DHAKA, October 16, 2026: Young climate leaders in Bangladesh have called for meaningful youth participation in climate policymaking and improved access to climate finance ahead of COP31, stressing the need to translate youth-led initiatives into effective climate action.
The call came at a policy dialogue titled “Youth Voices & Actions for Climate Resilience 2026,” organized by the International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD) at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), on Thursday. The event was supported by the Swedish Embassy in Dhaka under the CAP-RES project.
The dialogue brought together young leaders, researchers, government officials, development partners and academics to discuss youth engagement in climate governance and funding opportunities for youth-led initiatives.
Participants called for recognising youth participation as a right, strengthening practical climate education, ensuring accountable representation and connecting grassroots communities with policymakers, particularly in climate-vulnerable areas outside Dhaka.
Speakers also emphasised the need to include young people and women in a just energy transition and address gender-specific climate vulnerabilities.
A separate discussion highlighted barriers to financing youth-led research, community projects and green businesses. Participants called for accessible funding information, appropriate financial instruments, mentorship and capacity building for both applicants and financing institutions.
ICCCAD Director Arif M. Faisal stressed the importance of supporting green entrepreneurship, university partnerships and access to research resources, including opportunities available through the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund.
The discussions come ahead of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, scheduled for November 9–20, 2026, as young climate advocates seek a stronger role in shaping climate policies, mobilising finance and strengthening resilience in vulnerable communities.
