Details

Created: 10 March 2024

DHAKA, March 9, 2024 (BSS) - Environment Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury today said all concerned must come forward to combating climate change as it is a global challenge.

He also highlighted the pivotal role of artists in raising public awareness about climate change impacts.

Saber underscored the need for inspiring individuals to consider the impacts of climate change and take proper action.

The environment minister made the remarks while talking to reporters after joining as the chief guest the closing ceremony of "Chalman", a solo exhibition on climate change and women, held at Alok's Neighborhood Art Space Shala Gallery in the capital.

Responding to a question, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to combatting climate change in collaboration with the international community. 

He said steps have been taken for extensive afforestation, scaling up renewable energy production, and implementing adaptation measures for communities vulnerable to climate impacts.

The minister urged all segments of society to be proactive in addressing the adverse impacts of climate change.

The event was attended by Ruxmini Reqvana Q Chowdhury, founder and director of Alokir The Neighborhood Art Space; renowned Bangla Academy awardee Noorjahan Bose, as well as artists, art critics, and cultural figures.

At the exhibition, US expatriate artist Monica Jahan Bose showcased the effects of climate change through a multi-dimensional presentation, including a three-channel video, saree installation art, and a performance involving women from the climate-vulnerable Katakhali village in Patuakhali. 

These participants shared firsthand accounts of climate impacts on coastal regions.
 

Details

Created: 16 December 2023

Comilla, December 16, 2023 (Khairul Ahsan Manik) - In a joint effort, Step to Humanity Bangladesh and the Bangladesh North American Journalists Network marked the 53rd Victory Day tonight with a profound acknowledgment of the sacrifices and resilience that defined the heroic struggle of the Bengali nation.

The event, presided over by Delwar Zahid, Executive Command of the Canada Unit of Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad and President of the Bangladesh North American Journalist Network, was organized to pay homage to the countless martyrs, intellectuals, and sisters who lost their lives during the liberation war. Zahid expressed a steadfast commitment to preserving the spirit of freedom by recognizing the invaluable contributions of the freedom fighters who played a pivotal role in securing Bangladesh's independence.

Kamrul Hasan, the Director of Step to Humanity Bangladesh and the main speaker, shared poignant stories and perspectives during the event with Anwar Zahid, the eldest son of Shahid Sadek from Dhaka University and former director of Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development, as the guest of honor.

Eminent speakers from Step to Humanity Bangladesh and the Bangladesh North American Journalists Network provided insights into Victory Day's contemporary relevance and significance, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the liberation war.

The meeting featured addresses from various notable figures, including Senior Teacher Shirin Ferdoshi, journalist Shamsul Habib, and Former Director of BARD Nasima Akter, Md. Rafat Hossain, Kora Hossain Evana. In attendance were Journalist Md. Firoz Miah, Asrar Jahid, and Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Editor of The Daily Global Nation.

Delwar Jahid, a courageous freedom fighter, highlighted that the liberation war was not just a regional struggle but a manifestation of the visionary politics of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, promoting democracy, secularism, nationalism, and socialism. He lamented the challenges faced by the country over the past 53 years, citing corruption, inequality, and communalism as persistent issues hindering the realization of Bangabandhu's dream of liberating farmers and laborers.

President of Step to Humanity-Bangladesh, Kamrul Hasan, expressed pride in the nation's resilience, emphasizing that the enemies defeated in 1971 failed in their attempt to deprive the country of its merit. Under the capable leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter, Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh continues progressing towards its goals despite facing obstacles.

Dr. Anwar underscored the contemporary challenge of safeguarding freedom and emphasized Bangladesh's global prominence as a role model. He called for patriotic unity to protect and uphold hard-fought freedom.

Khairul Ahsan Manik remarked that, even after 52 years, the spirit of the freedom fighters remains embedded in history, asserting that public awareness is crucial for the meaningful preservation of freedom.

Sajjad Hossain emphasized the importance of the younger generation understanding the history, asserting that no conspiracy can overshadow the country's identity.

Following the Victory Day celebration, Step to Humanity Bangladesh conducted an executive council meeting under the leadership of Kamrul Hasan. The meeting addressed future collaborations, community outreach programs, and fundraising strategies to enhance humanitarian initiatives and impactful journalism. Step to Humanity Bangladesh aims to tackle social issues and assist those in need. At the same time, the Bangladesh North American Journalists Network focuses on accurate and impactful reporting in their upcoming journalism efforts. Executive council members actively participated in the discussions, shaping the direction of their collective initiatives.

Details

Created: 02 December 2023

The Alberta government is implementing a new Family Justice Strategy to enhance the family justice system, particularly for individuals handling family law matters. Recognizing the stress and difficulties associated with court proceedings, the initiative seeks to streamline and align family justice services across different courts. The strategy focuses on improving accessibility and support for Albertans, especially those representing themselves in cases like divorces, spousal support agreements, parenting arrangements, or child support orders.

Key Points:

Service Alignment: The Family Justice Strategy aims to standardize services in both the Alberta Court of Justice and the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta. This ensures that Albertans have consistent access to services, regardless of the specific court or legislation governing their case.

Pre-Court Services Expansion: A $5-million investment from Budget 2023 supports the expansion of pre-court services in Edmonton and Calgary. These services include alternative dispute resolution, family court counsellors, and parenting interventions. By offering these resources before filing a claim or attending court, individuals can make informed decisions about settling matters outside of court.

Family Resolution Hub: The government is introducing an online tool called the Family Resolution Hub to provide information to Albertans dealing with family law matters. This platform, accessible across the province from December, will offer guidance on divorce initiation, guardianship applications, and parenting arrangement renegotiations.

Financial Support: The $5-million investment also supports the Family Justice Strategy, contributing to the expansion of pre-court services. This financial backing underscores the government's commitment to making the family justice system more accessible and less stressful for Albertans.

Endorsement from Stakeholders: The Family Justice Strategy has received support from stakeholders, including the Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Alberta and the Alberta Family Mediation Society. These organizations commend the approach, emphasizing the benefits of alternative dispute resolution in reducing financial and emotional costs for families.

In conclusion, Alberta's Family Justice Strategy represents a comprehensive effort to improve the family justice system by enhancing access, providing valuable pre-court services, and leveraging technology through the Family Resolution Hub. The goal is to alleviate stress on families and individuals dealing with family law matters during challenging times, ultimately promoting more effective and family-friendly dispute resolution.(ANV/AI)