In a groundbreaking initiative, the Bangladesh Medical Students’ Society (BMSS Bangladesh), in collaboration with The Earth and Climate Parliament Bangladesh, orchestrated the very first policy dialogue titled “A Comprehensive Dialogue on Climate Change and Health Issues in Bangladesh.” This pivotal event, held at the Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control And Research (IEDCR) on December 20, 2023, marked the inauguration of the Health Professionals’ Forum, a dedicated platform initiated by BMSS to address the intricate intersection of climate change and health.
The dialogue, a culmination of open and collaborative discussions, drew insights and expertise from a distinguished panel of speakers, including Prof. Dr. Tahmina Shirin, Director of IEDCR, and Prof Dr Iqbal Kabir, Director of the Climate Change and Health Promotion Unit at HSD, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The engaging dialogue unfolded under the guidance of influential figures like Dr. Abu Jamil Faisel, Public Health Expert Advisor at DGHS, MOHFW, and Mohammad Mamun Mia, Executive Director of The Earth.
The dialogue not only served as a platform for informed discussions but also set the stage for the Health Professionals’ Forum to play a dynamic role in addressing the profound impacts of climate change on health. Plans were unveiled, including forging strategic partnerships, implementing community outreach programs, and advancing research initiatives. The event, attended by 30 selected participants from 20 medical colleges, marked a significant step for BMSS into the realm of policy-making.
Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the Honorable Speakers and media personnel present, the dialogue demonstrated a collective commitment to navigating and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on health. The policy briefs crafted during this dialogue are slated for submission to the National Parliament, DGHS, and DGME, signifying a tangible outcome that will influence and shape policies concerning climate change and health in Bangladesh.
As the event concluded on December 20, 2023, it left a lasting impact on the trajectory of BMSS, positioning the organization as a catalyst for positive change. The calm for policy SWGs of BMSS will soon open, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their journey towards actively contributing to the resilience and well-being of the global community. Stay tuned for further developments as BMSS continues to make strides in policy-making and advocacy, driven by a collective vision for a healthier, more sustainable future.