Policy experts and environmental leaders in Bangladesh have called for an overhaul of the national and international climate finance framework. Speaking at a high-level conference in Dhaka, experts argued that global funding must become more transparent and far easier for local communities to access.
The discussions took place during a national policy dialogue organised by the development group HEKS/EPER Bangladesh and the Centre for Climate Justice Bangladesh. The initiative forms part of the Climate Action at Local Level project, supported by the Embassy of Switzerland.
Delegates stressed that local leaders and frontline populations should lead adaptation efforts in areas facing severe environmental risks. To support this work, participants urged authorities to draft a clear national implementation plan involving government institutions, civil society, and international partners.
A central focus of the conference was improving direct access to international money, including the Green Climate Fund. Speakers pointed out that global capital often fails to reach the rural areas where support is needed most.
Addressing the audience as chief guest, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr Saimum Parvez said that protecting the environment remains a shared duty across society. He noted that the government remains committed to creating a strong environmental strategy alongside international partners.
Dr Saimum Parvez set out three main commitments for the country, starting with the expansion of renewable energy to speed up the transition to clean power. He also highlighted plans for large tree-planting drives to build natural defences and the clearance of natural canals to manage flood risks.
The chargé d'affaires at the Embassy of Switzerland, Diepak Elmer, attended as guest of honour and reaffirmed Swiss support for local climate projects. During the event, climate negotiator Adv. M. Hafijul Islam Khan presented policy ideas to make the distribution of funds fairer and more open.
A panel discussion led by GAIN Country Director Dr Rudaba Khandakar examined current funding barriers. Key contributions came from Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Director Md Abujafar Ripon, CPRD Chief Executive Md Shamsuddoha, Change Initiative Chief Executive Officer Zakir Hossain Khan, UN Women Programme Specialist Dilruba Haider, BRAC University Director Dr Golam Rabbani, and Economics Professor Sharmind Neelormi.
Senior officials, including Economic Relations Division Additional Secretary AKM Sohel and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Additional Secretary Nurun Nahar, gave closing speeches. The event was guided by CALL Programme Director Farhana Afroz.
The gathering ended with a shared commitment to push for policy changes that ensure climate aid goes directly to the communities facing the greatest danger.
.jpg "Ship recycling industry key to economy, employment: Muktadir")
