Youth dialogue stresses inclusive leadership, intergenerational partnership

A national dialogue has called for inclusive leadership and stronger intergenerational partnership to empower Bangladesh’s youth in shaping the country’s democratic and social future.

Organised by the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC) with support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the event titled “Youth Perspectives on Social Progress: Grassroots, Networks, and Leadership Voices” was held on Wednesday at a city Hotel.

The dialogue brought together youth representatives, policymakers, academics, and development partners to reflect on young people’s aspirations, challenges, and potential contributions to Bangladesh’s progress.

Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud, Adviser to the Ministry of Planning, attended the event as the chief guest, while Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, Executive Chairman of PPRC, led the proceedings and presented the initiative Meaningful Youth Engagement for a Democratic Future of Bangladesh.

Dr Rahman underscored the need to recognise youth diversity and context. “Youth are not a monolithic group—they differ by age, socio-economic background, gender, and experience. To truly empower them, we must understand these differences and respond to the distinct needs of each group,” he said.

Professor Mahmud highlighted the importance of mentorship and constructive direction. “Young people have the desire to serve their country, but often lack guidance. The seniors must help show the way so that this energy transforms intoa  meaningful national contribution,” he noted.

The event featured intergenerational reflections from academics and youth leaders, including Professor Syed M Hashemi, Mr Altaf Parvez, Ms Nishat Majumdar, Ms Nazifa Jannat, and Ms Umama Zillur.

A panel discussion on “Pathways of Youth Engagement” included contributions from Ms Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh; filmmaker and cultural entrepreneur Mr Tanim Noor; and Mr M M Fazlul Haque Arif of the National Scout Movement.

Several thematic youth dialogues explored issues such as aspirations, inclusion, and barriers to participation, facilitated by a mix of senior mentors and young leaders.

The event concluded with the IPSP Global Social Progress Week Youth Panel featuring Aonkita Dey, Bhuiyan M Asaduzzaman, Namira Shameem, and Shamir Shehab, connecting Bangladesh’s youth dialogue to global conversations on justice, democracy, and sustainability.

The convening reaffirmed that youth engagement is not a separate agenda but central to the country’s democratic and developmental future. Insights from the discussions will inform the next phase of PPRC’s Meaningful Youth Engagement initiative, which aims to advance evidence, dialogue, and action for strengthening youth leadership in governance and social progress.

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