The NAGORIC Project meeting highlighted citizen-led efforts to strengthen inclusive governance, social inclusion and rights-based participation among marginalised communities in Rangpur’s Gangachara.
Community leaders and members of citizens’ platforms met in Gangachara, Rangpur, at the Quarterly Union level Nagorik Committee Meeting under the NAGORIC Project to discuss social accountability, civic participation and plans to observe International Right to Know Day.
The event was organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation, a Bangladesh-based rights organisation, in partnership with Social Equality for Effective Development and We Can.
Shafina Alam, Senior Development Advisor at the High Commission of Canada in Bangladesh, joined the meeting to observe how citizen-led platforms are creating opportunities for meaningful participation, strengthening local accountability and ensuring that the voices of marginalised communities are reflected in local governance processes.
The meeting began with a welcome address by Sarothi Rani Shaha, Executive Director of SEED.
Nishat Chowdhury, President of the Gajaghanta Union Citizen Committee, reflected on the progress achieved through the Citizen Platform so far and shared key milestones and the committee’s vision for the next phase of action.
Participants discussed social accountability, plans for observing International Right to Know Day and other agenda items.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Nishat Chowdhury, President of the Union Nagorik Committee. Representatives from Manusher Jonno Foundation and We Can also attended the programme.
Through sustained community engagement and citizen-led platforms, the NAGORIC Project is working to advance inclusive and accountable local governance by promoting social inclusion, strengthening civic participation and enabling marginalised communities to claim their rights and contribute to local development.
The initiative is supported by the Nagorikata: Civic Engagement Fund, funded by the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, the High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh and the European Union in Bangladesh, and managed by GFA Consulting Group.
