In light of the recently concluded COP27, it is encouraging to see that the UN is in talks with Bangladesh on ways to collaborate further on the effects of climate change as well as the ongoing Rohingya refugee crisis.
On Sunday, the UN resident coordinator in Bangladesh and the state minister for foreign affairs discussed approaches to strengthen cooperation on a number of issues, including the climate crisis and Rohingya repatriation.
The UN is reportedly set to begin a number of initiatives that could assist with the socio-economic development of various areas in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, and also intends to bring the Joint Response Plan (JRP) into effect in the coming year.
That such discussions are being initiated is reassuring, as support from the UN has been of vital importance for Bangladesh to tackle a number of ongoing crises.
However, as has been the unfortunate reality till now, these conversations are often left at that, with little to no tangible actions taken to put the words into effect.
At this point in time, it is crucial that the UN takes necessary steps that reflect their commitment towards assisting us on these urgent matters.
As has been established repeatedly, the climate crisis has had deadly impacts on our country, and for a developing nation like ours, external help is the only way for us to successfully mitigate its adverse effects, particularly since we have played no part in causing these devastating impacts.
In addition, the Rohingya crisis has been a burden to bear for Bangladesh alone, and the international community and powers like the UN must do their part in resolving a humanitarian crisis of this magnitude.
While Bangladesh has done an exemplary job of dealing with both these issues so far, it is undeniable that we are in need of assistance to put these matters to rest.
We sincerely hope that the UN will follow through with their promises, and with their support, we can finally reach a sustainable solution for the overall well-being of our country and our people.
