A new European Union-funded initiative aimed at strengthening grassroots civil society organizations (CSOs) to advance climate justice, environmental protection and human rights in Bangladesh was launched at a national workshop in Dhaka on Sunday.
The project, titled "Empowering Civil Society for Climate Justice and Environment Protection," is being implemented by Welthungerhilfe (WHH) in collaboration with Educo, Manusher Jonno Foundation and Uttaran. It aims to strengthen the institutional capacity, advocacy skills and collaborative networks of grassroots organizations while promoting inclusive, locally led climate action and protecting the rights of climate-vulnerable communities.
The launch workshop brought together senior government officials, representatives of the European Union (EU), development partners, civil society organizations, academics, youth leaders, environmental experts and community representatives to discuss responses to the growing impacts of climate change.
The inaugural session featured remarks by Jonas Wiahl, country director of Welthungerhilfe Bangladesh, and Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Jonno Foundation. Afsari Begum, head of the project at Welthungerhilfe Bangladesh, presented the project's objectives, while representatives from climate-affected communities shared their experiences during a session moderated by Tazeen Hossain, head of program at Educo Bangladesh.
State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam attended the event as the chief guest.
He said: "We have to focus more on results. This project is funded by the European Union, and I admire them for their continuous support."
He added: "The government will support initiatives that bring positive change for people and the country."
Edwin Koekkoek, representing the Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting Bangladesh in addressing climate change and strengthening civic participation.
He said: "The EU remains fully committed to working with Bangladesh to address climate change, promote human rights and strengthen civil participation to ensure inclusive development."
Jonas Wiahl said the project's success would be measured not only by its activities but also by the partnerships and trust built among stakeholders.
Shaheen Anam said meaningful progress would require collaboration among civil society, local authorities and citizens' groups rather than relying on a single donor or organization.
A high-level panel discussion explored the role of civil society in promoting climate justice, environmental governance, human rights and community-led resilience. Speakers said climate change is not only an environmental challenge but also an issue of justice, equity and human rights.
Under the initiative, 18 grassroots organizations will receive Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP). The beneficiaries include women-led organizations, Indigenous Peoples' organizations, Dalit organizations and youth groups.
The project will strengthen their organizational capacity, advocacy and networking skills, evidence generation and monitoring of climate-related human rights issues, enabling them to participate more effectively in policy processes and environmental governance.
Speakers also highlighted localization, gender equality, social inclusion and community leadership as key principles guiding the initiative.
