Launch of Young People Advisory Group in Bangladesh
As the world approaches International Youth Day on 12 August, UNICEF has taken a significant step by officially launching the Young People Advisory Group (YPAG) in Bangladesh. This initiative marks a major milestone in the organization's ongoing efforts to amplify youth voices and ensure their meaningful participation in shaping policies and programs that affect children and young people across the country.
International Youth Day serves as an annual platform to highlight youth issues and celebrate the potential of young people as key partners in global society. The theme for IYD 2025, "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond," emphasizes the crucial role of youth in transforming global ambitions into tangible, community-driven actions. It also underscores the importance of local and regional governments in this process.
With the global community working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, IYD 2025 calls for increased investments in inclusive policies and programs that harness the power of local youth initiatives. This aligns with the vision of leaders who recognize the transformative potential of young people when given the right opportunities and support.
The YPAG was formed by alumni of UNICEF's Young Leadership Programme, which was organized in collaboration with the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) at the National University of Singapore. This group represents a collection of highly trained and committed young leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to drive real and lasting change.
The Young Leadership Programme was initiated at the request of Chief Adviser Prof Mohammed Yunus. During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly last year, he emphasized the need for an environment where young people can thrive, innovate, and lead. His call for youth empowerment resonated strongly with the goals of the YPAG, which aims to strengthen the connection between youth leadership and the achievement of the SDGs.
Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, "This initiative is a powerful reminder of what happens when we invest in young people: they lead, they inspire, and they deliver impact." She added that the YPAG is more than just a platform—it is a force for accountability, inclusion, and action. The leadership program they undertook has provided them with essential skills to influence and channel their passion for change through dialogue and policy development, working alongside experienced policy makers.
The launch of YPAG comes at a critical time for Bangladesh, especially with national elections approaching. The voices of young people are more important than ever in shaping the future of the country. The group will play a leading role in advocacy, ensuring that children's rights remain central to public discussions during this pivotal period.
Saria Chowdhury, a member of the YPAG, said, "The formation of YPAG could not be more timely. It is clearer than ever that young people are not only ready to lead, but have already begun shaping the future of this nation." Neamul Islam, another member, added, "Our goal with YPAG is not just to change minds—but to help shape a more just and inclusive nation by inspiring civic participation and policy awareness among young people."
Building on their leadership training and shared commitment to social change, the group will provide strategic input into UNICEF’s program design, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring these are more responsive to youth needs. Members will also lead advocacy efforts at local and national levels, mentor younger participants in UNICEF’s youth initiatives, and spearhead alumni-led projects focused on critical child rights issues.
By elevating young voices and fostering intergenerational collaboration, the YPAG will help UNICEF remain accountable to the communities it serves and empower a new generation of leaders to drive sustained impact. This model draws from successful UNICEF initiatives in countries like Malaysia, Iraq, and Thailand, and is tailored to the unique context of Bangladesh, where young people are not only the future but also the present drivers of innovation, equity, and social transformation.
UNICEF believes that by investing in the leadership and expertise of youth, it can ensure more responsive, sustainable, and impactful programs that truly address the needs and aspirations of all children and young people.