On April 11, thousands of young climate activists rallied on Manik Mia Avenue in front of the National Parliament of Bangladesh. They joined the Global Climate Strike, a movement that demands urgent action to tackle climate change, calling for an end to fossil fuel financing, more renewable energy, and increased investments in sustainable agriculture.
During the rally, participants urged world leaders to stop funding destructive fossil fuel projects. They also protested against ongoing violence in Palestine, highlighting the interconnectedness of climate and social justice. After the rally, the activists marched through various neighborhoods, chanting for climate justice, unity, and swift action to protect the planet.
The activists expressed concerns about how wealthier nations contribute to climate change by prioritizing profits over people. This mindset often leads to widespread environmental harm, especially impacting vulnerable communities in the Global South. Young people, farmers, and women are among those most affected, facing increased hardships due to climate change.
Recent statistics underline the severity of the climate crisis. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperatures are set to rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels as early as 2030 if current trends continue. This could lead to more extreme weather events, food shortages, and displacement of populations.
At the forefront of the rally, young activist Sadia Akter emphasized the urgent need for action. She pointed out that if voices like theirs are not heard now, future generations might not have a world to inherit. Another activist, Rokon Ahmed, highlighted that the climate crisis is akin to a pandemic, affecting millions every day through displacement and loss of biodiversity. He stressed that it’s not just an environmental issue but a fight for justice and equality.
Experts agree that youth engagement in climate activism is crucial. Md. Nazmul Ahsan from ActionAid Bangladesh stated that young activists play a vital role in holding decision-makers accountable. He believes that there should be a shift away from fossil fuel investments toward renewable energy and sustainable practices. He noted that the Global North must take responsibility in the struggle for climate justice by providing technology and resources to less developed regions.
Across Bangladesh, about 3,000 young people from multiple organizations joined forces, demonstrating a united front for climate action. They held local demonstrations in many districts, including Satkhira, Bagerhat, and Chattogram, showing that the push for climate justice is a widespread movement.
As this activism grows, it invites a wider dialogue about sustainability and equity. The combination of local and global efforts underscores the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for collective action to combat it. The future, as the rallying cries emphasized, must prioritize the health of the planet and its people above all else.
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