Global climate strike observed in Bangladesh
More than 100 young people staged a climate strike on Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka on Friday, calling for an end to fossil fuel dependency and a just transition to renewable energy.
The demonstration, held under the slogan "No Future Without Nature", marked the Global Climate Strike, according to a press release.
Young representatives from 30 youth organisations across the country and eight global platform youth hubs joined the programme, alongside ActionAid Bangladesh.
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During the demonstration, activists displayed a giant "monster" made from discarded plastic to symbolise the harmful impact of plastic pollution and fossil fuels on the environment. They also staged a symbolic performance wearing masks to highlight health risks linked to fossil fuel use.
A rally was later held along Manik Mia Avenue.
Alongside Dhaka, thousands of young people took part in similar programmes in 27 districts, including Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal and Sylhet. Members of the Activista network also organised marches and rallies demanding climate justice.
Climate activist Nipa Saha said, "Emissions from fossil fuels are making our air toxic. To save the country from becoming uninhabitable, we must reduce our dependence on coal and oil without delay."
Another activist, Imran Ahmed Emon, stressed the need to ensure women's leadership and rights in climate action.
"Women are among the worst affected by climate change, yet their voices are heard the least. Ensuring women's leadership and rights is now essential for climate solutions rooted in justice," he said.
ActionAid Bangladesh Youth, Resilience and Climate Justice Team Lead Md Nazmul Ahsan said access to energy is a fundamental human right.
"To ensure environmental sustainability, increased investment in renewable energy instead of fossil fuels is essential. We stand with young people in their struggle to shape their own future," he said.
The Global Climate Strike is observed worldwide under the "Fund Our Future" campaign. In Bangladesh, a coalition of youth organisations joined the movement in solidarity with ActionAid Bangladesh's campaign.
