Youth leaders from across Bangladesh recently gathered in Dhaka for a dialogue on “Discrimination Free Bangladesh: Youth Manifesto’24.” Organized by Youth for Policy, the event prominently featured their 11-point demand, presented as a youth manifesto aimed at fostering a more inclusive and non-discriminatory Bangladesh.
Historically, Bangladesh’s youth have been at the forefront during national crises, demonstrating resilience and a quest for change. In 2024, their pivotal role in the anti-discrimination movement set the foundation for a more equitable society. However, past experiences reveal a troubling trend: once the immediate crisis fades, the voices of young leaders are often marginalized. To counteract this, and to ensure that youth perspectives remain central to national development, following the movement, the youth leaders engaged in extensive consultations with peer groups held 20 forums across 18 districts, involving over 500 volunteers. These discussions tackled pressing issues including the need to reform the education curriculum to foster critical thinking and prepare youths for the future, revise the quota system to address discrimination, break the cycle of corruption, uphold freedom of speech, create a banking sector that supports young entrepreneurs, and ensure proper medical treatment for protesting students., culminating in a robust manifesto.
On September 17, 2024, at Hotel Bengal Blueberry, this manifesto was presented to key stakeholders, including the Jatiya Nagarik Committee, the National Liaison Committee, and the Re-strategizing the Economy for Equitable and Sustainable Development Taskforce.
The dialogue showcased the youth’s demands in detail. Estiak Ahmed and G.M. Rakib called for urgent curriculum reforms to foster critical thinking and future readiness. Niloy Saha and Rongthoing Mro emphasized the need for merit-based quotas for socially disadvantaged groups, advocating for justice and equality in education and employment. Ashif Iqbal Jubaer highlighted the necessity of transparency and accountability to combat corruption, urging a break from entrenched political cycles. Saiful Islam proposed reforms in the banking system, advocating for a framework that supports young entrepreneurs with easy loans and training. Tanzila Islam and Kifayat Ara Rifa underscored the importance of establishing permanent mechanisms for youth participation in politics. Md. Niamat Ullah and Umme Salma Neha stressed the protection of freedom of speech, particularly through repealing restrictive laws like the Digital Security Act. Sifat H. Soikot and Jahed Hasan called for a syndicate-free market system to ensure fair economic opportunities. Jannatul Ferdous and Eity Chowdhury demanded stringent legal oversight to promote environmental sustainability. Hanjala Sarkar raised concerns about equal internet access and legal measures against online criminal activities, while Mst. Marjia Swarna and Nishat Aunjum Semonti pushed for a decentralized healthcare system to ensure high-quality medical care. Finally, Ripon Mridha emphasized the need for an independent judiciary to maintain checks and balances across government branches.
AKM Fahim Mashroor, CEO of Bdjobs.com, called for youth representation in parliament to safeguard their interests. Mamun Abdullahil, member of the national liaison committee, emphasized the need to strengthen national unity. Arpita Shyama Dev of the Jatiya Nagarik Committee expressed support for the youth’s demands, hoping for broader youth representation across sectors. Umama Fatema, a key coordinator, stressed the importance of citizen vigilance to hold youth representatives accountable. Mahrukh Mohiuddin from University Press and Publications Limited (UPL) celebrated the newfound freedoms and called for ongoing momentum in national rebuilding. Syeed Ahamed, CEO of IID, highlighted that while youth have consistently steered the country back on track during crises, their sacrifices are often undermined when power shifts back to the older generation. To prevent this cycle and ensure lasting change, a permanent arrangement is essential.
Other notable attendees at the event included Sunjida Rahman, Head of Youth for Policy, and respected journalists from various media outlets.
As Youth for Policy moves forward, the organization remains committed to presenting these youth-led recommendations to local administrations and the government, ensuring that the voices of young people continue to shape the future of an inclusive Bangladesh.
