Bangladesh Harm Reduction Foundation: A step towards ensuring better public health policies

A major policy-focused press conference was held in the capital today (Tuesday) as the newly formed Bangladesh Harm Reduction Foundation (BHRF) brought together national and international experts to address three critical public health and safety challenges facing the country: Tobacco harm reduction, Pesticide Harm Reduction, and Road safety.

The event took place at Dhaka Reporters Unity, Segunbagicha, and marked BHRF’s first public initiative since its establishment earlier this year, according to a media release. 

The conference featured keynote addresses from leaders in public health, agriculture, and road transport.

Speakers underscored the urgent need for evidence-based strategies to minimise avoidable harm in these sectors—an approach central to BHRF’s mission.

Md. Shariful Islam PhD, Founding Trustee of BHRF, opened the discussion with a call for action grounded in science and empathy.

"Harm reduction is not a luxury—it’s a necessity in Bangladesh, where millions face preventable risks every day. Our goal is to bridge communities, policymakers, and experts to create practical solutions rooted in our national context," said Shariful.

Debashis Chatterjee, a promoter of pesticide stewardship & sustainable agricultural development and Bangladesh Crop Protection Association Manager (R & D), focused on pesticide safety and emphasised the need for proper training and oversight in the agricultural sector.

"Unsafe pesticide use continues to harm both farmers and the environment. We must invest in education and regulation to protect our rural communities," he said.

Salahud Din Ahmed, Road Safety Advocate and transport expert, presented data and recommendations aimed at reducing road traffic injuries, which remain a major public health concern in Bangladesh.

"We need to think beyond just vehicles—it's about safe roads, skilled drivers, and enforceable traffic laws. A national road safety plan is long overdue," said Salauddin Ahmed.

International public health diplomat and a physician with long track record in harm reduction advocacy Dr. Delon Human addressed tobacco harm reduction, drawing attention to alternative approaches that can reduce smoking-related disease without relying solely on prohibition.

"Bangladesh must consider safer nicotine alternatives alongside traditional control measures. Tobacco harm reduction could save countless lives if integrated responsibly into public health policy," said Dr. Human.

The press conference concluded with a Q&A session, allowing media representatives to engage directly with the speakers.

Participants from government bodies, NGOs, and the health sector welcomed BHRF’s initiative as a timely intervention in advancing health and safety through harm reduction, the release adds.