Published: 31 May 2024
Countries with low carbon emissions bear the brunt of climate change, while high-emission countries evade their responsibilities with empty promises and rhetoric. Bangladesh, a core victim of climate change, often receives loans instead of the promised grants from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). To debate these crucial climate issues, students from 32 universities across the country gathered at the TSC auditorium today. The two-day event, organized by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) in collaboration with the Dhaka University Debating Society (DUDS), will conclude on June 1, 2024.
The theme of the debate competition is “Youth Perspective: Earth & Climate,” aiming to raise awareness among the next generation about climate governance and related issues. Today marked the inauguration of the event.
Anti-Corruption Oath and Climate Finance Thematic Session: During the inaugural session, TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman led an anti-corruption oath, inspiring the young participants to commit to integrity, accountability, and transparency. Hundreds of debaters took the oath, pledging to fight corruption. Following the oath ceremony, TIB Senior Research Fellow Md. Mahfuzul Haque delivered a speech on “Good Governance in Climate Funding for the Protection of the Earth,” focusing on climate finance.
Higher Climate Change Risks for the Next Generation: DU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Sitesh Chandra Bachar acknowledged TIB's role in combating corruption in Bangladesh and emphasized the importance of addressing climate change. He highlighted that countries like Bangladesh are not receiving compensation for the climate change impacts caused by developed nations. He stressed the necessity of youth involvement in this critical issue and expressed hope that the debate would spark meaningful discussions on climate funding and related issues.
TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman described climate change as 'discriminatory,' with countries like Bangladesh bearing the heaviest burden despite not being major contributors of carbon emission. He noted that marginalized communities suffer the most. He urged the youth to play a vital role in addressing climate change, as the failure of the current generation means the next will face even greater challenges. He encouraged students, emphasizing that there are no winners or losers in the competition, only opportunities to learn and grow.
Dhaka University Professor Dr. SM Shameem Reza thanked TIB for collaborating with DUDS to raise awareness. He highlighted that the debating process would prepare students for future leadership roles, teaching them how to discuss climate finance, negotiate internationally, and ensure good governance in their professions.
DUDS Secretary Adnan Mustari conducted the session, with TIB Director (Outreach & Communication) Mohammad Tauhidul Islam, DUDS Moderator Shamshad Nowrin, and DUDS President Arpita Goldar also in attendance.
