Members of Barishal’s floating Manta fisherfolk community have urged authorities to ensure better access to public services, social protection and recognition of their rights.
The demand was raised at a dialogue titled “Dialogue with Local Authorities” held at Barishal Club on Thursday under the MantaConnect project, implemented by YouthNet Global with support from The Asia Foundation.
The event brought together local authorities, government officials, development partners and Manta community representatives to discuss challenges faced by river-dependent families, including limited access to education, healthcare, financial services, land rights and government support.
Barishal City Corporation Administrator Advocate Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin, who attended the event as chief guest, said all people are equal and pledged to support marginalised communities.
She said, “We are all human beings, and we have to live together. Everyone is equal to me. We cannot move forward by creating divisions among people based on identity or background.”
She added, “It is our responsibility to work for communities that have been left behind. Land rights and basic services are important issues for sociallly excluded people. At a personal level, I will work for the Manta community. They can come to the City Corporation with their needs, and I will always stand beside them.”
Jashim Sardar, a Manta community representative said access to education, healthcare and social protection remains a major challenge for families living in river areas, stressing the need for stronger connections with public institutions and long-term support.
YouthNet Global Executive Coordinator Sohanur Rahman said the Manta people should be recognised first as citizens with equal rights and dignity.
“Ensuring their access to education, healthcare, financial inclusion and social dignity is a matter of fundamental rights,” he said.
YouthNet Global General Secretary Arifur Rahman Shuvo said the Manta people are an integral part of Bangladesh’s society and have the right to participate fully in social and economic development.
Government officials attending the dialogue assured continued cooperation to improve access to available services, while participants stressed the need for stronger coordination among institutions to ensure sustainable development and inclusion of the community.