Bangladesh’s youth today are more vocal, united, and determined to bring about social change than ever before, according to Julian Francis, a humanitarian and lifelong friend of Bangladesh. Speaking on December 22, 2024, at an interactive session titled “Intergenerational Dialogue,” Francis reflected on the transformation of young Bangladeshis over the decades, emphasizing their critical role in shaping the country’s democratic and social progress. Held at Nazrul Mancha, Bangla Academy, the session was part of the Youth Policy Summit 2024, organized by IID and Youth for Policy (YfP). Moderated by Syeed Ahamed, CEO of IID, the dialogue brought together diverse perspectives on youth activism, intergenerational solidarity, and sustainable development.
During the session, Francis responded to questions raised by youth participants. Their inquiries covered a range of pressing issues, including the challenges of unemployment, inequality, and governance. Francis expressed admiration for the courage and determination of today’s youth, noting their increased willingness to stand up against injustice, voice their concerns, and work collectively to address societal issues. He highlighted their leadership during the July 2024 revolution, which he described as a powerful symbol of national unity and democratic restoration. “Compared to 25 years ago, young people in Bangladesh today are much more vocal and united in fighting for their rights,” Francis remarked, reflecting on how their activism had grown over time.
While praising their initiatives, Francis emphasized the importance of complementing activism with empathy and inclusion. He stressed that fostering a culture of listening, respecting diverse opinions, and prioritizing mental well-being would further strengthen their movements and contribute to a more cohesive society.
Reflecting on Bangladesh’s progress since its independence, Francis shared memories from the 1971 Liberation War, recalling the resilience of ordinary people during the massive refugee crisis. While acknowledging the nation’s advancements, he pointed out that challenges remain, particularly in bridging the education-skills gap and creating equitable opportunities for all. These issues, he suggested, could be addressed through innovative approaches led by the youth, such as promoting entrepreneurship and aligning academic curricula with practical skills.
Francis also described the July 2024 revolution as a transformative event for Bangladesh’s democracy, uniting people across generations in a shared fight against corruption and mismanagement. He credited the youth for leading this movement and urged them to champion transparency, fair elections, and constructive political dialogue to sustain its outcomes. Responding to questions about the brain drain phenomenon, Francis emphasized the need to create more opportunities for higher education, research, and entrepreneurship within Bangladesh to encourage talented individuals to contribute to national development.
In his concluding remarks, Francis called on young Bangladeshis to embrace their roles as agents of change. “The future of Bangladesh lies in your hands,” he said. “By combining innovation, empathy, and resilience, you can build a more inclusive and sustainable society.” His message resonated strongly with the audience, leaving them inspired and determined to continue their efforts toward creating a better Bangladesh for future generations.
The session ended with a message of hope, underscoring the transformative potential of youth activism and intergenerational collaboration. It served as a vibrant and inspiring highlight of the Youth Policy Summit 2024, a platform that successfully fostered dialogue and learning between generations to build a more inclusive and forward-thinking society.