Volunteering For the MDGs in Bangladesh United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme in Bangladesh
CONTENTS
ABOUT UNV The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is the
In most cultures volunteerism is deeply embedded
UN organization that promotes volunteerism to support
in long-established, ancient traditions of sharing and
peace and development worldwide.
support within the communities. In this context, UN
Volunteerism can transform the pace and nature of
Volunteers take part in various forms of volunteerism
development and it benefits both society at large and
and play a role in development and peace together with
the individual volunteer. UNV contributes to peace and
co-workers, host agencies and local communities.
development by advocating for volunteerism globally,
UN Volunteers in Bangladesh support various UN
encouraging partners to integrate volunteerism into
agencies in their projects and contribute to development
development programming, and mobilizing volunteers.
through volunteerism.
WE BELIEVE
04 FOREWORD:
NEAL WALKER, RESIDENT COORDINATOR OF THE UNITED NATIONS BANGLADESH 05 INTRODUCTION:
MIRIAM EBNER, PROGRAMME OFFICER OF THE UNITED NATIONS VOLUNTEERS PROGRAMME BANGLADESH 06 DESCRIPTION OF MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS 34 POST-2015 AGENDA
VOLUNTEER STORIES
We recognize that volunteering benefits both society at
realizing the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
large and the individual volunteer and we recognize that
and in building social cohesion, mutual understanding
volunteering contributes to human development and
and the achievement of community-centred goals.
human rights as much as to the personal development
We invest in enabling the environment for citizen
of the individual volunteer.
engagement: the development of volunteering policies
We value volunteering as an opportunity for people
and supportive legislation; in volunteer management
to connect, engage, and discover joint solutions. And
and support; in measuring the impact of volunteering;
we purposefully create opportunities for volunteer
and in knowledge building and knowledge sharing about
participation. We engage the will, the positive energy
volunteering and what it can achieve.
and the innovation of millions of people towards
08 MDG 1 : Eradicate Extreme Poverty and Hunger
MD. JAHANGIR KABIR CHOWDHURY UN Volunteer
22 MDG 5 : Improve Maternal Health
Bangladesh Midwife Society team
SAJAL ROY Jege Otho Foundation 12 MDG 2 : Achieve Universal Primary Education
DAINA CHAKMA UN Volunteer
24 MDG 6 : Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Other Diseases
SHARIF KAUKAB UN Volunteer
SOHANA MAHJABIN JAAGO Foundation 16 MDG 3 : Promote Gender Equality
and Empower Women RANGABI TANCHANGYA UN Volunteer
26 MDG 7 : Ensure Environmental Sustainability
LUKAS FIECHTER UN Volunteer SHARMIN BULBUL LITA Noazeshs Knowledge Center
ROWSHON AKHTER URMEE Brave Men Campaign 20 MDG 4 : Reduce Child Mortality
MINJOON KIM UN Volunteer Cover photo: Rangabi and her colleagues participated in the Women Day Celebration Programme. (photographer unknown, 2012)
02 About United Nations Volunteers programme
30 MDG 8 : A Global Partnership for Development
MEREL FUCHS UN Volunteer MOHAMMAD MAMUN MIA United Nations Youth and Students Association of Bangladesh (UNYSAB)
FOREWORD:
INTRODUCTION:
Neal Walker, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh
Miriam Ebner, UNV Bangladesh Programme Officer
Since 1985, on the 5th of December every year, the
dedicate their life to reducing maternal mortality. The
As the year 2015 is coming closer, the world is gearing
This booklet highlights the contributions of volunteers
United Nations celebrates volunteerism, and the
commitment of volunteers exemplified in these stories
up to accelerate the achievements of the Millennium
towards the achievement of the MDGs and their
contributions of volunteers to societies across the
gives us pause to think of the contribution volunteers
Development Goals. Even though Bangladesh has
personal motivation. Also, it shows what change can
world. Volunteerism takes many different forms and
make to building this country.
already reached some of the goals, there are still
occur because of an individual’s decision. Of course
areas in which there is a long way to go. In the past
these stories only exemplify the many ways in which
INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY 2013
volunteers come from many different backgrounds.
VOLUNTEERISM AND the MDGs
Volunteers are remarkable to dedicate one of our most
The United Nations in Bangladesh is committed to
years, many different approaches have been taken
volunteers contribute to positive and sustainable change
valuable resources: time. Often this is done for little to
supporting volunteerism, and we hope this publication
and volunteering emerged as one important way of
in Bangladesh. Some are directly linked to the MDGs,
no pay and often without due recognition. This year we
not only encourages a broad debate on how
engaging communities and getting people involved in
e.g. the story of the Bangladesh Midwifery Society, while
not only celebrate and recognise volunteerism in all of
volunteerism can be integrated into national policies, but
development processes. Realities and values do not
others are rather indirectly contributing to the MDGs,
its facets, but pay special tribute to the contribution of
also serves as inspiration for readers to be the change
change only because of policies, but because people
e.g. Sajal’s idea to create a game school for children.
young volunteers in global peace and development.
they want to see in the world.
actively transform their community, get involved and
The stories also remind us that sometimes it is the small
For International Volunteers Day 2013, we celebrate
address social, economic, environmental and political
changes that really make a difference and affect the
the role of young people as agents of change in their
issues.
lives of people.
communities. Thus, when talking about the MDGs and the many
All of the stories show how (inter)national UN Volunteers
In Bangladesh over 16 million people volunteer
positive changes that occurred in the last decade in
and dedicated volunteers from civil society organizations
annually. This booklet aims to highlight how UN
Bangladesh, we should not forget that it is people who
change their world step by step and thus significantly
Volunteers, along with other civic-minded individuals
change their world. To achieve these fundamental,
contribute to the attainment of the MDGs.
from various organisations in Bangladesh, contribute to
but ambitious development goals it requires much
How some of our volunteers contributed to the MDGs is
the achievement of the Millenium Development Goals.
more than the involvement of governments and the
wonderfully described in the following.
All of the featured stories provide a personal dimension
international community. The knowledge, solidarity and
to each of the volunteers, highlighting their motivations,
creativity of millions of people through voluntary action
and also elaborating on the important work they
has a major influence on the extent to which the MDGs
undertake. There are a diversity of volunteer pathways;
are attained and sustained.
some volunteer to increase the literacy rate and others
04 Foreword and Introduction
Description and progress of the MDGs in Bangladesh
E
A
chieve Universal Primary Education
Significant progress has been made in increasing equitable access in education (girls: 99.4 percent, boys: 97.2 percent), reduction of dropouts, improvement in completion of the cycle, and implementation of a number of quality enhancement measures in primary education. The
radicate Extreme Poverty and Hunger
challenges under MDG2 include attaining the targets of primary education completion rate and the adult literacy rate. A large part of children
Bangladesh has made great progress in respect of eradicating poverty and hunger. The MDG
with disabilities are still not integrated in the schooling system. Also, the quality of education in all school levels remains a challenge.
P
target of halving the percentage of the population living below the poverty line has already been achieved in 2012. However, ensuring employment for all remains a major challenge: the high
romote Gender Equality and Empower Women
unemployment and underemployment rate of young people between 15 to 24 years of age as well as the low economic participation of women still have to be adequatly addressed. Attaining food
Bangladesh has made significant progress in this goal due to some specific public
security and nutritional wellbeing still remains a challenge.
interventions focusing on girl students, such as stipends and exemption of tuition fees for girls in rural areas. However, wage employment for women in Bangladesh
R
is still low: Only one woman out of every five is engaged in wage employment in the non-agricultural sector.
educe Child Mortality
Bangladesh has already met the target of reducing the under-five mortality rate and the target of reducing the infant mortality rate is also on track. This has been achieved through successful programmes for immunization, control of diarroeal diseases and Vitamin A supplementation. However, while the mortality rates have improved, major inequalities among the population still need to be addressed. Also childhood injuries, especially drowning, have emerged as a considerable public health problem as they are responsibe for one quarter of the deaths of children under 5 years of age.
A
I
mprove Maternal Health
Bangladesh is on track to achieve this MDG and to create a safe environment for pregnant women and during child birth: The Bangladesh Maternal Mortality survey shows that the maternal mortality rate has consistently declined during
The proportion of Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) to GDP declined in the last ten years, from the level of 5.6 percent to 2.2 percent. Total ODA disbursement in MDG sectors like education, health, social welfare, labour, public administration and social infrastructure received
C
ombat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Other Diseases
Bangladesh has performed well in halting communicable diseases
the past decades. While in 1990 the maternal mortality ratio
under this goal. There was a significant improvement in the reduction of
was 574 per 100,000 live births, in 2010 the ratio was 194.
malarial deaths in the country over the years.
06 Descriprion and Progress of the MDGs in Bangladesh
Global Partnership for Development
E
increasing attention.
nsure Environmental Sustainability
Significant progress has been made in enabling access to safe drinking water and sanitary latrines. However, access to safe water for all is a challenge, as arsenic and salinity intrusion as a consequence of climate change fall out will exacerbate availability of safe water especially for the poor. Maintaining wetlands and biodiversity is also still a challenge in Bangladesh. ,,,,, For more information please read the MDG progress report 2012, published by the United Nations in Bangladesh
GOAL 1 : ERADICATE POVERTY AND EXTREME HUNGER
VOLUNTEERING FOR REFUGEES The Millennium Development Goals aim at addressing the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable people in the world. Refugees are one of the most vulnerable groups: they left their home and fled to another country not because they wanted to, but because they were compelled to. Often refugees are discriminated against and restricted in their movement and basic rights. Jahangir Chowdhury is working with UNHCR to improve the life of the inhabitants of the two refugee camps around Cox’s Bazar.
T
here are about thirty thousand Muslim refugees
Coming from Cox’s Bazar, I knew about the difficult
from Myanmar residing in two official camps named
situation Rohingyas have been facing for a long time. I
Kutupalong and Nayapara refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar
felt compelled to contribute to the well-being of refugees
district. The situation of refugees in Cox’s Bazar is
in Bangladesh and started working with UNHCR in
difficult: many are not registered and reside outside the
2005. Since 2010, I have been working as a national
camp without legal protection from arrest and abuse.
UN Volunteer with UNHCR. As a Field Assistant, I am
Also the refugees living in the official camps face difficult
entrusted in providing assistance to refugees in Cox's
living conditions. Some families have lived in the camps
Bazar. I interview refugee families/individuals, register
for more than 20 years. Three generations on, the
newborns, update personal bio-data in refugee data
people still live in overcrowded shelters and require food
bases and verify information concerning the camp
assistance as they are not allowed to work or go outside
population. Since UNHCR only has the mandate to work
the camps. In search of a better future, some risk their
with registered refugees living in two official camps, it
lives on high sea to find a place they can call safe
is important that refugees are registered. In order to
haven, a place where they can live a self-dependent
advocate for refugee rights at the national, regional and
in the area of tailoring, soap making, carpentry and
life. All the refugees belong to an ethnic group that is
global level, it is essential that the information available
basic electrical training. These activities enable refugees
discriminated against in Myanmar, called Rohingya.
on the situation of refugees is accurate and verified.
to gain skills and means of leading a more self-reliant
In Myanmar, the Rohingya community faces various
Thus, I believe that my work contributes to ensuring the
life. The programme prioritizes refugee women and girls,
administrative barriers and are often deprived of human
rights of refugees and improving their living conditions.
who are particularly vulnerable to sexual and physical
rights. They face restriction to marry, traveling beyond
UNHCR has different assistance programmes for
attacks. Apart from providing basic living assistance
their village, forced labor, building religious structures.
refugees, such as, health
to the refugees, UNHCR gives psychological support
Thus, as an ethnic and religious minority, Rohingyas
nutrition, sanitation, education;
to refugees who survived sexual and gender based
are trapped between severe repression and abuse in
skill development. We encourage
violence.
their homeland. In the past decades, Bangladesh has
refugees to gain economic
Through my volunteer service, I want to raise awareness
hosted hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas fleeing
independence through provision
for the situation of refugees in Bangladesh and
persecution.
of income generating programmes
contribute to protecting refugee rights
08 Volunteer story: Md. Jahangir Kabir Chowdhury, UN Volunteer
Jahangir is registering a family for register refugee's identification.
Md. Jahangir Kabir Chowdhury: He was born and grew up in Cox's Bazar, where he was directly confronted with the difficult living conditions of refugees from Myanmar. His motivation to support the often discriminated against Rohigya community led him to join UNHCR in 2005 where he supported the mass verification of refugee families. Later on, he joined as a national UN Volunteer and enjoys volunteering for refugees.
GOAL 1 : ERADICATE POVERTY AND EXTREME HUNGER
A PLACE TO BE A CHILD Since its establishment, Jege Otho Foundation fully relies on committed volunteers to plan and implement projects several days a week in schools, public spaces and the Jege Otho training center. All activities aim to create an enabling environment for children and young people to enhance their socioeconomic opportunities as well as live a healthy and happy life. More than 70 young people volunteer for Jege Otho and try to improve the lives of deprived and disenfranshised children.
M
y name is Sajal Roy (24), and I am the coordinator
discussing with my colleagues about the situation of
of PATSHALA with Jege Otho Foundation. I
children from very poor backgrounds in Jessore, I
have been volunteering since 2009 on anti-drug and
decided to open a game school where children could
adolescent education awareness campaigns, as well as
come and play football, cricket, and traditional games. A
a tree planting activity. As a result of these experiences,
small group of volunteers started the game school using
I started to particularly think about ways to improve
the MME college ground.
education for underprivileged children. Every child is welcome to join. It is a space where PATSHALA is the name of a game school in Jessore.
children have the time to play and chat with their friends.
It is a place where children and youths can come
We believe that through exercise and the experience
together to develop life skills in an informal setting. In
of a safe space, they will develop mentally as well as
our community, many underprivileged children live next
physically. More importantly, they can discuss issues
to the railroad tracks in harsh conditions. Their families
and communicate with volunteers. We try to be role
are poor and many parents work as rickshaw pullers,
models for them and give support and advice to the
hawkers or caretakers. In order to earn additional
children.
and youths to be active citizens and contribute to the
income, some are involved in illegal activities, such as
I believe this school has positively affected this
improvement of social health of the community. After
smuggling or trading drugs. Sometimes 5- or 6-year-old
community. Local people are being inspired - some of
one year of PATSHALA, I got some miraculous feedback
children have to carry drugs to earn small amounts of
the college students joined our programme and now
from children that used to carry drugs: Now many of
money for their families.
also volunteer for their community.
them are motivated to improve their life and believe in
PATSHALA's children are playing a game with volunteers from Jege Otho Foundation. (Merel Fuchs, 2013)
a better future. I am really happy to have contributed to
Due to poverty and the lack of games and playgrounds, children cannot afford to play. I always felt sad when
Even though we do not directly
the development of children through this school.
thinking about it, especially because I believe that
reduce poverty by for example
PATSHALA united volunteers in a way that built social
children’s soft mentality is easily affected by antisocial
distributing food items, I think our
recognition and dignity. These active citizens now
influences when living in a negative environment. I
work contributes in many ways to
contribute to making Jessore a more fair and poverty-
somehow needed to change their environment. After
society. We encourage children
free society
10 Volunteer story: Sajal Roy, Jege Otho Foundation
Sajal Roy : Since five years, Sajal supports community development as a member of Jege Otho Foundation. His aim is to show that volunteerism can change society in many ways.Sajal says "I can only raise one voice but together we can make a peaceful world."
GOAL 2 : ACHIEVE UNIVERSAL PRIMARY EDUCATION
TAKING JOINT ACTION ON EDUCATION Bangladesh has shown significant improvement in providing access to education for children. Now, 98% of all children are enrolled in primary school, showing that parents are willing to give an education to boys and girls. Daina Chakma, who has volunteered in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, believes that education is key for a people's development. Her story shows how the promotion of education can unite a community and encourage all members of society to take an active role in shaping their environment.
V
olunteering is generally considered an altruistic
field visits. Since I have been involved in the planning,
act intended to promote good or improved human
management and implementation of the project
quality of life. In return, this activity can produce a
activities, I of course also visited the households around
feeling of self-worth and respect. I want to work for
community schools. During my visits to schools and
my community, society and vulnerable people, and I
meetings with community people I tried to motivate
think volunteerism is the best way to support people in
and encourage school management committees and
achieving their desire for a better life. It is my privilege
mother's groups to volunteer for their community.
and pleasure to being a volunteer. In a nutshell, the idea of community schools is that I joined the UNDP Chittagong Hill Tracts Development
members of the community support the running of
Facility (CHTDF) in December 2009 as a national
their schools. As part of our activities, we national
UN volunteer. As an Education Assistant I am part of
volunteers had taken the initiatives to spread the spirit
the education cluster, which seeks to put systems in
of volunteerism at different levels of society. When they
place to promote and sustain access to quality primary
caught the spirit of volunteerism they became motivated
education in the CHT. We encourage communities to
and committed to contribute to the community and
take an active role and promote community initiatives
schools in whatever way they could. Many joined in the
to establish and manage primary schools. During my
renovation of construction of schools by providing free
voluntary service I have worked with communities and
labor and local materials like bamboo and wood as well
supported them in improving the delivery of quality
as allowing teachers free lodging.
education. Often it is a lack of knowledge that During my time as UN Volunteer, I have had the
encourages youths to get involved
opportunity to take part in different trainings, meetings,
in anti-social activities. To address
workshops on education and have undertaken many
this, we conducted trainings on
Children are holding their text books in Rajasthali Upzila, Rangamati. (Daina Chakma)
Daina Chakma: a number of social issues, for example on the negative
born in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, her hometown is in Rangamati
societal effects of gender discrimination and bullying.
district. After working for social change in her district, she became
Together with students we had long discussions on
a national UN Volunteer in 2009. She has volunteered in the UNDP
drugs and mobile crimes.
Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Facility and supported the educational
I strongly believe that it is only education through which
cluster as an education assistant.
human beings can attain the maximum level of dignity,
Her passion for social development
self-reliance and unleash their potentials. In short,
motivates her to work in communities.
education helps one to be a complete human being　
She wants to contribute to changing their lives through the promotion of quality education.
12 Volunteer story: Daina Chakma, UN Volunteer
GOAL 2 : ACHIEVE UNIVERSAL PRIMARY EDUCATION
VOLUNTEERING FOR QUALITY EDUCATION Even though the MDG regarding the achievement of universal primary education has nearly been reached, the quality of education in Bangladesh varies greatly between schools and regions. JAAGO foundation is a youth-led organisation aiming to ensure quality education for deprived children with poor economic background. In 2007, volunteers founded a free-of-cost school in the slum area of Rayer Bazar using an internationally recognized curricula.
W
hen I was seven years old, I suddenly realized
the 10,000 volunteers affiliated with the organization,
that our house help couldn’t read nor write.
are the foundation of our work. As part of the research
Even as a child I realized how poorly life had treated
team, I am developing a standard combined curriculum
her and I felt that it was unfair. So together with my
based on the government’s curriculum. There are
mother, I started teaching her the Bangla alphabet.
three separate education systems within Bangladesh:
Nowadays, I work for JAAGO foundation. Started by
english medium schools, which are internationally
a small group of volunteers in 2007, it now runs eight
recognized and comparatively expensive, but ensure
schools in Bangladesh. JAAGO’s main objective is
relative advantages on the job market; Bangla medium
to create a better society for the next generation – a
schools with excellent curriculum but one that does not
society free of exploitation, discrimination and violence,
necessarily guarantee a place in the job market; and
which achieves its highest potential. JAAGO aspires
Madrassas, religious schools or colleges for the study of
the research team we are now working on integrating
to bring about substantial improvements in the lives of
Islamic religion.
the national curriculum into our schooling to enable kids
disadvantaged people, with special emphasis on literacy
Students of JAAGO Foundation (Shun Hatano, 2013)
to go to a English Medium school and at the same time
Sohana Mahjabin:
and nourishment. The organization focuses its outreach
JAAGO decided to provide english medium education
learn about their culture and country's history.
She spent her childhood in Jessore, a district in the south-
on serving as many children as possible with quality
to increase employment opportunities for its students.
I believe that volunteering is about touching a life. Each
education by offering free access to education in eight
Through targeted teacher training and online schooling,
west of Bangladesh. After graduating from school, she came
time a child gives me a high five or shares the cake
english-medium schools throughout the country.
students in remote areas are connected to highly
she has just bought, it brings me great satisfaction and
to Dhaka to study International Relations with the aim of
qualified teachers. The problem with the educational
happiness.
working in the development sector. Sohana has volunteered for many years and believes that access to quality education
Quality education requires sufficient investment of
system we were applying was that it did not endorse
time, qualified teachers to ensure that the delivery of
national history, culture or moral
children, I still feel closely connected to the students
information is child-friendly and the implementation of
values. This risked the birth of a
and hope that my work contributes to enhancing their
children. She is currently enrolled
strong curricula.
cohort of people stranded from
chances for a better life. Currently, I’m planning to work
in a Development Studies Master
Many volunteers support the work of JAAGO foundation
not only their national values, but
for children living with disabilities and want to improve
programme.
and even though JAAGO now also has paid staff
also their families, who often had
their access to education, for example by building
members, the volunteer spirit of its founders as well as
little educational background. In
infrastructure that is disability-friendly
14 Volunteer story: Sohana Mahjabin, JAAGO Foundation
Even though now I am no longer directly working with
is key for the development of
GOAL 3 : PROMOTE GENDER EQUALITY AND EMPOWER WOMEN
RAISE AWARENESS ON GENDER ISSUES In the past years the government of Bangladesh has rolled out several programmes to promote gender equality and empower women. Through stipend programmes for girls and other public interventions such as the exemption of tuition fees for girls, the enrollment rate of girls in schools has increased significantly. Even though now more women sit in parliament than ever before, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to ensure gender equality.
T
h e C h i t t a g o n g H i l l Tr a c t s a r e o n e t h i r d o f
and Women Empowerment”. Our aim is to ensure
Bangladesh in terms of size. About 15 million
that gender as a cross cutting issue is thought of
people live in this region and it is a home to 11 different
and included in every activity, policy and program of
ethnic groups with distinct cultures, customs, beliefs
the CHTDF project. Moreover, we organise different
and rituals. The simple life of many people living in
activities to create awareness among a wider public on
the Chittagong Hill Tracts has been disrupted by the
issues such as gender discrimination, violence against
unstable political situation. The signing of the CHT
women or rape. I have worked in the gender cluster
Peace Accord in 1997 created the space and option for
for around four years as a volunteer and have gained
development programmes to operate in the Hill tracts:
many new experiences and learned different skills to
the Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Facility (CHTDF)
ensure that gender as a social category is included
project of UNDP is one of the biggest interventions and
in all CHTDF activities. Recently we trained female
works in close collaboration with government actors,
leaders on conflict transformation and peace keeping.
local authorities and non-governmental organisations.
These women are now working as mediators in their
Rangabi and her colleagues conducted "International Women Day Celebration Programme - 2012".
workplace and society and act as role models to foster
community level and in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. As
Through the CHTDF project different initiatives have
peace and solve conflicts. Since we are working with
Rangabi Tanchangya:
a team, we support campaigns against gender based
been undertaken to ensure basic services to the hard
women groups and local leaders on village level as well
She started to work as a national UN Volunteer in December 2009
violence (GBV) and distribute information to promote
to reach population and to strengthen the communities
as policy makers, civil society activists, NGO workers on
and supported the UNDP Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Facility
gender equality. Our ultimate objective is to promote and
through a multitude of different interventions such
national level the work is very diverse and interesting.
as a gender specialist until July 2013. She has been a dedicated
ensure women’s active participation in current practice of
women's rights activist since the 1990s and is now working as a
social arbitration processes (shalish) and ensure justice
Mediation Officer for BLAST, a legal
as good governance, community empowerment, confidence building and advocacy for full implementation
I believe that my efforts have
for marginalized people.
of the peace accord. Inherent to all of these projects is a
contributed to making the
service organization, in Rangamati
Due to our work, communities living in the remote
strong gender sensitivity, which focuses on the inclusion
project more gender sensitive.
District.
parts of the Chittagong Hill Tracts are now informed on
of women and men.
Furthermore, I have contributed to
women’s rights, which especially empowers local women
As a national UN Volunteer I was working in the gender
raise awareness on gender issues
and gives them more self-confidence to work as allies to
cluster, which mainly focused on “Gender Equity
and women’s empowerment on
protect and promote their rights
16 Volunteer story: Rangabi Tanchangya, UN Volunteer
GOAL 3 : PROMOTE GENDER EQUALITY AND EMPOWER WOMEN
A JOURNEY TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY Violence against women is a critical issue in Bangladesh. The youth-led Brave Men campaign aims at raising awareness on the issue by addressing school-age boy's concept of masculinity. Through this, the group of university students wants to encourage boys and young men to reflect on gender stereotypes in Bangladesh and say "NO" to violence against women.
I
have always been interested in gender issues,
reproductive health and adolescence. For many boys
because I believe that gender affects everyone and
our training is an eye-opener: they suddenly realize how
influences many things in life. In Bangladesh, boys are
important women are in their life and that it is not fair
socialized in a way that reinforces gender discrimination:
to treat women badly. All of the students agreed that
To show bravery, can mean to tease women and make
their mothers’ work and responsibilities are not easy
derogatory comments about members of the opposite
and started supporting their mothers by contributing to
gender. Boys who gossip and treat women in a bad way
housework. Most want to protect women from any sort
get appreciated by their friends. The social recognition
of violence after realizing that gender-based violence
of discrimination against girls and women allows boys to
might also affect their sisters or female friends.
behave that way. They have no incentive to change their behavior or even question these roles. So if we want to
I still remember one student from Mohammadpur, who
create a more equal and gender sensitive society, we
said before participating in our workshops that he had
need to target young men and boys.
believed that if a woman is being sexually harassed it
Urmee and her colleagues conducting the training session at ULAB school.
is because of her improper dressing and thus her own After graduating, eight friends of mine and I decided
fault. At the end of the sessions he admitted that it’s
to go to boy schools to hold workshops on gender
not the dresses, but rather the mentality of boys. He
From my perspective, I really feel proud of our
issues called "Protyabartan" with the students. During
realized that boys have to come forward to change this
achievements so far. I want to contribute to changing
the first workshops in November 2012, our initiative
mentality. Some students even formed groups in their
Bangladeshi society and feel that it is our social and
became known as the Brave Men campaign. Brave
neighborhoods to raise awareness on VAW through
personal responsibility as youth to protest against any
Men Campaign is a youth movement which aims at
posters, to protest against eve-
kind of discrimination.
deconstructing the concept of bravery among boys.
teasing and to discuss gender
In two-month long regular workshops and trainings,
stereotypes and their negative
If more young people join our campaign, we could do
effects with their friends.
even more. I hope that our idea can change the world,
boys have the opportunity to discuss and learn about
can motivate people to work towards justice – even if
the concept of gender, gender roles, division of labour,
only a little bit
18 Volunteer story: Rowshon Akhter Urmee, Brave Men Campaign
Rowshon Akhter Urmee: Urmee studied Women and Gender studies at Dhaka University, where she met like-minded people, who wanted to do something about existing gender roles. Together with her friends she decided to develop and facilitate workshops on gender and stereotypes in schools. The Brave Men campaign is a social movement that encourages young people to stand up against gender discrimination and violence against women.
promise Renewed to End Preventable Child Deaths by
Minjoon Kim:
2035” and committed to reducing U5MR to 20. Had it not
Hailing from Seoul, South Korea, Minjoon has been a UN Volunteer,
been for the contribution of dedicated volunteers, such
assigned to UNICEF Bangladesh country office since September
Bangladesh has already met the MDGs of reducing child mortality: in 2011 the infant mortality rate was already below the set target of 48 per 1000 live births. However, as neonatal deaths contribute to 60 percent of under-five mortality, challenges remain. Minjoon Kim, supporting UNICEF as an international UN Volunteer, is part of a team that gives trainings and support to hospitals and community workers on newborn care practices in Tangail district.
progress would have not been possible, let alone the
2012. Having a medical background,
government’s new commitment.
he works for a Maternal, Newborn and
I GOAL 4 : REDUCE CHILD MORTALITY
VOLUNTEER TO REDUCE CHILD MORTALITY
n order to reduce the neonatal mortality rate in
more accurate picture of how many sick pregnant
Bangladesh, UNICEF has been providing technical
women and newborns are left unheeded in remote
assistance to their government counterparts,
areas. In order to ensure proper usage of the tool, I
implementing NGOs, facility managers and community
conducted trainings with the community health workers
health workers. I am working for UNICEF in Bangladesh
and explained the importance of accurate data to
a s a n i n t e r n a t i o n a l U N Vo l u n t e e r. M y p r o j e c t
them. It was really interesting to get their feedback and
encompasses a wide range of activities in maternal and
discuss with them the further steps of our project. At the
newborn healthcare, such as counseling sessions on
same time my contributions and technical expertise will
skilled births, birth preparedness and dangerous signs
enhance the capacity of government and NGO workers.
of a difficult pregnancy. I have worked with a number of volunteers, ranging When I first arrived in Bangladesh, I was nervous: Did
from national community health volunteers to
I have the necessary skills? Of course I had worked as
international volunteers. Regardless of the programmes
a surgeon before, but here I would have an advisory
they were engaged in or their profession, they have
role. Since that day I have been on many field visits and
driven evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing
have grown confident in my work. The new, multicultural
maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
environment and unfamiliar tasks have challenged me and enabled me to learn a great deal. Now, I can act
Bangladesh is globally acknowledged with its
and move the project forward at critical times.
achievement in reducing its under-5 mortality rate (U5MR). Many people have
I took the bull by the horns; after learning from my
actively contributed to this
supervisor and studying existing principles, I conducted
success with strong government
workshops and supported NGOs to create something
support. In July 2013, the Ministry
new. For example, I developed a field level monitoring
of Health and Family Welfare
tool with an implementing partner that will give us a
launched its new initiative “A
20 Volunteer story: Minjoon Kim, UN Volunteer
Child health programme as a technical
All the activities in the programme hinge on volunteerism,
officer for MIS and M&E. He has worked
from volunteers and professionals in rural communities
as KOICA volunteer as a surgeon in
to central government bodies and UN agencies. Though
Addis Ababa from 2008 to 2011. After
it would be hard to pin down exactly how much I have
that, he had worked at a free clinic for
been contributing to health programmes focusing on
the marginalized in Seoul as a clinician and chief medical mission
women and children in Bangladesh, I am convinced that
organizer until he came to Dhaka.
my calling is here. I encourage talented and passionate youth do the same Minjoon is partcipating in a SWOT analysis session with colleagues during a UNICEF Health section retreat workshop.
BECAUSE EVERY WOMAN COUNTS
GOAL 5 : IMPROVE MATERNAL HEALTH
The volunteer-based Bangladesh Midwifery Society (BMS) plays an essential role in addressing the high maternal mortality rate found in Bangladesh. In recent years several Government initiatives have laid the foundation for a new profession: midwifery. The dedicated members of the BMS promote midwifery and ensure the quality of education in the different midwifery training centers. Through their activities they greatly contribute to improving maternal health.
J
esmin, Farida and Halima dedicate their time and
to participate in a Six Month Post Basic Certificate in
energy to promoting midwifery in Bangladesh.
Midwifery course. This initiative provided the opportunity
They are part of a group of midwives that founded a
for Farida, Halima and Jesmin to participate in a Master
society that educates midwives and advocates for their
Trainer Course on Midwifery, where they met. During the
profession in Bangladesh. During their nursing training
training, the participants decided to form the Bangladesh
they witnessed a high maternal mortality rate and the
Midwifery Society (BMS) to support the newly certified
suffering of women in labour: In 1990, 574 women died
midwives who were emerging in the field.
per 100.000 live births, making childbirth dangerous. Since its foundation, the number of members of the Jesmin, who gave birth to a stillborn child and suffered
BMS has increased significantly from 24 midwives
severe complications during labour due to lack of
in 2010 to 770 midwives in 2013, spread all over the
professional assistance, decided to do something about
country. All members volunteer to contribute to the
the high mortality rate of mothers and children. Although
society. Farida, Jesmin and Halima are members of the
pregnant women and newborns. Midwives not only
she wanted to work in the labour ward, she realized that
board and dedicate their time and energy to organising
support women during labour, but also advise and assist
there were hardly any training possibilities and that the
activities. They write project proposals, educate
women in the pre- and postnatal phases of childbirth.
rotational system within hospitals made it difficult for
midwives, advocate for maternal and child health and
Halima, president of the BMS, emphasized that although
nurses to gain and maintain their skills in midwifery.
work with stakeholders to share information. Bangladesh
the maternal mortality rate has drastically reduced, there
has reached the MDGs on reduction of maternal and
are still challenges that need to be overcome to ensure
Due to the influence of the MDGs, in 2010 the Prime
child mortality because of dedicated women like Halima,
that no birth is unattended, such as decreasing the
Minister made a commitment at the UN General
Jesmin and Farida, who learned
wide gap between the supply and demand of qualified
Assembly to employ 3000 certified midwives by 2015.
skills through international and
midwives by increasing government initiatives. The
Through this initiative midwifery as a profession has
national educational programmes
motivation and dedication of Farida, Jesmin and Halima
been promoted in two ways: a curriculum was developed
and who now promote a
showcases the willingness of women to take action and
for a three year direct entry Diploma in Midwifery
profession that directly contributes
responsibility to improve maternal and child health in
programme and nurses now have the opportunity
to reducing mortality rates of
Bangladesh
22 Volunteer story: Midwife Society Bangladesh
Caption of Midwife Society's photo Halima is conducting a training for new midwives. (Michaela Michel-Schuldt,2013)
Bangladesh Midwifery Society : This organization was founded in August 2010 by 24 members who were all part of the first batch of the newly introduced 6 months postbasic certificate in Midwifery programme for nurse-midwives. The government of Bangladesh initiated this programme to scale up nursing as a first step in meeting the need to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality. - Story written by Merel Fuchs
GOAL 6 : COMBAT HIV/AIDS, MALARIA AND OTHER DISEASES
A VOLUNTEER DOCTOR A healthy life is important to everyone. Sharif Ahmed Kaukab, an international UN Volunteer is serving as UN Physician in Dhaka. He mainly treats UN staff and their families and thus plays a vital role in the well-being of thousands of people. Apart from that he is passionate about impro\ving public health: having worked in countries all over the globe, he knows how important it is to combat HIV/Aids , Malaria or other public health diseases.
W
hen I was serving as a Missionary Medical
As doctors we strive to ensure a healthy society – a
Officer in ANJ Mission Hospital in Mile-91, Sierra
society without HIV/Aids, without Malaria. Even though
Leone, in 1988, I had a patient who was a UN Volunteer
most of my tasks nowadays are treating sick and ill
Agriculturist. He was based in Mile-91 town and needed
people, I also try to be active in preventing the spread
some treatment during which he introduced me to UNV
of these deadly illnesses. During my years as a doctor,
and motivated me to join the roster of UNV. My contract
I have seen many patients with HIV and know how
with the mission hospital expired in October 1988 and
devastating this infection is for the patient and his or
that was when I joined UNV in Sierra Leone. Since then
her family, how many people have died because of
I have been working as an international UN Volunteer
Aids or Malaria. Because of these experiences, I find
in many different countries, for example Nigeria and
it important to also work preventively: I give lectures
Liberia.
to communities on how to reduce the risk of getting infected with HIV and malaria.
Currently I am serving in Dhaka, as UN Physician and provide consultation and treatment to all UN staff
Many people only have superficial knowledge of these
members of all age groups and their families. Our staff
diseases – it is important to spread information on HIV,
dispensary is very small, so most of the time I refer
Malaria and other diseases to ensure that people know
patients to specialized hospitals for follow-up treatment.
how to prevent these illnesses and also how to live with
Nevertheless, I provide full medical support in all
them. To me shared knowledge is key in addressing
medical issues to patients and find it important to reach
these global public health issues: people have to know
a definitive diagnosis quickly to enable speedy recovery.
that sleeping under an insecticide-
The motto of my life is to ensure that people receive
treated bet net reduces the
a right diagnosis and prompt treatment leading to fast
infection rate of Malaria and can
recovery. It gives me real happiness if I can help my
safe lives, they also need to
patients and make sure they feel better.
understand that prejudices against
24 Volunteer story: Sharif Kaukab, UN Volunteer
people living with HIV/Aids do not
Sharif Kaukab checking the blood pressure of a patient in the UN dispensary. (Shun Hatano, 2013)
Sharif Ahmed Kaukab: Sharif was born in Jhang, Pakistan. After he graduated from medical college in Pakistan, he worked as a doctor in various countries such as Ghana, Sierra Leone, Germany and Nigeria. In February 2012 he started his international UN Volunteer
help in fighting this deadly infection – an open and proactive approach is essential to stop the spread of HIV: access to treatment and a non-discriminatory way of engaging with HIV-infected people build an important basis for preventative methods to be fruitful
service as Medical Officer of the United Nations in Bangladesh.
GOAL 7 : ENSURE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
VOLUNTEERISM AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Scouts for its long-standing experience in sending
Lukas Fiechter:
volunteers to help in disaster situations. Volunteerism is
Lukas has joined UNDP Bangladesh in February 2014 as a UN
People all over the country have realized that they have to be active in order to reduce the effects of natural hazards and environmental degradation – either by protecting and conserving nature or by building structures that can respond to natural disasters. Lukas Fiechter, UN Volunteer supporting the Early Recovery Facility of UNDP, is contributing to a more responsive and accessible coordination structure of volunteers working in disaster response.
deeply embedded in Bangladeshi tradition and culture.
Youth Volunteer. He has been working in the field of international
Hundreds of organizations are filled with people eager
cooperation with different organizations since concluding his
to spend their time for a better future, helping the most
studies of political science at the University of Berne, Switzerland
vulnerable people in their community.
in 2010. Lukas has been active in volunteerism for years as a board
To support this inspiring aspect of Bangladesh and to
member of an intercultural exchange
cultivate a more institutionalized disaster management
initiative in Switzerland and has gladly
systems in Bangladesh is a very rewarding task. The
accepted the opportunity to work as
angladesh is known to be one of the most
for key actors involved in early recovery and through
volunteer organizations are highly motivated and are
UN Youth Volunteer to further promote
vulnerable countries in the world due to climate
complementing the government’s efforts in addressing
always ready to contribute to the best of their abilities.
volunteerism around the world.
emergency response and early recovery.
These attributes of the volunteers I have met while
B
1
change and natural disasters. The low-lying country located in the delta of the three rivers Ganges,
working with ERF has encouraged me to continue to
Brahmaputra and Meghna, is honeycombed with
I work to build the capacity of key actors to respond
find venues to offer my own time and expertise as a
streams and rivers before the water masses flow into
to this challenge. This year, ERF has signed a letter
volunteer
the Bay of Bengal. Thus, the level of exposure and
of agreement with Bangladesh Scouts, the largest
vulnerability to extreme events such as floods, cyclones
volunteer organization in the country, with an estimated
Lukas presenting during a Lessons Learnt workshop with the Bangladesh Scouts. (Tarik Islam, 2013)
and droughts is extremely high in many parts of
1.3 million members. The Scouts are active in disaster
Bangladesh.
response and support the government in a variety of tasks such as handing out relief items, identifying
I joined UNDP’s Early Recovery Facility in February
communities and people to help small infrastructure
2013 as a Volunteer Mobilization Officer. The Early
repairs. To better enable the Scouts to manage
Recovery Facility (ERF) was established by UNDP to
disasters, ERF provides training in emergency response
close the gap between relief and long-term recovery
and early recovery, first aid and search and rescue
after a natural disaster. ERF’s primary aim is to generate
operations. Furthermore, we are helping Bangladesh
self-sustaining, nationally owned resilient processes
Scouts to set up a web-based volunteer database to
for recovery, mainly through policy support to local
swiftly find available man power in case of a disaster.
and national recovery institutions, capacity building
Through these activities, Bangladesh Scouts and national recovery institutions
According to the Global Climate Risk index 2013 published by Germanwatch, Bangladesh has been identified the 4th most affected
are being strengthened, with the end result that Bangladesh
country by climate change in the period between 1992-2011. Hameling,
is better prepared to respond to
sven&David Eckstein(2013) : Global Climate Risk index 2013. Who suffers
natural disasters. ERF sought
most from extreme weather event? Weather-related loss events in 2011 and 1992 to 2011. Published by Germanwatch.
26 Volunteer story: Lukas Fiechter, UN Volunteer
a partnership with Bangladesh
GOAL 7 : ENSURE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION It is always good to start before it gets too late. Sharmin Bulbul Lita, a member of the Noazesh Knowledge Center focusing on the protection of the nature conservation, believes that youth play a crucial role in environmental protection issues since they have a bright future ahead of them. If more people are engaged in protecting the environment, the better results we achieve.
T
he Noazesh Knowledge Center (NKC) was
“Environment is important for all of us. If young people
founded in 2011 by the national NGO WildTeam,
understand the importance of the environment, they will
which focuses on the protection of the Bengal Tiger and
be working for environmental protection throughout their
nature conservation. The NKC provides information
life. For us it is also great to work with volunteers, since
on conservation and environmental issues to the
they are usually very motivated and are willing to learn
public and specifically to the 450 young members
and contribute more than others.�
from different socioeconomic backgrounds, who are interested in environmental protection. The center
Many young people see volunteering with WildTeam
offers environmentalists a space to learn more about
and NKC as an option to learn about flora and fauna
environmental challenges in Bangladesh: through
while contributing to nature conservation. Environmental
regular newsletters, campaigns and study trips or an
protection plays an essential role in tiger conservation
open library, the team of NKC reaches out to different
as well as climate change mitigation. Understanding the
groups of society to raise awareness on environmental
relevance of nature and environment for Bangladesh,
issues and to create an understanding for the
many young people feel encouraged to actively engage
connections between ecology, economy and socio-
in environmental protection through photo contests,
cultural structures.
environmental quizzes and trips into forests, wetlands, protected areas and coasts of Bangladesh organized by
Volunteers play a crucial role in the activities of the NKC:
WildTeam and the NKC.
The center, which has only two paid staff members relies on volunteers for many different activities such
In February 2013 WildTeam
as data collection or data entry, organizing events or
organized a Rickshaw Challenge
supporting logistics. Sharmin Bulbul Lita, who is in
to creatively spread the message
charge of NKC believes that it is important to give an
of natural protection throughout
opportunity to young people to experience nature and
the country. A group of five NKC
learn more about their environment:
volunteers helped to ensure that
28 Volunteer story: Sharmin Bulbul Lita, Noazesh Knowledge Center
Participants in the Rikshaw Challenge are preparing for another day of cycling through Bangladesh. (unknown, 2013)
the event ran smoothly and 20 international and national activists registered to ride a Rickshaw 450 kilometers from Teknaf to Chandpai and spread the message of
Sharmin Bulbul Lita: She studied Resourse & Environmental Management and dedicates
tiger conservation and environmental protection.
her time to environmental conservation. She worked as a Programme
Protecting the environment and reforestation are
Team of WildTeam and managed NKC
directly linked to reducing the effects of climate change. Volunteers aiming at stopping or possibly even reversing environmental degradation in Bangladesh thus directly contribute to reducing the threats of natural disasters on the livelihoods of people
Officer of the Communication, Education and Public Awareness volunteers, organized study trips and other activities of NKC. Now, she joined the Research and Monitoring Team of WildTeam and hopes to continue to work with volunteers.
GOAL 8 : A GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR DEVELOPMENT
MAKING YOUTH VOICES HEARD MDG 8, focusing on the need for a global partnership, deals with the development of a more open financial and trading system while simultaneously addressing the unique needs of least developed countries (LDCs). As this MDG aims to achieve change on a very high political level, it is difficult for most people to contribute directly. However, millions of people throughout the world contribute to development debates and through that, shape the global development discourse.
T
he United Nations has taken up the challenge
lack of equality in access to information, education,
to ensure that the next development framework,
employment, health facilities and basic rights. The term
comes out of a transparent and open global debate,
“climate inequality” was coined by some participants,
in which civil society organisations can share their
describing the unequal effects of global warming -
vision for post-2015. Since I arrived in Dhaka as a UN
where countries like Bangladesh face more negative
Youth Volunteer, I have tried to ensure the inclusion
effects than the biggest “contributors”. Their visionary
of youth voices in the national as well as the global
thinking clearly showed that they are not only looking at
debate. I believe that young people, who in the end will
their community, their region or their country, but rather
have to ensure that the next development goals are
aspire to a movement for global equality.
achieved, should lead in forming the agenda. 1.8 billion young people live in this world, and youth are playing
Apart from contributing to a global debate, these
an important role in creating and developing a global
workshops enabled youth leaders to exchange ideas
community – not only on the highest political levels,
and get to know each other a little better. To initiate
but in everyday ways too. In the past years we have
social change on a big scale, networks have to be
already witnessed how young people connect through
created and information shared on every level.
social media, how images and texts create a feeling of
Limited funding and lack of information make it difficult
belonging – not only to a nation, but to a global people.
for youth organisations in Bangladesh, to get together
Youth leaders from various volunteer organizations are discussing about their vision for post-2015 in Dhaka. (Shun Hatano, 2013)
Merel Fuchs: Merel Fuchs joined the UNV office in Dhaka in March 2013 after completing her Master's of Arts in African Studies. After volunteering
and discuss their future. One of my major aims is
for a year in Kenya in 2005, she started to dedicate her time to
Together with three national youth organisations, I
to enable youth organisations to meet and develop
organised youth consultations in Jessore, Chittagong
networks in order to strengthen
to be heard and acknowledged. As leaders of tomorrow,
and Dhaka, creating a platform for youth leaders
youth voices on national and
I hope that youths all over the world use the opportunity
from various backgrounds to decide what they value
international levels. I believe that
to contribute to the post-2015 framework - either by
most in the next global framework. Over 80 young
in order to address the needs of
participating in national consultations or through the
people representing 30 organisations came together
LDCs, the voices of people living
participation and promotion of the global MyWorld
and discussed issues close to their heart, like the
in countries like Bangladesh need
survey
30 Volunteer story: Merel Fuchs, UN Volunteer
organising and preparing international youth exchanges. During her studies she focused on the political inclusion of youth and is now very happy to work with youth-led organisations in Bangladesh.
GOAL 8 : A GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR DEVELOPMENT
BRINGING THE UN TO YOUTH Connecting people to international institutions and global discussions is one important aspect of creating a global community. The UN Youth and Student Association of Bangladesh (UNYSAB) is a volunteer-based organization that aims at promoting the UN’s values among young people in Bangladesh. Through their activities, UNYSAB volunteers ensure that youths are informed about international developments and have a space to discuss global challenges.
I
have been volunteering since my school days. Back
has the opportunity to share their views on issues like
then, I used to tutor junior school students. When
environmental sustainability, food security, human rights
I enrolled in university, I started to volunteer at the
and social justice. Through this UNYSAB contributes to
UNYSAB, which honesty speaking, was as a game-
the development of negotiation skills and enhances the
changer for me. After volunteering in the organisation
leadership potential of all participants. Participants’ skills
for some years, I am now working as the President of
are not the only thing to improve, as their personalities
UNYSAB. This organization is very close to my heart.
grow too.
UNYSAB has provided me with the opportunity to work for the betterment of my society, my earth and myself,
Through our work we contribute to MDG8 – we raise
but most importantly, for the benefit of the generations
awareness on many important issues and inform young
of youth in this country.
people about HIV and violence against women. But most importantly we include them in global networks.
We promote volunteering because we consider
Furthermore, we introduce the United Nations to youths;
volunteerism a means to develop leadership. Today, we
not only as an abstract entity - but as a platform for
have networks all over the country, we have divisional
international discussion, as different agencies working
networks and even university chapters. Through these,
towards development and peace on a grand scale. It is
students from various schools, colleges and universities
crucial to translate international, often abstract, concepts
have the opportunity to work with UNYSAB.
into an understandable, national, context.
By joining UNYSAB, students get the chance to work
One thing that the global youth
on a variety of social and global imperatives. We work
community should believe in is
on various development agendas of UN and organise
that we have to work as a whole
the Bangladesh’s model United Nations. Initiatives like
to build a better world. If we can
debating groups increase the leadership skills of our
contribute to and learn from each
volunteers and members. In these groups everyone
other’s work, we will soon see
32 Volunteer story: Mohammad Mamun Mia, UNYSAB
Mamun with his collegues. (UNYSAB Freshers Reception 2013)
Mohammad Mamun Mia: President of UN Youth & Students Association of Bangladesh came from a middle class family of Tangail District of Bangladesh. Mamun completed his Honors and Masters from Department of International Relations, University of Dhaka. His colleagues in UNYSAB describes him
a better world. Our work has provided the country with a wealth of young leaders, contributing in different sectors of society, dedicating their time to improve the lives of people in their community and country
as a dedicated volunteer, a efficient leader and a very good friend. Mamun wishes to devote his life in the path of volunteerism.
POST-2015 AGENDA UNV CONTACT DETAILS
A
s we are approaching the 2015 deadline for
discuss their development priorities. One of the major
achieving the MDGs, people around the world are
areas of discussion was around equality, but also the
already looking toward the next development agenda.
need to improved access to quality education and the
United Nations Volunteers programme in Bangaldesh
The vision of the MDGs to advance economic and
job market were identified as crucial.
IDB Bhaban, 14th Floor, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar,
SUSTAIBABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
social wellbeing of the world’s poorest remains as
34 Post-2015
For general information about UNV please contact:
Agargaon, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
relevant today as it was in 2000. However, there are
These results are also supported by the results of
Telephone: +(880-2) 8150088, 8118600-6
also changes to be made. Ban Ki Moon, Secretary
the quantitative data collected through the My World
Fax: +(880-2)8113196
General of the United Nations, has committed himself
survey in Bangladesh. UNV and the UN Resident
Email: unvbgd.bd@undp.org
to ensuring inclusive discussions on the post-2015
Coordinator’s office administered the offline version of
agenda. He wants to ensure that the debate around the
the global survey through which people can express
next development framework is people-centered and
their views on the world they want post-2015. The
reflects the visions and priorities of people all around
survey asks individuals to choose 6 out of 16 options
For information about becoming a UN Volunteer, please visit the UNV website:
the world.
and thus identifying their development priorities. 4200
http://www.unvolunteers.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UNVBangladesh
youths participated in the survey. A good education and
For more information about UNV Online Volunteering service, please visit:
Together with the UN Country Team, the government
better job opportunities are the top two most important
http://www.onlinevolunteering.org
of Bangladesh organized national consultations and
development priorities to the participants. While the
presented the results in May 2013. As a contribution to
first three priorities chosen by the youths speak to
Published by : UNV Bangladesh, 2013
the global dialogue on the post-2015 agenda, a total
their personal well-being and development, they also
Edited by : Merel Fuchs, Tyler Amos
of 13 goals were identified and formulated, including
emphasize the importance of good governance and
Designed by : Shun Hatano
critical issues such as a separate nutrition goal and
active participation of all part of society.
Reference : MDG Progress Report 2012 - United Nations in Bangladesh
gender goal. It becomes obvious that Bangladeshi people aspires transformative change.
(www.un-bd.org/pub/MDG Report_2012_Final_11_06_2013.pdf) You can also be part of the global discussion – either by participating in the MyWorld survey (www.myworld2015.
Special thanks to all volunteers who contributed!!
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme,
org) or by joining online forums such as www.
Jege Otho Foundation: https://www.facebook.com/JegeOthoFoundation
whose mandate is to strengthen the role of youth
worldwewant2015.org .
JAAGO Foundation: http://jaago.com.bd/
in development, organized three separate youth
Brave Men Campaign: https://www.facebook.com/BraveMenCampaign
consultations on the post-2015 agenda in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Midwife Society: http://bangladeshmidwiferysociety.wordpress.com/
Together with three national youth organizations,
Young Power in Social Action(YPSA): http://ypsa.org/
UNV organized workshops to provide young people
Noazesh Knowledge Centre: https://www.facebook.com/nkcdhaka
in Jessore, Chittagong and Dhaka with a platform to
UNYSAB: http://unysab.org/