But everything changed after cyclone Aila struck in 2009. The raging winds shattered their houses and shelters, scattered cattle, damaged their livelihoods and future prospects, and destroyed the canals that irrigated their fields with fresh water.Protiva Rani, a farmer, shed light on the circumstances, “Since Aila, we consider the months from January to June as dry period. We wait till monsoon for harvesting. This is the first time after that we have crops in summer”.She reminisced how more than 200 farmers in nearby villages became unemployed after Aila. “The male members of the families started migrating to bigger cities for work and it made us insecure in our own homes,” said Protiva. Based on the needs of the area, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) started working here in 2018, cooperating with the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) through the climate-related project Local Government Initiative on Climate Change (LoGIC) that is funded by the European Union and the governments of Sweden and Denmark.The project initially focused on providing training to selected beneficiaries in crop cultivation and animal husbandry to increase livelihood opportunities in climate-vulnerable areas and empower people. Yet, results were slow to be realised.“We received training on how to grow watermelon and seasonal vegetables but could not utilise what we learned because of the lack of water required for irrigation,” said Chinmoy Mondol, another farmer working in the field. “We knew restoring canals could help our agriculture,” added Chinmoy. The increased participation of the local community, who quickly identified a scheme for improving and rehabilitating the irrigation systems, enabled the local government to respond quickly. It took necessary actions using the income from Performance Based Climate Resilience Grants (PBCRG) to reinstate water bodies for irrigation under the LoGIC projectAfter the restoration, the farmers could fully apply what they had learned in the training, and productivity flourished.“The canals were restored by the middle of 2022. We enjoyed rice plantation during the monsoon and grew seasonal vegetables during winter. After two decades, we will be enjoying three crops a year in 2024,” Chinmoy added.Protiva Rani emphasised the special focus on women in this scheme. “This initiative particularly has helped women in this community. After training, a small grant was provided to the women from every household. We work together in the field and feel ownership of the produces”.Farmers sell their produce to nearby marketplaces and export it to other parts of the country, with some reporting additional earnings of up to US$600.This is a testament to how UNDP, UNCDF, and the government of Bangladesh jointly assist the climate-vulnerable communities in Bangladesh to ensure that no one is left behind.
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Story
10 July 2024
Film as a Catalyst for Smart Citizens and Society
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) of the ICT Division, jointly originated the award-giving ceremony of the Peace Film Festival 2023 under the ‘Diversity for Peace’ initiative of the Partnerships for a More Tolerant, Inclusive Bangladesh (PTIB) project of UNDP, supported by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka.The event, held on July 07, 2024, at the Bangladesh Computer Council Auditorium, ICT Tower, recognized twenty-five short filmmakers for their outstanding contributions in four categories, showcasing the vision of a tolerant, peaceful, and inclusive Smart Bangladesh.The ceremony was attended by Zunaid Ahmed Palak, MP, Honorable State Minister, Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, as the chief guest. The event was organized in collaboration with the Smart Bangladesh Network (SBN) and Films 4 Peace Foundation.In his address, Zunaid Ahmed Palak highlighted the transformative journey of Bangladesh. "Smart Entertainment is a key element of our path to building Smart Bangladesh," he remarked. He also emphasized the significant milestones in the country's film industry, including the production of Bangladesh's first full-length animation film, ‘Mujib Amar Pita,’ and the first 3D film, ‘Amader Chhoto Rasel Sona.’ He lauded the filmmakers for their positive content, encouraging them to continue contributing to the creation of smart citizens and a smart society.Over a hundred short filmmakers and content creators participated in the Peace Film Festival 2023. The Jury board screened 66 short films and 22 video content, selecting 20 short films, two documentaries, two videos, and an animation for the prestigious “Peace Film Festival 2023” Award.Shamsul Arefin, Honorable Secretary of the ICT Division, joined the ceremony as a special guest. He emphasized the importance of depicting positive narratives of Smart Bangladesh and highlighted the qualities of a true smart citizen. "Competence and human values are the two qualities that comprise the true smart citizen," he stated, urging filmmakers to showcase these positive aspects on camera.Sheela Tasneem Haq, Senior Governance Specialist of UNDP Bangladesh, underscored the importance of the festival in fostering peace and harmony. "We can use film as a medium to create attachment with people and address contemporary issues at a global level," she expressed.The Peace Film Festival 2023 kicked off in October 2023, to advocate for a smart and inclusive Bangladesh.The event was attended by Sheepa Hafiza, President of Films 4 Peace Foundation, Manik Mahmud, Programme Specialist Innovations, a2i, Md. Abu Sayed, PTIB Project Director and Director of BCC, Md Abdul Quayyum, Head of Communications, UNDP Bangladesh; and Ranajit Kumar, Executive Director, Bangladesh Computer Council, among others.
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Story
09 July 2024
Instilling hope through education
Asfia Tarannoom is a UN Volunteer Education Officer with the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Bangladesh. She supports quality education for Rohingya children and youth in Cox’s Bazar. For Asfia, her assignment is part of UNICEF's humanitarian education response and makes a positive difference to thousands of learners living in harsh conditions in the camp. This is her story.Asfia joined UNICEF Bangladesh in 2023. She brings a wealth of experience in early childhood education, play-based pedagogy, curriculum development, teachers’ professional development, and research. As an Education Officer, Asfia regularly monitors classrooms. She gives feedback to teachers on widening their skills, refining teaching techniques, and promoting a positive learning environment. All of this directly impacts academic performance.She co-designed a classroom observation tool that enhances learning in the camps. The tool allows peer-monitoring, as part of a wider package of Teacher Professional Development activities with UNICEF staff and Rohingya facilitators.Asfia also leads the consolidation and analysis of monthly data of Rohingya learners and teachers from around 4,300 learning facilities implemented by eight partner organizations. Her analysis is valuable for the education sector dashboard, donor reports, and education materials for learners and learning facilities.The data analysis and monthly monitoring inform programming decisions and data-informed initiatives. Asfia played a substantial role in the recently ended Myanmar curriculum annual assessment and placement tests to enroll new learners. She compiled and analyzed data of test takers including out-of-school children for planning assessment-related logistics. "Education is a basic human right," she says.Witnessing the impact of my volunteer work and how it fosters a positive learning environment in the camp setting is rewarding. This is what keeps me waking up the next day; and motivates me to continue working with other colleagues in the camp to ensure that Rohingya children and youth are educated." Asfia Tarannoom UN Volunteer Education Officer with UNICEF, Bangladesh.As of December 2023, the centers accommodate 336,766 children and youth aged between 3 to 24 years enrolled in education programmes. These impart early childhood education, primary, secondary, and skill-based learning. Moses Yao Korbli, Information Management Officer with UNICEF in Cox's Bazar supervises Asfia and speaks highly of her valuable contribution. "Asfia joined the education team as a UN Volunteer with expertise in research and Early Childhood Development. Later, she enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to join the information management team, demonstrating her can-do spirit, adaptability, and eagerness to learn."Asfia became proficient in data analysis and visualization, ultimately leading her to fully assume the role of coordinating and compiling monthly data for UNICEF's education response. The data is instrumental in donor reporting and informing programming decisions." Moses Yao Korbli, Information Management Officer with UNICEF, Cox's Bazar.One million people from Myanmar Rohingya communities, half of them children, have been living in the densely populated camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh since 2017.
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Story
08 July 2024
Seen and Heard at Last: UNFPA's community mobilization initiatives through POT Theatre
As a boy, Golam Mostafa harboured a dream of becoming a radio singer. Back then, radio was in its heyday and Golam craved a spot as a regular performer. “My father did not approve. He said as much to me. But I was not about to give up,” he said. While his father never explicitly offered his blessing, Golam eventually won him over. “Golam has a lovely voice, doesn’t he? He sings so well,” his father would often tell his mother later in his life – although never in his own son’s presence. As Golam’s voice was transported to different parts of the country across the airwaves, he never looked back, and indulged in one artistic pursuit after another. Today, he is a regular radio personality on Cox’s Bazar Betar, a celebrated theatre artist as well as a businessman. When he was first offered the scripts of “Popular Theater Show,” one of the regular community mobilisation initiatives under the Health and Gender Support Project (HGSP), he instantly became passionate about this project. “I realised it would take me to the farthest corners of this district, and give me an opportunity to showcase my work directly to the people,” he added. “I have always been a believer that art can make a very real, tangible difference in people’s lives, and this initiative seemed like a perfect chance to put that belief to the test.” Over the last three years, Golam’s theatre troupe has staged performances in all 11 unions of the Ramu upazila, hitting some unions as many as five times. Packed with folk music, comic reliefs, and dance numbers, these street shows raises awareness to prevent gender-based violence and harmful practices such as child marriage and dowry, and even harmful social norms such as son preference and daughter aversion. “The messages we convey are extremely important, that is without question,” Golam said with conviction. “But what makes them resonate with the people is the compelling performances delivered by our team. These artists pour their hearts into the daily rehearsals to ensure that every show is pitch perfect.” Golam's dream of forging a direct connection with the audience has lately come true. No matter how far he travels, people of Ramu recognize him not by his own name, but by what his character is called in the show - Member Bhai. Born and raised in Ramu, Golam finds that the local women and girls, including GBV survivors and at-risk adolescents, seek him out for support without hesitation. He, in turn, connects them to the GBV services in their communities. Golam, who has personally prevented two child marriages in the upazila, speaks of a gradual change unfolding across Ramu. “There were times when we had to stop our show halfway through because community members would react negatively to it. Now, people wait for our return, sometimes for months,” he beamed. “We have had women from the audience tearfully embrace our female artists, having finally felt seen and heard." “Men used to scoff at the mention of gender equality and dismiss it as a women's issue. But these days, I hear audience members share stories of men cooking for their families, taking an active role in raising their children, and investing equally in their daughters."At 56, with his own daughter following his path as a radio artist, Golam dismisses the notion of retirement. “There is so much more that can be done with our show. We are just getting started.”
With World Bank’s funding and UNFPA's technical support, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the Health and Gender Support Project in 2021. Under this project, popular theatre shows have reached 180,000 community members in Cox's Bazar district.
With World Bank’s funding and UNFPA's technical support, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the Health and Gender Support Project in 2021. Under this project, popular theatre shows have reached 180,000 community members in Cox's Bazar district.
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Press Release
26 July 2024
Bangladesh: Türk decries government crackdown, urges respect for international human rights standards
GENEVA – UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk today called on the Bangladesh Government urgently to disclose full details about last week’s crackdown on protests amid growing accounts of horrific violence, and to ensure all law enforcement operations abide by international human rights norms and standards.Latest reports indicate that more than 170 people were killed and over a thousand injured - some of whom were denied medical care - and many are missing following protests by students and youth movements against government policies. At least two journalists were reportedly killed, and scores of others injured. Hundreds of people were also reportedly arrested, including opposition figures.“We understand that many people were subjected to violent attacks by groups reportedly affiliated with the Government, and no effort was made to protect them,” said the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.“In order to begin to rebuild gravely-damaged public trust and create an environment conducive to public dialogue on the underlying concerns that led to this wave of violence, I urge the Government to ensure that all operations of law enforcement agencies are conducted strictly in line with international human rights norms and standards, particularly regarding the policing of protests, including use of force.”Türk called on the Government to restore full Internet access to allow all people, including journalists and media outlets, to communicate freely and in line with international law. He added the Government must provide the details of those killed, injured, or detained for the benefit of their families.“Blunt measures such as a blanket deliberate Internet shut down for a prolonged period contravene international law, affecting States’ obligations to respect freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly, as well as a wide range of other rights, including freedom of association and of movement, the rights to health and education, and a number of economic rights,” the High Commissioner said.“Internet shutdowns can also reduce public scrutiny and knowledge of conduct of law enforcement agencies, and so risk heightening impunity for their actions."The High Commissioner called for an impartial, independent and transparent investigation into all alleged human rights violations, offering his Office’s support in this regard.He urged authorities to provide guarantees of non-recurrence and an assurance there would be no reprisals against those involved in the protests. Longer-term, he added, comprehensive security sector reform would also be important to prevent future abuses and safeguard the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.Türk said he hoped the Supreme Court’s decision on Sunday to substantially narrow the quota system for government jobs - a system that had set off last week’s protests - may open space for confidence-building, leading to meaningful and inclusive dialogue to address underlying issues and grievances. He appealed to all political actors to avoid any statements or actions that could constitute incitement to violence or lead to a further crackdown on dissent. For more information and media requests, please contact:In GenevaLiz Throssell - + 41 22 917 9296 / elizabeth.throssell@un.orgJeremy Laurence - +41 22 917 9383 / jeremy.laurence@un.org Marta Hurtado - + 41 22 917 9466 / marta.hurtadogomez@un.org In BangladeshAnahita Ahmed, Public Information Officer, UNIC, United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office; anahita.ahmed@un.org
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Press Release
16 July 2024
Rice Donation from Republic of Korea Provides a Major Boost to WFP’s Food Assistance for Rohingya in Bangladesh
COX’S BAZAR— The World Food Programme (WFP) has received a significant rice donation from the Republic of Korea (ROK) for its lifesaving assistance for the Rohingya population in Bangladesh. Today, an official handover ceremony of 15,000 MT of rice from ROK was held at WFP's Maduchara Logistics Hub in Cox’s Bazar.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh, H.E. Young Sik Park; Director of the Food Grain Policy Division at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of Korea, Sang Moon Byun; Director of Korea Agro-Fisheries Food and Trade Corporation (aT), Danbee Lee; Md Kamrul Hasan, ndc, Secretary, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR); Md Hasan Sarwar, Additional Secretary, MoDMR, and Head of Rohingya Cell; Md. Mohsin, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Food; Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC); and WFP Country Director Dom Scalpelli were present at the handover ceremony.
The humanitarian response to the Rohingya crisis has been led by the Government of Bangladesh since 2017, with the support of the international and humanitarian communities.
Since 2018, the Government of Korea, through MAFRA, has been making steady contributions to WFP’s humanitarian responses around the world. In 2024, the contribution doubled from 50,000 MT to 100,000 MT, enabling WFP to assist some 7 million people across 11 countries, including WFP Bangladesh.
Out of this, 15,000 MT of rice has been donated to Bangladesh for the first time, sufficient to feed around one million Rohingya for 1.5 months. The rice will undergo fortification to enhance its nutritional value before being distributed to Rohingya families in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char Island camps.
Md. Kamrul Hasan, ndc, Secretary, MoDMR said, “This humanitarian aid was very much needed from the Republic of Korea, as we struggled to feed the Rohingya last year. We are very much thankful for the longstanding partnership with Korea.”
"The Republic of Korea is dedicated to supporting humanitarian crises globally, particularly protracted ones. We commend the Government of Bangladesh for its steadfast commitment to the entire Rohingya population seeking refuge in their country over the years. With this donation, we help restore the full ration, alleviate hunger and malnutrition, and contribute to their overall well-being. We take pride in standing with WFP and the people and Government of Bangladesh in this vital mission," remarked Sang Moon BYUN, Director of the Food Grain Policy Division, MAFRA.
"The donation is extremely timely and crucial to our efforts to restore the full ration for the Rohingya population. As their vulnerabilities continue to deepen amid reduced funding, unrelenting climate shocks, repeated hazards, and deteriorating security, our collective responsibility is to ensure their basic needs are met until they can go home safely one day. We thank MAFRA for this significant contribution and the Korean public for their solidarity with the Rohingya people," said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director.
Following the handover ceremony, the Korean delegation visited an e-voucher outlet in the camps to observe the distribution of the rice donation. They also toured a rice fortification plant in Cox’s Bazar, where the Korean rice is fortified.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has received a donation of 15,000 MT of rice from the Republic of Korea (ROK) for its lifesaving assistance for the Rohingya population in Bangladesh.
In the photo, (from left) Emmanuela Frank Bethuel Mashayo, Head of Area Office, Cox’s Bazar, WFP Bangladesh; Md. Mohsin, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Food; Md Hasan Sarwar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), and Head of Rohingya Cell; Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC); Md Kamrul Hasan, ndc, Secretary, MoDMR; Dom Scalpelli, Country Director, WFP Bangladesh; Seokjin HAN, Director; H.E. Young Sik Park, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh; Sang Moon Byun, Director of the Food Grain Policy Division at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of Korea; David Bugden, Principal Coordinator, Inter Sector Coordination Group.
For more information please contact:
Tareq Salahuddin, Communications Officer, WFP Bangladesh, tareq.salahuddin@wfp.org
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Press Release
04 July 2024
WFP Supports Recovery Efforts of Communities Affected by Cyclone Remal in Southern Bangladesh
DHAKA – In support of the government-led response to Cyclone Remal, the World Food Programme (WFP) has been engaging with affected communities through its cash-for-work programme to bolster their recovery and rebuilding efforts.Since June 25, nearly 6,000 households have participated in cash-for-work schemes led by WFP's Khulna field office. These activities focus on repairing and rebuilding critical infrastructure such as embankments, roads, and access routes that were badly damaged by the cyclone, utilising nature-based solutions whenever possible. Each family receives BDT 5,000 (USD 43) for 10 days of work.Some 41,500 households in affected areas will be assisted through cash-for-work, coupled with health, nutrition, and hygiene awareness messages. This response is being implemented in partnership with local NGOs Shushilan, Jagrata Juba Shangha (JJS), and Jago Nari, with close supervision by WFP engineers.The participating households are among the most vulnerable, including those in crisis and emergency levels of food insecurity (as identified by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification), households below the lower poverty line, day labourers without stable income, and other vulnerable groups.Before the cyclone’s landfall, WFP provided anticipatory action cash assistance of BDT 5,000 (USD 43) per household to 30,000 families. Since the cyclone’s passing, WFP has distributed fortified biscuits to over 42,000 families and cash assistance of BDT 5,000 (USD 43) per household to 45,000 households, enabling them to meet their essential food and nutrition needs.Cyclone Remal, which struck on May 26, is the most devastating storm to hit Bangladesh in over a decade. Nearly 5 million people across 19 districts in southern Khulna and Barishal divisions, as well as Dhaka division, were affected. The cyclone brought widespread flooding and waterlogging, causing significant damage to homes, crops, and infrastructure."Cyclone Remal has devastated millions of lives. Swift, coordinated efforts are essential to help affected communities recover and rebuild. WFP has been working hand in hand with the Government, providing timely responses such as food, cash, and cash-for-work where the needs are highest. These interventions not only help families meet their immediate needs but also build their long-term resilience to better withstand future climate shocks," said Simone Parchment, WFP Deputy Country Director and Officer-in-Charge.To sustain its response, WFP faces a funding gap of US$10.5 million out of a total requirement of US$16.6 million. For more information please contact: Tareq Salahuddin, Communications Officer, WFP Bangladesh, tareq.salahuddin@wfp.org
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Press Release
04 July 2024
OCOP Webinar showcased developments on jackfruit in Bangladesh
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) organized a webinar and a fair to showcase and promote processing and marketing of jackfruit in Bangladesh. Jingyuan Xia, Executive Secretary of the OCOP Secretariat and Wahida Akter, Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture, Chairperson of OCOP National Task Force participated the webinar today. The webinar will be followed by a fair, open to public, between 4-6 July at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) premises to promote entrepreneurship in jackfruit market for both fresh and processed products. Jackfruit is the Special Agricultural Products (SAPs) selected for FAO’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative.
The comprehensive webinar included various topics including implementation of the OCOP in Asia and the Pacific region, OCOP implementation in Bangladesh, overview of jackfruit research and value chain, development of micro and small-scale entrepreneurship in jackfruit value chains, private sector engagement in jackfruit value chain development in Bangladesh.
Jiaoqun Shi, FAO Representative in Bangladesh said “FAO Bangladesh has taken many steps to promote jackfruit since the launch of OCOP initiative last year, including the formation of OCOP National Task Force. We will continue our efforts in promoting jackfruit, the special product of Bangladesh. We also focus on improving jackfruit farmers livelihoods and their economic growth while minimizing the use of resources, reducing jackfruit loss and waste and lessening the negative impacts on the environment.”
Wahida Akter, Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture said, “Jackfruit is our national fruit and this is one of the most important and widely grown fruits in the country. The fruit significantly contributes to the nutrition of the people of Bangladesh as a source of vitamins, minerals and calories. Jackfruit has enormous potential for processing and value addition with the increasing demand both in the domestic and international markets”.
The webinar showcased experiences and lessons learned about jackfruit: Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) has developed six jackfruit varieties among which BARI Kathal 3 and BARI 6 produces fruits year-round. BARI also developed technologies for various processed products of jackfruit such as fresh cut, chips, pickle, jam, jelly etc. The project trained more than 300 jackfruit farmers and market actors on better production, post-harvest handling and management, processing and value addition of jackfruit.
Agronomists, practitioners, researchers and technical experts, private sector representatives, small and medium entrepreneurs involved in jackfruit industry participated the webinar as well as national government officials. OCOP Webinar aims to raise awareness of the OCOP initiative and promoting relevant technologies for the sustainable development of SAPs through their respective value chains; showcase the case study and lessons learned of jackfruit in Bangladesh and promote entrepreneurship in jackfruit market for both fresh and processed products through jackfruit fair.
This event serves as a forum to share knowledge, experiences and lessons learned in the sustainable production, processing and marketing of jackfruit in Bangladesh and inform different countries that are interested in implementing and promoting coffee or other SAPs through the OCOP initiative.
About OCOP
FAO launched the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative in September 2021 to contribute to the implementation of the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31 and promote inclusive, profitable, and environmentally friendly agrifood systems through the sustainable development of Special Agricultural Products (SAPs). In addition, the OCOP will help countries leverage their unique potential and identify products that are adapted to their specific production systems. Since 2021, over 80 Members from the five FAO regions have expressed their strong interest in the sustainable promotion of over 50 products. In the case of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, the chosen SAP was jackfruit.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact: berna.cetin@fao.org
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Press Release
29 June 2024
WFP Provides Emergency Food Assistance for Population Affected by Floods in Northeast Bangladesh
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) are providing emergency assistance to communities affected by the severe flooding in Sylhet and Sunamganj districts in northeast Bangladesh.Starting 27 June, WFP’s Sylhet Field Office, in support of the relief efforts of government authorities, began distributing fortified biscuits to over 23,000 families to help them meet their immediate food and nutritional needs.“Our priority is to ensure that the most vulnerable families, who were already facing hardships and are now having their lives and livelihoods upended again by the floods, can meet their essential food and nutritional needs,” said Simone Parchment, Deputy Country Director and Officer-in-Charge of WFP Bangladesh.The devastating floods, caused by continuous heavy rainfall in both Bangladesh and the upstream regions of India, have affected approximately 1.4 million people.The distribution of food assistance was done in partnership with local NGOs Friends In Village Development Bangladesh (FIVDB) and Center for Natural Resource Studies (CNRS).Following the distribution, WFP plans to continue its response through cash assistance for these 23,000 households and an additional 48,000 households that WFP has pre-identified as part of its preparedness efforts. For more information please contact:Tareq Salahuddin, Communications Officer, WFP Bangladesh, Email: tareq.salahuddin@wfp.org
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