On October 7, 2023, a dialogue on Climate Change and Adaptive Social Protection in Bangladesh was held at The Daily Star Center Conference Room, chaired by Ms. Saki Rezwana and organized by the Bangladesh Social Protection Advocacy Network (BSPAN). The event brought together 30 participants, including government officials, NGOs, trade unions, academia, and media representatives, fostering discussions on policy gaps and opportunities in adaptive social protection.
Dr. Md. Moktar Hossain, Joint Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh, served as the Guest of Honour, while Mr. S. M. Morshed, Vice Chair of OSHE Foundation, moderated the event. Ms. Tahsin Tabassum from BSPAN presented key interventions, including social security schemes, climate-adaptive initiatives, and disaster risk reduction measures. She emphasized the need for an integrated framework addressing protective, preventive, and transformative actions.
Key Discussion Points:
- The need for localized data and improved social safety nets.
- Involvement of trade unions and NGOs in adaptive social protection efforts.
- Climate-induced displacement and unplanned urbanization.
- Importance of climate-smart agriculture and financial support for small farmers.
- Transparency in climate financing and better utilization of climate funds.
- The impact of extreme heat on women workers and the necessity for targeted interventions.
Key Recommendations:
- Expand adaptive social protection schemes in alignment with the National Adaptation Plan.
- Ensure cash transfers for climate-affected workers facing livelihood insecurity.
- Strengthen preventive measures in disaster-prone areas.
- Promote climate-resilient job creation and insurance for vulnerable workers.
- Enhance awareness campaigns and policy engagement with relevant stakeholders.
The session concluded with a call for continued collaboration among policymakers, trade unions, and civil society to enhance adaptive social protection in Bangladesh.
