Dhaka:Young climate leaders have called for more significant youth participation in climate policymaking and improved access to climate finance as COP31 approaches. This appeal was made during a policy dialogue titled 'Youth Voices and Actions for Climate Resilience 2026', organized by the International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD) at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB).
According to United News of Bangladesh, the event was supported by the Swedish Embassy in Dhaka under the CAP-RES project and gathered young leaders, researchers, government officials, development partners, and academics. Discussions centered on enhancing youth involvement in climate governance and securing funding for youth-led initiatives.
Participants emphasized recognizing youth engagement as a right, providing practical climate education, ensuring accountable representation, and strengthening connections between grassroots communities and policymakers, especially in climate-vulnerable regions outside Dhaka.
The importance of involving young people and women in a just energy transition and addressing gender-related climate vulnerabilities was also underscored by the panellists. A second panel focused on the funding challenges faced by youth-led research, community projects, and businesses, highlighting the need for suitable financial instruments, clearer funding information, mentorship, and capacity building for both applicants and financing institutions.
ICCCAD Director Arif M. Faisal called for enhanced support for green entrepreneurship, university partnerships, and access to research resources, including opportunities through the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund.