Dhaka:Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad, Md Nurul Islam Moni, emphasized that Bangladesh does not seek sympathy or charity but instead demands global climate justice to address the severe impacts of climate change affecting the nation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Moni highlighted that despite Bangladesh contributing only 0.47 percent to global carbon emissions, the country faces some of the most severe climate change consequences. He made these remarks at a program titled "Bangladesh at COP31 From National Priorities to Global Climate Action" held at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in Dhaka, organized by the Ajker Projonmo Forum (APF) with support from the Young Climate Action Network.
Moni outlined the challenges posed by rising salinity in river water, which is causing a shortage of safe drinking water in coastal areas such as Barguna and Khulna, and negatively impacting fisheries and agriculture. He further described how floods are annually devastating homes, crops, and livelihoods, highlighting the high costs ordinary citizens bear due to climate change.
He asserted that Bangladesh, having never contributed to global conflict or weapon manufacturing, is unjustly suffering from the historical carbon emissions of developed countries. Moni called for streamlined access to climate finance, emphasizing transparency and the direct delivery of assistance to those affected by climate change.
The Chief Whip urged stakeholders to prioritize Bangladesh's climate concerns and the demands of youth at the upcoming COP31 conference, stressing that young people's collective efforts are vital for the nation to secure its rightful claims in combating climate change. He also called for stronger international recognition of Bangladesh's rights in addressing climate-related damages.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Saimum Parvez, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Dr. Susan Vize, UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh; and Sonali Dayaratne, UNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh, alongside representatives from organizing bodies, youth delegates, and media professionals.