Thematic focus

Poverty is more than the lack of income and resources to ensure a sustainable livelihood. Its manifestations include hunger and malnutrition, limited access to education and other basic services, social discrimination and exclusion as well as the lack of participation in decision-making. Economic growth must be inclusive to provide sustainable jobs and promote equality. Rich become richer day by day but the poor people become poorer and confine themselves in poverty trap. 1.5 Crore people of Bangladesh are ultra poor and more than three crore people are living below national poverty line.

It is time to rethink how we grow, share and consume our food. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries can provide nutritious food for all and generate decent incomes, while supporting people-centred rural development and protecting the environment. Climate change is putting even more pressure on the resources we depend on, increasing risks associated with disasters such as droughts and floods.

Obtaining a quality education is the foundation to improving people’s lives and sustainable development. Major progress has been made towards increasing access to education at all levels and increasing enrollment rates in schools particularly for women and girls. Basic literacy skills have improved tremendously, yet bolder efforts are needed to make even greater strides.

Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. Providing women and girls with equal access to education, health care, decent work, and representation in political and economic decision-making processes will fuel sustainable economies and benefit societies and humanity at large.

Bangladesh has made significant strides towards lifting people out of poverty. However, inequality still persists and large disparities remain in access to health and education services and other assets. Economic growth is not sufficient to reduce poverty if it is not inclusive and if it does not involve the three dimensions of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental.

A continued lack of decent work opportunities, insufficient investments and under-consumption lead to an erosion of the basic social contract underlying democratic societies. Sustainable economic growth requires creating conditions that allow people to have quality jobs that stimulate the economy while not harming the environment.

Human rights education is crucial to promote good governance. Cultural actions and community mobilizations serve as important tools to raise awareness and bring grassroots organizations together to defend human dignity and secure sustainable livelihoods.

Emergency disaster response consists of critical elements: warning/evacuation, search and rescue, assessing damage, and the immediate restoration of infrastructure. The aim is to provide immediate life-saving aid and maintain the health and morale of the affected population during crises.