Harnessing youth power: the key to resilient Bangladesh

Increasing disasters driven by climate change pose significant risks to children and youth worldwide, with UNICEF estimating that around one billion children are at extremely high risk due to climate impacts. In 2022, the number of children affected by floods in countries like Chad, Gambia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh reached its highest level in over 30 years, leading to education, nutrition, and healthcare disruptions.

However, it's important to note that empowering children and education through education can help them protect themselves and become agents of change in their communities, especially in the context of initiatives like the UN's Early Warnings for All. In Bangladesh, youth have historically played a crucial role in advocating for social justice and community support, as seen in the recent quota movement and their active participation in flood rescue and relief efforts. Their commitment to addressing societal challenges highlights their leadership potential. It reinforces their vital contribution to the country's resilience and humanitarian landscape, invoking a sense of hope and optimism in the face of these challenges.

For instance, in the recent floods in Bangladesh, youth-led initiatives such as setting up temporary shelters, distributing relief materials, and providing first aid have been instrumental in mitigating the impact of the disaster. The impact of climate change and disasters on children and youth in Bangladesh is significant, as the country faces frequent natural hazards like floods and cyclones that disrupt education and hinder social and emotional development. These events increase risks of malnutrition and health issues, particularly for marginalised youth who lack access to clean water and healthcare. Recent extreme heatwaves have further disrupted schooling and threatened livelihoods, leading families to resort to child labour or early marriage as coping mechanisms. Despite these challenges, young people in Bangladesh are emerging as crucial agents of change, advocating for environmental awareness and resilience-building initiatives, showcasing their potential to create a more sustainable future for their communities.

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction highlights the critical role of youth in disaster risk management, recognising them as both vulnerable and active contributors to resilience-building. It advocates for their inclusion in decision-making processes, ensuring their innovative ideas shape disaster management planning. In Bangladesh, the next generation can serve as resilience agents by disseminating early warnings through technology and social media, training to make complex information accessible, and advocating for climate justice. Their roles could include developing inclusive strategies for preparedness and recovery, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and equity of response plans. Through these efforts, youth play a pivotal role in fostering a more resilient Bangladesh in the face of climate change and disasters.

Current climate change and disaster management policies in Bangladesh often overlook the active involvement of youth, resulting in significant gaps that hinder their potential as change agents. While these policies acknowledge the importance of community engagement, they typically lack specific provisions for youth participation in decision-making processes and implementation strategies. This is a critical issue that needs urgent attention, as there needs to be more investment in educational programs that equip young people with the skills and knowledge required for effective disaster response and climate adaptation. This disconnect limits youth access to resources, training, and platforms where they can voice their concerns and contribute solutions. Moreover, without targeted initiatives that recognize young people's unique vulnerabilities and capabilities, the policies may fail to address the multifaceted impacts of climate change on youth, ultimately undermining efforts to build a resilient and inclusive society. Emphasising the urgency of this issue invokes a sense of responsibility in the audience, urging them to take action.

At the UN Summit for the Future, Concern Worldwide emphasised the youth declaration urging world leaders to take bold, people-centred actions prioritizing global cooperation, sustainability, and climate justice, holding those responsible for climate damage accountable. This includes tackling interconnected issues such as hunger, poverty, conflict, and gender inequality and demands meaningful youth involvement in decision-making, the phase-out of fossil fuels, and investment in climate-resilient agriculture, mental health support, and job training. In Bangladesh, Concern Worldwide empowers youth through education, training, and community engagement, enhancing their skills in disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and leadership. By fostering partnerships between youth and local authorities, Concern ensures their voices are heard in policy discussions, equipping them to address climate challenges and build a resilient, sustainable future.

Empowering the next generation is essential for building a resilient Bangladesh, as youth are key drivers of innovation and change in the face of challenges such as climate change, political and economic shifts, and social inequality. By providing them with education, skills training, and more opportunities for civic engagement, young people can contribute to sustainable development and local governance, fostering community resilience. Their involvement in decision-making ensures that the strategies adopted reflect the needs and aspirations of future generations. As they lead initiatives in disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and economic diversification, empowered youth can help create a more adaptable and robust society, ultimately strengthening Bangladesh's capacity to navigate current and future challenges. Stressing the potential of youth to contribute to sustainable development invokes a sense of empowerment in the audience, inspiring them to support youth initiatives.

The author is an expert on

humanitarian and resilience sector,

and working as adviser in Concern

Worldwide, Bangladesh.

[email protected]