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Civil Societies of MVCs Demand NDC Targets for 1.5 Degree Goal: Meet cumulative overdue of 100 billion financing.

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equitybd
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Dubai, UAE, December 04, 2023 – During the ongoing Cop 28 Global Climate Conference in Dubai, leaders of Civil Society from Most Vulnerable Countries (MVCs) convened a press conference, highlighting the critical need for tangible National Determined Contribution (NDC) targets from major carbon emitters. Their emphasis is on concrete actions to achieve the 1.5-degree temperature goal outlined in the Paris Agreement. Additionally, they call on developed countries to fulfill their long-overdue commitment of US$100 billion in financing, as promised during CoP 15.

The press conference, titled “LDC’s & MVC Peoples’ Expectations and CoP 28,” took place at the CoP 28 climate conference center in Dubai. Representatives from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) including Md. Ziaul Hoque Mukta (CSRL), Md. Shamsuddoha (Centre for Participatory Research & Development), Mr. Shamim Arfeen (AoSED), Mr. Atle Solberg Platform on Disaster Displacement (PDD), Ms. Samah Hadid Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and Ms. Lidy Nacpil, Asia Pacific Movement on Debt & Development (APMDD) participated and shared their insights. The keynote address on civil society expectations was presented by Aminul Hoque from EquityBD, Bangladesh.

Aminul Hoque emphasized the challenge associated with the enforceability of the Paris Agreements, pointing out the absence of monitoring and reporting mechanisms for carbon emissions reduction. He criticized the CoP 28 presidency for denying the scientific basis behind achieving the Zero Emission target through the phased-out of fossil fuels. Hoque outlined key demands in favor of civil society, those are (i) developed countries must follow the scientific progress and set realistic target to achieve 1.5-degree temperature goal, (ii) They Must pay their cumulative overdue of 100 billion dollar climate finance as promised, iii Discourse of New & Collective Finance will be designed in focusing the MVCs priorities and non-debt instrumental, (iv) The synthesizing of NAP (National Adaptation Plan) will be defined as the GGA [Global Goal on Adaptation], because the NAP is prepared under UNFCCC process.

Md. Shamsuddoha opine the current process of mitigation is suicidal and he stressed the importance of establishing a mandatory timeline for submitting long-term mitigation strategies, holding all Parties accountable for a low-emission pathway, and achieving zero emissions by 2050 with a political commitment. He called for ambitious NDCs coherent with the 1.5-degree Celsius target, based on latest scientific findings.

Lidy Nacpil criticize the public finance finds itself at a crossroads. IFIs (International Financial Institutions)  and the global north governments who largely control them must stop their overreliance on the private sector. This approach that has consistently underdelivered and often caused great harm. We urgently need public finance policy, priorities, and governance to push to a 1.5-degree aligned, just transition, rooted in collective wellbeing and global and local equity. To do this, we will need to transform public finance institutions to be equitable, democratic, rights-upholding, sustainable, and transparent.  The “billions to trillions” mantra are completely unrealistic without significant changes to the system she added.

Atle Solberg expressed deep concern about displacement which is one of the major problems that is looming large at present and future context across the globe. In this context, we demand effective measures that will support the countries to address the climate induced displacement through ensuring their rights in locally and nationally.

Shamim Arfeen said that there trillion dollars available but the global leaders need to change their mindset to make the finance pro poor. Samah Hadid shared concerns about the rate of climate change occurring in the Middle East and North Africa and the lack of resources and financing to fragile and conflict affected contexts in the region. She called on states to increase financing for climate adaptation and resilience who are struggling to cope with climate change impacts. Ziaul Hoque Mukta of CSRL urges the Country Parties to strongly challenge the COP Presidency’s statement on end of fossil fuel delivered yesterday 03 December, which is against the fundamental context established the climate science and the formation of UNFCCC.

Download the related document [Bangla Press] [English Press]
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LDCs & MVCs Call for Urgent Action to Attain the 1.5-Degree Temperature Goal

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equitybd
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COAST and EquityBD jointly drafted a paper for CoP 28 in Dubai, urging action on behalf of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Most Vulnerable Countries (MVCs). The paper outlines critical needs, criticizes past negotiation failures since the Paris Agreement, emphasizes solidarity with CSOs, and presents key demands for fulfilling Paris Agreement goals.

Download the full report click here

Civil Societies Urge Govt. Position to 1.5-Degree Goal and Stand-Alone L&D Fund in CoP 28

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equitybd
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Dhaka, 11 November, 2023.  Civil society organizations (CSOs) demanded a strong govt position for a realistic NDC [National Determined Contribution] from the big emitters achieving 1.5-degree temperature goal in upcoming CoP 28 [Conference of the Parties] global climate conference.  They also advised government to demand for a stand-alone L&D Fund to manage the losses due to climate change impact.

The seminar was organized by COAST foundation, An Organization for Socio-Economic Development [AOSED], Bangladesh Climate Journalist Forum (BCJF),  Climate Action Network, South Asia-Bangladesh [CANSA-BD], Centre for Participatory Research & Development [CPRD] Coastal Development Partnership [CDP], Centre for Sustainable Rural Livelihood [CSRL], Equity and Justice Working Group, Bangladesh [EquityBD]), LEDERS, LDC Watch and moderated by Rezaul Karim Chowdhury of EquityBD. The seminar was chaired by Dr. Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmed, Chairman- Dhaka School of Economics and the Chief Guest was Mr. Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Member of Parliament (MP) , Special Envoy to the Prime Minister for Climate Change. Barrister Shameem Haider Patwary, MP was participated as special guest. Among others Mr. Ziaul Haque and Mr. Mirza Shawkat Ali, Directors, Department of Environment [DoE] Mr. Sharif Jamil, Water Keepers-BD, Md. Shamsuddoha of CPRD, Mr. Fazle Rabbi Sadeki Ahmed of PKSF, Ziaul Hoque Mukta of CSRL, M. Ahsanul Wahed of MJF, Mrs. Rabeya Begum, Chair-CANSA-BD, Mrs. Afsari Begum of Concern Worldwide, and many others spoke at the event. Aminul Hoque from EquityBD presented the key notes of the seminar.

Aminul Hoque emphasized the significance of CoP 28, noting its role in the first global stock take on Paris Agreement progress, highlighting failures in achieving targets. He criticized developed countries for their role in risking the 1.5-degree and finance goals, condemning the USA and allies for not reaching a common position on the L&D Fund. Hoque provided recommendations for the government negotiation team: 1) Big emitters should revise NDCs for a “Zero Emission” target by 2050, prioritizing 1.5-degree over “Net Zero.” 2) Advocate strongly for a stand-alone L&D fund in CoP 28. 3) Design a non-debt instrument for the New Climate finance architecture, prioritizing grants, highly concessional finance, and CBDR&RC for MVCs in the fight against climate change.

Mr. Saber Hossen Chowdhury underscores the deficiencies in the current UNFCCC process, noting its inability to facilitate vital decisions if opposed by a single country. He urges a concentrated effort to reform the process, pointing out that the prevailing conditions are leading to a deepening crisis and diminishing success. With the upcoming CoP holding significant importance, especially with the Global Stock Take (GST) focusing on the 1.5-degree target, he emphasizes the need for a targeted approach based on updated scientific understanding.

Barrister Shamim Haider paints a stark picture of global climate negotiations, describing it as a sinking ship with limited prospects for substantial outcomes. The challenge, as he sees it, lies in the ineffective presentation of issues at CoP, necessitating thorough preparation in the form of a vulnerability assessment and a climate finance model that can garner expected acceptance from the global community.

Ziaul Hoque Director-DoE advocates for country-driven climate action over legally binding options, emphasizing the reduction of GHG emissions. Mr. Fazle Rabbi Sadeki highlights the issue of climate funds for adaptation coming as loans, creating a debt-trap for LDCs. Mr. Sharif Jamil stresses the need to combat global north emitters while safeguarding national interests. Ziaul Hoque Mukta and others demand a new climate regime and parliamentary approval for the Paris Agreement.

Download related paper: [Bangla Press] [English Press] [Position Paper Bangla] [Position Paper English] [Presentation]
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Call for Legal Action to Combat Online Harassment of Women: Rights Groups’ Press Conference to Celebrate International Rural Women’s Day (IRWD)

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equitybd
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Dhaka, 14 October 2023. Rights-based civil society representatives urge legal action along with widespread awareness to prevent sexual harassment and other harassment against women and girls online. This was urged from a virtual press conference organized today on the occasion of the International Rural Women’s Day tomorrow. The press conference was organized by the National Committee for International Rural Women’s Day Observation. Speakers at the press conference emphasized that girls and women are constantly harassed through offensive content, leaks, extortion, hacking, and sexual harassment on the internet and the level of harassment is increasing day by day due to the lack of minimum knowledge about internet security. The speakers urged the use of various government ‘help desks’ for legal assistance as well as active prevention of cybercrime among women and girls.

Tamanna Rahman presented the keynote on behalf of the organizers at the press conference while it was chaired by Shamima Akhtar, chairman of the International Rural Women’s Day Observation National Committee. The press conference was moderated by Ferdous Ara Rumee of COAST Foundation. National Committee members Karim Box (Sherajgong), Manju Ara Parveen( Khulna),  Md. Enamul Haque ( Jamlpur), Khondokar Faruque Ahmed ( Mymensingh), Syeda Shamima Sultana (Dhaka). Mrs Mahin Khan (Manikgonj), Mustafa Kamal Akanda (IRWD-Secretariat) and others also spoke.

In her keynote, Tamanna Rahman highlighted the escalating online harassment as information technology usage grows in the country. Recent research by the NGO Aio O Shalish Kendro (ASK) revealed alarming statistics, with over 36% of girls experiencing sexual harassment from male friends online, 27% from known adults or relatives, and 18% from unknown adults. A global survey indicates that 58% of women on social media have faced some form of harassment. Tragically, one in five victims’ resort to suicide, and many suffer from mental health issues. Furthermore, one in three female victims reported the abuser’s ID. Notably, Facebook is the most common platform for harassment, with 39% of girls targeted there, and followed by 23% on Instagram, 14% on WhatsApp, and 9% on Twitter. These findings are based on a study by Plan International, which interviewed 14,000 adolescents, young women, and women from 22 countries. The need for caution in sharing personal information, photos, and videos, as well as the importance of legal actions, should be emphasized, starting with families.

Manju Ara Parveen said, “We should be especially careful when making friends with someone on Facebook or any other social media platform. Educational institutions can play a crucial role in creating awareness in this regard.” Syeda Shamima Sultana said, “Personal information and photos should not be shared with anyone. We should also avoid going to secluded places to take pictures.”

Ferdous Ara Rumee mentioned that there are help desks available for victims of online violence and cyber harassment. You can report such incidents to organizations like the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime’s Cyber Crime Investigation Division, Cyber Police Centre, Police Cyber Support for Women (PCSWW), Hello City App, Report to RAB App, 999, and through the respective Facebook pages. Shamima Akhter suggested that government should engage with social media companies to combat online harassment. They should ensure these companies take action against fake IDs, harassing posts, audio, videos, and similar content.

Mustafa Kamal Akanda, speaking on behalf of the organizers, shared that International Rural Women’s Day is celebrated in over 50 districts of the country. The day involves various activities such as rallies, seminars, community events, fairs, and recognition of rural women’s contributions in different fields.

Download Related Paper [Bangla Press] [English Press] [Leaflet]
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Civil Societies demand compensation and grant base climate finance from developed countries instead loan

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equitybd
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Dhaka, 12th October 2023: Today a civil society network led by EquityBD, called to the developed countries [Global Norths] and their allies IFIs [International Financial Institutions] to cancel all the debts those are related with climate financing and demand for compensation and grant-based financing instead of loan. They also criticized the existing WB [World Bank], ADB [Asian Development Bank] JICA [Japan International Cooperation Agency], and their role in making the LDCs [Least Developed Countries] and CVCs [Climate Vulnerable Countries] indebtedness in the name climate finance.

The demands above made in a human chain organized and participated by CSO networks name Bangladesh Krishak Federation [BKF], Center for Participatory Research and Development [CPRD], Equity and Justice Working Group Bangladesh [EquityBD], Global Law Thinkers Society [GLTS], Nirapad Development Foundation [NDF], Upakul Surokhha Andolon, Youth Net for Climate Justice and Water Keepers and many others. The session moderated by Mostafa Kamal Akand of COAST Foundation.

Aminul Hoque of EquityBD said that the SAP [Structural Adjustment Program] prescribed by IFIs in 1980s has repatriated trillion dollars of resources from LDCs to developed countries. Now they come with a new global issue called it “Climate Finance” and pushing LDCs and CVCs in another one debt trap again. He also opines the Paris Agreement as unfair, and its financing process is unfair indeed. So, financing process must be unconditional under the agreement and be supported as compensation to poor countries for fighting climate change.

Mr. Sharif Jamil of Water Keepers opine Bangladesh and like other poor countries already in their trap because of their debt driven policy support in addressing climate change. He examples on JICA driven Integrated Energy & Power Master Plan – 2030 is faulty and will create external dependency for Bangladesh. He alert government to carful step with this faulty policy action and demand effective support.

Nikhil Cahndra Bhadra of Upakul Surokhha Andolon says poor countries already merged their resources for debt payment and reducing the public expenditures for agriculture and other essential and pro poor services that causing poverty aggravated further. The vicious cycle of debt dependence also ever worsening climate catastrophe and weakening the state capacity of fighting climate change, that’s why climate debts must be cancelled.

Badrul Alam criticize the IFIs yet to change their anti-poor role which rally frustrated. Now they again start with so called policy support those in fact debt creating and debt burdening for CVCs. He treated the existing global financial process is fully exploitative ease for resource drainage. So that a new financial architecture under UN [United Nation] process that will democratic, participatory, and sustainable for all countries he demands.

Mr. Rezaul Karim Chowdhury of EquityBD express worries to current external debt is USD 1100 per capita that looming crisis and unable to pay. He recalls the PM [Prime Minister] commitment for discard any loan addressing climate actions and urge to keep this commitment with moving for a sustainable climate finance strategy for our country instead loan.

Related document download [Bangla Press Release] [English Press Release] [EquityBD Position Paper Bangla] [EquityBD Position Paper English] [Day of Coordinated Actions] [All Festoons Placards]

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Right Based CSO Demand Climate Justice Free from Fossil Fuels

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equitybd
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Dhaka, 15 September, 2023: Today a group of rights-based organizations united their voices to advocate for a future free from the constraints of fossil fuels. They organized a human chain in Dhaka The human chain was jointly organized by Waterkeepers Bangladesh, EquityBD, Brotee, Sundarban and Upakul Surakka Andolan, Youth Net for Climate Justice, Centre for Participatory Research and Development, Global Law Thinkers Society, Bangladesh Krishaka Federation, and Bangladesh Cycle Lane Bastabayn Parishad.

During the event, speakers emphasized the critical role of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, scheduled for September 20th in New York, USA, as a pivotal global platform for deliberating and resolving international issues, due to its representation of all member states. Simultaneously, the UNSDG Climate Ambition Summit’23, announced by the UN Secretary-General, holds the promise of much-needed reforms in climate policy making. Nevertheless, the positions of affluent and industrialized nations in these forums continue to impede progress toward meaningful climate change solutions.

Speakers further expressed their concerns that, despite impassioned pleas from international organizations and climate-affected nations, representatives at the 2023 COP-27 summit failed to reach a consensus on transitioning away from fossil fuel-dependent energy systems. Previous efforts to combat climate change were thwarted by the resistance of numerous countries seeking to safeguard their financial and business interests. The intransigence of wealthy nations has obstructed the implementation of critical climate initiatives. Additionally, countries in the Global North have aggressively bolstered their non-renewable energy production with substantial subsidies and incentives. In 2022 alone, G-7 nations poured $1.4 trillion into fossil fuels, nearly doubling pre-pandemic levels. The G-20, another group of prosperous nations, appears poised to perpetuate their reliance on fossil fuels, endangering global climate efforts.

The speakers also drew attention to various countries’ actions, such as the United States and the United Kingdom’s plans for new gas fields, Japan’s ambitious pursuit of the Asian LNG market, China and Korea’s expansion of fleet capacity, and India and Indonesia’s intention to continue coal-based energy usage for economic growth. These actions, they contended, demonstrate a shocking disregard for the climate crisis. While powerful nations articulate lofty rhetoric in international forums, their true intentions are becoming increasingly evident. Climate change is viewed by these nations as a new arena in which to assert dominance. They treat climate change as they would any other national security concern, prioritizing self-protection from its adverse effects and seeking to establish dominance in the realm of climate diplomacy on the global stage.

The organizers of today’s human chain event underscored the critical importance of disseminating information about climate change and the imperative of abandoning fossil fuels to the media, organizations, and the general public. They called for unwavering support for the discontinuation of fossil fuel use and urged the widespread dissemination of this demand. This event, held simultaneously across the country, including Dhaka, is part of a global movement aimed at mobilizing public opinion for climate justice and advocating against the use of fossil fuels.

Press Release [Englsh]

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Rights Based Citizen Groups Call for Immediate Shift from Fossil Fuels to Renewable Energy Sources

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equitybd
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Dhaka, September 8, 2023. Today, a group of prominent civil society organizations and concerned citizens organized a human chain, cycle rally and mime event in the lead-up to the G-20 conference in New Delhi, India, scheduled for September 9-10, 2023. The event was jointly organized by Waterkeepers Bangladesh, COAST Foundation, EquityBD, Brotee, Sundarban and Upakul Surakka Andolan, Youth Net for Climate Justice, Centre for Participatory Research and Development, Global Law Thinkers Society, Bangladesh Krishak Federation, and Bangladesh Cycle Lane Bastabayn Parishad. Speaking at the event, Sharmin Murshid, Chief Executive of Brotee and event chair, emphasized that G-20 countries bear significant responsibility for the climate crisis. Excessive carbon emissions from these nations have resulted in a severe global climate crisis. Murshid called upon these countries to fulfill their obligations by providing technical support to global south nations instead of ensnaring them in debt. She also stressed the need for the G-20 conference to translate declarations into concrete actions for the benefit of affected countries.

Sharif Jamil, Coordinator of Waterkeepers Bangladesh, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that climate change has pushed countries like Bangladesh into a severe crisis. While each G-20 conference produces numerous commitments, their implementation has been lacking. Jamil urged the G-20 to devise effective plans for compensating vulnerable countries and not perpetuate debt burdens.

Badrul Alam, President of Bangladesh Krishak Federation, expressed disappointment in the G-20’s inability to uphold its commitments made since 2009 to reduce fossil fuel usage. He emphasized the need for economic, trade, and climate justice and called for a shift in G-20 countries’ roles in favor of poorer nations.

Nikhil Chandra Bhadra, Coordinator of Sundarban Upakul Surrakka Andolan, highlighted the escalating natural disasters in coastal areas due to climate change, endangering the Sundarbans and forcing coastal communities to migrate. He urged poorer countries to unite and mobilize against wealthier nations.

Al Emran of the Centre for Participatory Research and Development demanded that developed nations compensate developing nations for their climate change-induced debt relief.

The event featured compelling mime performances by Mime Action, Dhaka University, illustrating the plight of climate migrants and the issue of deforestation. Additionally, more than 100 cyclists from Bangladesh Cycle Lane Bastabayn Parishad participated in a cycle rally to raise awareness of climate issues.

Prominent civil society figures, including Rauman Smita, President of Global Law Thinkers; S.S. Siddique, Advisor of the Competition Commission; S.Z. Apu, Coordinator of Youth Net; and Sanat Kumar Bhowmik, Deputy Executive Director of COAST Foundation/EquityBD, addressed the human chain, advocating for climate and economic justice.

The G-20 conference, with the theme “Bhasudhaibha Ktumbakum” or “One Globe, One Family, One Future,” is attended by the leaders of 19 countries and is taking place in New Delhi from September 9 to 10, 2023. Established in 1999, the G-20 has addressed climate change, trade, health, and other global issues but has yet to achieve climate and economic justice for less fortunate nations. This campaign is concurrently taking place in 10 Asian countries, coordinated by the Asian Peoples Movement on Debt and Development (APMDD).

Download Press Release [English] [Bangla]

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CSOs for Justice and Accountability for Ethnic Genocide in Myanmar, Global Double Standards on Rohingya Crisis are Strongly Condemn

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equitybd
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Dhaka, 24 August, 2023. On August 25, 2017, nearly 1 million Rohingya refugees fled Myanmar’s brutal genocide, seeking refuge in Bangladesh. As the 6th year of this tragic event approaches, Cox’s Bazar CSO and NGO Forum (CCNF) along with Equity and Justice Working Group Bangladesh (EquityBD) have issued a joint statement demanding justice and accountability for the ethnic genocide. The organizations also strongly condemn the global community’s double standards in addressing the Rohingya crisis.

The statement underscores that despite six years passing, a sustainable resolution to the crisis remains elusive. Bangladesh’s compassionate act of opening its borders to provide sanctuary for the oppressed Rohingya community has now placed the responsibility of resolving the crisis largely on the nation.

The statement emphasizes that addressing the Rohingya crisis should have been a collaborative effort involving international organizations, particularly the United Nations, which has been hindered by certain member states’ negative influence. This failure exposes a substantial gap in the UN’s designated role and raises concerns about the credibility of various countries and organizations.

The joint statement from CCNF and EquityBD strongly denounces the inconsistent positions taken by multiple nations and organizations concerning the Rohingya crisis. It asserts that Myanmar’s military junta is systematically conducting ethnic genocide against the Rohingya population in Rakhine. The organizations urge the imposition of strict penalties on those responsible for the atrocities.

The statement highlights the ongoing suffering of the Rohingya people, who continue to endure the aftermath of brutalities committed by the Myanmar army. Despite undeniable evidence of ethnic genocide, the United Nations and several nations have failed to take decisive action, revealing a distressing hypocrisy.

CCNF and EquityBD call upon Western nations and human rights organizations to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete actions. While acknowledging their role in advocating for refugee rights, the organizations stress the need for a resolute response to the Rohingya crisis, rooted in genuine commitment to justice.

The organizations point out the systemic failure of global mechanisms in addressing the Rohingya crisis. The unchecked actions of the Myanmar army and the repeated inability of the UN to address the issue highlight the gravity of the situation, underscoring a troubling hypocrisy.

CCNF and EquityBD also highlight the evident double standards present. Some Western nations, while vocal in supporting refugee rights, have inadequately addressed the Rohingya crisis, revealing an incongruity between their advocacy for Rohingya refugees and their silence on the atrocities committed by the Myanmar army.

Amid these concerns, the vulnerability of Rohingya refugees has escalated due to insufficient funding. The 2023, seeking USD 876 million, remains only 24.6% funded as of June 1. This dire situation has led to cutbacks in crucial programs and activities, affecting the refugees’ basic needs.

The joint statement concludes with a plea to the international community for immediate action, a unified global response, urgent funding and support, diplomatic pressure for safe repatriation, and an end to complicity in supporting Myanmar’s government.

Download [Bangla Press] [English Press] [Statement on Rohingya]

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Speakers Call for Aid Workers’ Safety and Local Leadership in Humanitarian Response

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equitybd
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Virtual Discussion on World Humanitarian Day 2023

Dhaka, 19 August 2023: Speakers emphasized the paramount importance of ensuring the safety and security of aid workers in Bangladesh, particularly those engaged in humanitarian responses to the Rohingya crisis. They spoke during a virtual dialogue organized by COAST Foundation, Cox’s Bazar CSO-NGO Forum (CCNF) and BDCSO Coordination Process on the occasion of World Humanitarian Day.

The virtual dialogue, titled “No Matter What – Together we stand beside affected communities – Empower local actors,” was moderated by M Mustafa Kamal Akanda, Director of COAST Foundation. The event’s keynote presentation was delivered by Md. Iqbal Uddin from the same organization. Distinguished participants included Mr. Abu Morshed Chowdhury, Co-Chair of Cox’s Bazar CSO-NGO Forum (CCNF); Mr. Ariful Islam, Chief Executive of YPSA; Ms. Nilima Jahan of Agrajatra; Amir Hossain of NGO Platform; Sheikh Asad of Udayan Bangladesh; Khandakar Faruk Ahmed associated with Trinomul Unnayan Sangtha (TUS) Foundation; and Mujibur Rahman, Advisor of Shushilan. The occasion was inaugurated by Sanat Kumar Bhowmik, Deputy Executive Director of COAST Foundation.

During his keynote presentation, Md. Iqbal Uddin outlined vital recommendations. These encompassed advocating for the welfare, dignity, and survival of all, condemning acts against aid workers, and ensuring equitable compensation, essential facilities, life insurance, and comprehensive local staff support. He also emphasized dedicating 25% of direct funding to local organizations.

Abu Murshed Chowdhury acknowledged the pivotal role of frontline aid workers in humanitarian responses. He advocated for a risk-sharing concept that involves all partners, including donors, to ensure project design incorporates risk management.

Ms. Nilima Jahan emphasized the need to create a positive environment for female humanitarian workers at camp levels and provide them with necessary logistical support. Khandakar Faruk Ahmed suggested allowing non-registered organizations to work as associated entities in emergency projects. Amir Hossain of NGO Platform advocated for direct funding from donors to local organizations to minimize costs and promote local leadership. Sheikh Asad highlighted the need for effective implementation of the Grand Bargain agreement. Mujibur Rahman, Advisor of Shushilan, called for equal treatment of local, national, and INGOs and urged the implementation of the Grand Bargain. Arifur Rahman of YAPSA stressed the need for direct funding to Bangladeshi NGOs to ensure cost-effectiveness, as intermediary organizations often absorb a significant amount of funds as their overhead or operational costs, leaving local organizations at the forefront without the necessary support.

Download Press Release [Bangla] [English]
Leaflet for World Humanitarian Day 2023 [Bangla] [English]
Presentation for World Humanitarian Day 2023 [Bangla] [English]

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Civil Society Calls for Corruption-Free, Accessible Healthcare System with Self-Reliant Pharmaceutical Industry

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equitybd
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Dhaka, July 20, 2023. Under the TRIPS Agreement of the World Trade Organization, Bangladesh must grant product patents to multinational companies who will then hold monopoly rights over the production, distribution and pricing of critical medicines and push out generic production. Until 2026, and maybe for a few years after, Bangladeshi pharmaceutical companies can produce these medicines without any MNC exerting monopoly control. However, after that period, medicine prices will increase significantly. To ensure medicine availability for all, civil society representatives suggest the Patent Act of 2022, while going in the right direction, must address existing loopholes and make full use of TRIPS flexibilities. Bangladesh must also achieve self-reliance in raw materials (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) through supportive policies, and keep the entire health sector corruption-free. These recommendations were discussed at a seminar organized by the COAST Foundation in collaboration with the Third World Network at CIRDAP auditorium in the capital.

The seminar, “Bridging the Gap: TRIPS and Enhanced Access to Medicines in Bangladesh,” was presided over by Dr. Kazi Khalquezzaman Ahmad, Chairman of Palli Karma Shahayak Foundation. The event was moderated by Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Executive Director of COAST Foundation, with Md. Mujibul Haque Munir presenting the keynote. Other speakers included Dr. Sudip Choudhuri, Former Professor of Indian Institute of management,  Rashid -E-Mahbub, President of the National Committee on Health Movement, Farida Akhtar of Ubinig, Sharif Jamil of Waterkeeper Bangladesh, Ranja Sengupta and Pratibha Sivasubramanian of the Third World Network.

Md. Mujibul Haque Munir stressed the importance of medicine availability, as 44% of healthcare expenses in Bangladesh are spent on medicines. The pharmaceutical industry has made significant progress, meeting around 98% of the country’s demand and exporting medicines to approximately 147 countries. However, the country currently does not pay fees for patented medicines, which might change once it becomes a developing country. He proposed several recommendations, including self-reliance in raw materials, emphasis on research and development in the pharmaceutical sector, fighting corruption in the health sector, and ensuring universal health insurance for all.

Dr. Sudip Choudhuri emphasized the need for Bangladesh to achieve self-reliance in raw materials for medicines, requiring government policy support to establish a domestic raw material market. Prathibha Sivasubramanian called for amendments to the Patent Act 2022, suggesting water tight provisions and high threshold of granting patents so as to disallow patents to new use and new forms of old drugs, more grounds should be added to facilitate domestic companies to obtain Compulsory Licenses and manufacture necessary medicines. She also stressed the importance of transparency in the patent process. Farida Akhtar highlighted the significance of not treating medicine as a mere product and addressed the issue of domestic companies engaging in monopolistic practices. Dr. Rashid E. Mahbub stressed the need for increased funding for research and political will to achieve accessible medicine for all and resolve pharmaceutical industry challenges.

Dr. Kazi Khalikuzzaman Ahmad proposed a joint research system between universities and pharmaceutical companies, requiring policy and financial support from the government. He also emphasized developing skilled manpower to adapt to future industry changes and increasing allocation for the entire health sector. Rezaul Karim Chowdhury acknowledged Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical achievements but urged the country to become self-reliant in the industry within the next eight years to ensure affordable medicine access for all.

Please download related paper [Bangla Press] [English Press] [Presentation]

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