She appreciates the role women and girls have been putting in this great cause and also in especially in decision-making processes at all levels of climate action
Regardless of their social strata and walks of life should always, females should have the privilege to continue contributing to the fight against the global climate change adversities, suggests a young activist Anika Tabassum.
The founder and general secretary the charity called Work for Better Society (WBS), Anika appreciates the role women and girls have been putting in this great cause and also in especially in decision-making processes at all levels of climate action.
Anik, who attended COP29 in Baku last month, was talking to The Climate Watch in a recent interview, narrating her taught and expectations regarding the climate change impacts not only in Bangladesh, but across the world.
Below is the full interview.
CW: What did you observe at COP?
Anika: At COP29, I observed how developed nations are addressing the impacts of climate change and the steps they are taking for mitigation. The discussions highlighted various issues faced by different countries. For instance, people suffer from extreme heat in Africa, and floods devastate riverbank communities in Bangladesh, leaving people homeless.
I also learned how developed nations use sustainable technology and advanced strategies to protect themselves from climate change impacts. Additionally, through various seminars, I met technical experts who are conducting research and providing solutions to these pressing problems.
As a representative from Bangladesh, I focused on gaining insights into solutions for the challenges our country faces, particularly the recurring floods in our riverine areas. I emphasised the importance of early preparation and effective strategies to combat such issues.
Another key observation was the offer of loan assistance from the UN to Bangladesh. However, we have made it clear that we are not seeking loans but grants, as we are victims of climate change and need support to recover, not debt that could further burden us.
CW: Please, tell us something about climate change and its impact on women and their role in addressing it.
Anika: This year’s conference placed significant importance on how climate change disproportionately affects women’s lives. Women and children are often the most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change due to financial hardship and systemic inequalities.
Several seminars highlighted women’s leadership in climate action. I saw firsthand how women are making strides not only in advocacy but also in technological innovations to combat climate change. There was a strong emphasis on amplifying women’s voices and initiatives, especially in decision-making processes at all levels of climate action.
Women are playing critical roles in global and local policymaking and in providing solutions to climate issues. It was inspiring to see many women leading international organisations and even holding influential government positions. This reinforces the need for increased participation and leadership of women in climate-related initiatives in our country as well.
CW: What topics received the most attention?
Anika: The primary focus this year was on climate finance and net-zero goals.
Climate finance refers to financial resources allocated for mitigating and adapting to climate change. These resources may come from grants, loans, or domestic budgets and can be managed by multilateral development banks or other international agencies. The aim is to facilitate the transfer of public funds from developed to developing nations.
Net-zero goals focus on achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This involves setting new emission reduction targets, promoting international carbon market growth, and accelerating the development of clean energy technologies.
CW: How do you feel about your experience at the UN climate conference?
Anika: Participating in COP29 allowed me to identify key challenges faced by various countries and gain valuable insights that will help in future research and policymaking.
I had the opportunity to connect with several experts, whom I can invite to collaborate on addressing Bangladesh’s climate issues. It is crucial for us to ensure that climate change does not hinder our nation’s progress. We need to adopt advanced technologies and community-based solutions to address these challenges effectively.
Anika Tabassum is also an artist affiliated with the Bangladesh Cinema and Television Institute and she uses her creative talents to raise awareness about social issues. She is the founder of several influential initiatives, including WBS, which is focused education, youth empowerment, and human rights. Anika also founded Bidyasova, a school providing free education for underprivileged children, and Nari Shakti, a women’s employment brand empowering economically disadvantaged women. Additionally, she leads Goldfox Visual Production House, promoting storytelling and cultural innovation through media.
