On December 8, 2024, Brighters, in collaboration with ActionAid Bangladesh, organized a Post-COP29 Dialogue titled “COP29 Reflection and Youth Perspectives”. The event brought together youth, government representatives, climate negotiators, experts, and policymakers to discuss key findings, decisions, and commitments made during COP29, emphasizing climate finance and adaptation. Dr. Ainun Nishat, Adviser and Professor Emeritus, and Ms. Roufa Khanum, Assistant Director at the Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research (C3ER), BRAC University, participated in the dialogue as esteemed panelists.
Dr. Ainun Nishat underscored the importance of staying informed about daily developments at COP conferences by attending press briefings organized by NGOs, civil society organizations, and national parties. His insights emphasized the critical role of continuous engagement with climate negotiations.
Ms. Roufa Khanum, addressing the role of youth, highlighted the necessity for young individuals to adequately prepare before participating in COP events. She remarked, “It is the responsibility of the elders to guide the youth and prepare them for the future,” stressing the importance of mentorship in building a knowledgeable and proactive generation of climate advocates.
The event provided a unique platform for Bangladeshi youth to gain firsthand insights into international climate commitments, reflect on their roles in addressing the climate crisis, and engage in discussions with negotiators and experts to equip participants with the knowledge and motivation to contribute to climate action actively. The dialogue reaffirmed the importance of bridging intergenerational knowledge gaps and empowering youth to become informed stakeholders in global climate efforts. This initiative reflects a collaborative effort to amplify the perspectives of Bangladeshi youth in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.
