Speakers at a virtual duscussions on Saturday emphasized ensuring the safety and security of aid workers in Bangladesh, particularly those engaged in providing humanitarian aid to the
Rohingyas.
They joined a virtual dialogue organized by COAST Foundation, Cox’s Bazar
CSO-NGO Forum (CCNF) and BDCSO Coordination Process on the occasion of World Humanitarian Day 2023.
The virtual dialogue, titled "No Matter What - Together we stand beside affected communities -Empower local actors," was moderated by M Mustafa Kamal Akanda, Director of COAST Foundation.
The event's keynote presentation was delivered by Md. Iqbal Uddin from the same organization.
The occasion was inaugurated by Sanat Kumar Bhowmik, Deputy Executive Director of COAST Foundation.
During his keynote presentation, Md. Iqbal Uddin outlined vital recommendations.
These encompassed advocating for the welfare, dignity, and survival of all, condemning acts against aid workers, and ensuring equitable compensation, essential facilities, life insurance, and comprehensive local staff support.
Abu Murshed Chowdhury acknowledged the pivotal role of frontline aid workers in humanitarian responses.
He advocated for a risk-sharing concept that involves all partners, including donors, to ensure project design incorporates risk management.
Nilima Jahan emphasized the need to create a positive environment for female humanitarian workers at camp levels and provide them with necessary logistical support.
Khandakar Faruk Ahmed suggested allowing non-registered organizations to work as associated entities in emergency projects.
Mujibur Rahman, Advisor of Shushilan, called for equal treatment of local, national, and INGOs and urged the implementation of the Grand Bargain.
Among others, Abu Morshed Chowdhury, Co-Chair oox's Bazar CSO-NGO
Forum (CCNF), Ariful Islam, Chief Executive of YPSA; Nilima Jahan of Agrajatra; Amir Hossain
of NGO Platform; Sheikh Asad of Udayan Bangladesh; Khandakar Faruk Ahmed associated with Trinomul Unnayan Sangtha (TUS) Foundation; and Mujibur Rahman, Advisor of Shushilan took part in the discussion.