Bangladeshi youth leader and climate activist Sohanur Rahman has been awarded the prestigious Young Activist Laureate Award 2024 at the Young Activists Summit (YAS24) held on November 19 at the UN Palais des Nations in Geneva.

Sohanur, founder of YouthNet for Climate Justice, was among five global youth leaders recognized for their contributions to democracy, human rights, and environmental activism. In his acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to “young warriors fighting for justice” and emphasized collective action to tackle global challenges.

The summit, themed "Go Far, Go Together", highlighted collaboration in addressing issues like climate change. Sohanur shared how surviving Cyclone Sidr as a child shaped his journey toward advocating for climate justice. Under his leadership, YouthNet has mobilized youth across Bangladesh, influencing key policies, including the cancellation of ten coal-fired power plants and the declaration of the climate crisis as a planetary emergency by the Bangladesh Parliament in 2019.

Sohanur’s advocacy also extends to democratic reforms, with his active role in Bangladesh’s pro-democracy movement garnering widespread recognition. He attended COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as Bangladesh's youth delegate, meeting figures like Professor Muhammad Yunus and Lutfey Siddiqui, who commended his efforts.

Global institutions, including the US Embassy and the EU Mission in Geneva, congratulated him for his contributions to climate justice, further amplifying his voice on international platforms.

YouthNet, founded in 2016, remains a key force in youth-led environmental and social advocacy in Bangladesh. Its campaigns focus on sustainable development, gender equality, and empowering youth to shape a better future.

Other YAS24 honorees include Marley Dias from the US, Shanley McLaren from France, Alvaro Quiroz from Mexico, and Cynthia Houniuhi from the Solomon Islands.

Sohanur’s recognition at YAS24 underscores the role of youth leadership in addressing global crises, highlighting Bangladesh’s significant contributions to climate advocacy and democratic progress.