Bangladesh seeks climate justice: Rizwana

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Tuesday said Bangladesh seeks climate justice as the country suffers from the impacts of climate change.

“Although Bangladesh suffers from the impacts of climate change, it is one of the least responsible for causing it. While the country expects financial support from developed nations, it has received very little,” she said.

She questioned that how much funding would be required to protect coastal districts and small island nations.

The adviser made these remarks as the chief guest this evening at a reception celebrating "Youth and Climate Change in the Commonwealth," held at the Westin Hotel in Dhaka’s Gulshan area, read a press release.

This event was hosted by the Australian High Commission, in collaboration with Commonwealth Missions in Bangladesh.

Rizwana urged young people to challenge current development models and create their own narratives, stressing the importance of rejecting fossil fuels to secure the future for children.

She also emphasised that Bangladesh’s youth are at the forefront of climate action, noting their passion and innovation as vital to overcoming climate change challenges.

Platforms like the Commonwealth, she said, can empower young people to take meaningful actions for a sustainable future.

Nardia Simpson, Australian Acting High Commissioner, also spoke at the event, reaffirming Australia’s commitment to support Bangladesh’s climate efforts through youth programmes and capacity-building initiatives.

She laid emphasis on the need to empower students in these efforts.

Maldives High Commissioner to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed also addressed the programme.

The event brought together diplomats, climate activists, youth representatives, and government officials to discuss how Commonwealth countries can collaborate to promote youth leadership in climate initiatives.