Bangladesh Youth Coalition Officially Launches at IAB Centre, Dhaka

On 27 May 2025, the Bangladesh Youth Coalition (BYC) officially launched at the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB Centre) in Dhaka, marking a significant milestone for youth-led civil society in Bangladesh. Organized by Youth For Change Bangladesh Foundation under the Y-Moves project, with support from Plan International Bangladesh and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), the day-long event brought together 198 participants, including youth leaders, civil society actors, development partners, and government representatives.

Jahir Rayhan, Convener of BYC, opened the programme with an introduction to the coalition's mission, vision, and working areas. Anwarul Haque, Assistant Resident Representative of UNDP, delivered a special address on the link between youth engagement and sustainable development, followed by a keynote from Ayesha Akter, President of Youth For Change Bangladesh Foundation.

A panel discussion titled “Strengthening Youth Coalitions: Sustainability, Leadership, & Growth” brought together voices from the Climate Parliament and the British Council alongside coalition members, exploring how the coalition can sustain and grow. Guests including the Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation, the Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and representatives from Plan International and the Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka offered remarks affirming their support for youth-led development.

The ceremony closed with cultural performances and the distribution of eco-friendly souvenirs, capping off a day that formally introduced BYC as a collaborative platform for over 100 youth-led organizations across Bangladesh.