Youth Meet Minister of Environment: Pushing for Real Policy Inclusion

Date: 22 July 2025 | Location: Dhaka

The Young Climate Action Network (YOUCAN) held a focused dialogue with Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Hon’ble Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, centering on youth inclusion in climate policy and national decision-making.

YOUCAN Founder and Executive Director Yudhishtir Chandra Biswas and Director Ashraful Islam Ayon participated in the meeting, representing the organization’s leadership and commitment to meaningful youth engagement.

What We Raised

• Youth at the decision-making table – from COP29 to local climate plans.
• Urgent adaptation and L&D finance – not just promises, but national action.
• Air pollution and urban safety – stricter enforcement, cleaner transport.
• Climate in the media – support for youth-led climate journalism and media capacity.

What Came Out

Minister Rizwana Hasan acknowledged the critical role of youth and affirmed her openness to collaborative work. While no formal commitments were made, she expressed strong intent to continue working with YOUCAN and explore structural spaces for youth participation inside the Ministry.

The Road Ahead

We’re co-developing a short policy brief to share with the Ministry by 1 August. Public input will be open via our website.

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