Bangladeshi Climate Activist Sohanur Wins YAS24 Award

Sohanur Rahman, a leading climate activist and youth leader of Bangladesh

Sohanur Rahman, a leading climate activist and youth leader from Bangladesh, was honored with the prestigious Young Activist Laureate Award at the 2024 Young Activists Summit (YAS24), held on November 19 at the United Nations Palais des Nations in Geneva. Rahman, the founder of YouthNet for Climate Justice, was one of five global youth leaders recognized for their outstanding contributions to environmental justice, human rights, and democracy.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Rahman dedicated the award to "young warriors fighting for justice" and stressed the importance of collective action in confronting the world’s most pressing challenges. The summit, themed "Go Far, Go Together", emphasized collaboration and unity in addressing critical global issues like climate change.

Rahman’s personal journey towards climate advocacy was shaped by his childhood experience surviving the devastating Cyclone Sidr. This life-changing event fueled his commitment to fighting for climate justice. Under his leadership, YouthNet has played a pivotal role in mobilizing youth across Bangladesh, influencing significant policy changes, such as the cancellation of ten planned coal-fired power plants and the declaration of the climate crisis as a planetary emergency by the Bangladesh Parliament in 2019.

Beyond environmental advocacy, Rahman has also been a vocal proponent of democratic reforms in Bangladesh. His involvement in the country's pro-democracy movement has earned him international acclaim. At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Rahman represented Bangladesh as a youth delegate, where he met with global leaders like Professor Muhammad Yunus and Lutfey Siddiqui, who praised his tireless efforts for social and environmental justice.

His work has drawn recognition from global institutions, including the US Embassy and the EU Mission in Geneva, who congratulated him for his outstanding contributions to climate justice and youth empowerment.

Founded in 2016, YouthNet has become a leading force in youth-led advocacy for sustainable development, gender equality, and social justice in Bangladesh. The organization continues to empower young people to take charge of their future through innovative campaigns and grassroots mobilization.

Rahman was one of five recipients of the YAS24 Award, alongside Marley Dias (USA), Shanley McLaren (France), Alvaro Quiroz (Mexico), and Cynthia Houniuhi (Solomon Islands), all of whom were recognized for their efforts in shaping a more just and sustainable world.

Sohanur Rahman’s recognition at YAS24 underscores the critical role of youth leadership in addressing global crises and highlights Bangladesh's growing influence in the global climate justice and democratic reform movements.