Add indigenous voices to nat’l youth policy
Speakers at a discussion yesterday called for a review of the National Youth Policy 2017 to make it more inclusive for indigenous youths.They argued that the policy must ensure recognition, representation, and meaningful participation of indigenous youths in national development.The Bangladesh Indigenous Youth Forum (BIYF) organised the dialogue titled "No One Left Behind: Ensuring Inclusion, Meaningful Participation, and Progress of Marginalised Indigenous Youths through Re-evaluation of the Na...
Speakers at a discussion yesterday called for a review of the National Youth Policy 2017 to make it more inclusive for indigenous youths.
They argued that the policy must ensure recognition, representation, and meaningful participation of indigenous youths in national development.
The Bangladesh Indigenous Youth Forum (BIYF) organised the dialogue titled "No One Left Behind: Ensuring Inclusion, Meaningful Participation, and Progress of Marginalised Indigenous Youths through Re-evaluation of the National Youth Policy 2017" at The Daily Star Centre in Dhaka.
Presenting the keynote paper, BIYF General Secretary Monira Tripura said indigenous youths remain overlooked in policy and development plans despite their significant role in the country's workforce and culture.
Falguni Tripura, general secretary of the Bangladesh Indigenous Women's Network, said the lack of data on indigenous youths makes policymaking difficult.
"We need youth-friendly spaces and counselling support, especially in the CHT and remote plains. We must work together for a fairer and more inclusive future," she said.
Sanjeeb Drong, general secretary of Bangladesh Indigenous Peoples Forum, said the policy should be reviewed every five years. "Now is the right time to include indigenous voices. They are equal citizens of Bangladesh, and their rights are part of the state's responsibilities," he said.
Ripun Chandra Banai, an executive member of the forum, urged the government to ensure indigenous participation in the 2027 policy review and formally recognise the term "Adivasi" in state documents.
Writer and researcher Pavel Partha said the youth policy lacks an inclusive and pluralist vision and fails to represent rural and indigenous youths. He called for bilingual education, digital access, and protection of traditional skills.
Drinja Chambugong, staff reporter at Prothom Alo, said indigenous organisations should gather accurate data before seeking stronger inclusion in policy. He suggested they prepare a 15- to 20-point action plan for the next review. BIYF President Anthony Rema, VP Tony Chiran and Finance Secretary Anannya Drong were also present.