Development organisation Leaders on Saturday observed ‘Global Action Day 2025’ in Shyamnagar upazila, calling for climate justice and urgent global action ahead of the COP30 summit.
The event aimed to amplify the voices of coastal communities who continue to face the worst impacts of climate change.
The programme, held at the Micro Stand area, brought together civil society members, women, youth groups, farmers, fishers, journalists, political leaders and representatives of various social organisations.
A human chain and a discussion session highlighted the deepening crisis in the coastal region, including humanitarian distress and environmental degradation.
Speaking at the event, Nazrul Islam, Bir Muktijoddha and President of the Upazila Climate Advisory Forum, said the effects of climate change are now evident in every aspect of life along the coast.
“Cyclones and tidal surges are destroying homes, river erosion is displacing families and the scarcity of safe drinking water has become extreme. At COP30, we urge world leaders to take decisions that protect the survival of coastal people,” he said.
Forum General Secretary Ranjit Kumar Barman warned that rising salinity is reducing crop production, harming farmers and drying up freshwater sources.
“Many families are still waiting for rehabilitation. Without increasing investment in climate adaptation, coastal communities will face even greater crises,” he said, adding that Bangladesh must push more strongly to secure its rights in international climate finance.
Climate-affected woman Hironnmoyee Rani from Ishwaripur Union shared her struggle after Cyclone Amphan: “Our home was washed away, and saline water ruined our land. We walk several kilometres just to get drinking water. I came today hoping that our suffering will reach global leaders.”
Youth representative Mosammat Seema Parvin said the young generation is facing severe uncertainty due to climate impacts on jobs, education and water security. “Coastal youth are ready to play a more active role in demanding climate justice,” she added.
Organisers from Leaders stressed the need for stronger international cooperation to ensure resilient livelihoods, safe water, sustainable agriculture, healthcare and disaster-proof infrastructure in coastal areas. They emphasised the urgency of activating climate adaptation and compensation funds, as women, children and marginalised communities remain the most vulnerable.
Speakers concluded that initiatives like Global Action Day 2025 will help raise coastal voices on global platforms. They expressed hope that effective action from world climate leaders could significantly improve living standards and safety for the region’s vulnerable populations.
