This is a crucial time for Bangladesh, says new Unicef representative

Unicef's work is underpinned by a passion for and commitment to children's rights; and their day-to-day work is driven by a belief in the dignity and the potential of every child and young person, newly appointed Unicef Representative to Bangladesh Rana Flowers said today (4 September).

"This is a crucial time for Bangladesh. My heart is with the countless children, young people and families affected by the recent violence, as well as those impacted by the cyclone and recent flooding," she said while presenting her credentials to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Earlier on 5 August, she had assumed her duties as the representative. 

During her meeting, Flowers reaffirmed Unicef's strong support to advance the rights of every child in Bangladesh.

As Unicef Representative to Bangladesh, Flowers provides strategic leadership to Unicef's work to improve essential social services for children, including on child health and nutrition, water as well as for the protection of child rights.

She will also provide guidance to drive change in areas such as the climate crisis, juvenile justice and reinvigorate skills training through the educational system so young people can get better jobs.   

"Working hand in hand with the government, private sector, long-time partners of Unicef, and with children and adolescents, there is much to build on, and significant work still to be done," Flowers said.

Under the leadership of the new Representative, Unicef said it will continue to support the Interim Government to map out and deliver short as well as long-term change.

In doing so, Unicef will bridge the provision of urgent humanitarian support to those most impacted by the cyclone and flooding, with ongoing development work. Because every child matters, Unicef will also continue to focus on stronger protection of and respect for, the rights of children living in refugee camps.

A national of Australia, Flowers brings more than 35 years of experience working in international development, child development, and policy advocacy, including serving as Unicef Representative to Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Mongolia and Belize.

"I am inspired by the calls from the children and youth of Bangladesh for peace and to contribute to shaping a more prosperous future for all. We are listening," added Flowers.

"On behalf of Unicef, I commit our team to do all we can to support children and adolescents so that every child survives and thrives in an environment where non-violence, prosperity and opportunity prevail," she said.