Moderator VFD
Professor Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, addressed the United Nations, urging international support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition. In his speech, Yunus stressed the importance of building an inclusive democracy based on the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.
Yunus highlighted his government’s ongoing reforms, including independent commissions to reform public administration, law enforcement, and the media, alongside efforts to create a fair business environment. These reforms aim to lay the foundation for free, fair, and inclusive elections.
Addressing global crises, Yunus called for a ceasefire in Gaza and urged a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He also spoke about the impact of the Ukraine war on global economics, including Bangladesh, and advocated for dialogue as a resolution. On the Rohingya crisis, he requested international assistance for the safe repatriation of refugees and accountability for human rights violations.
Yunus highlighted the urgent need for action on climate change, particularly for vulnerable countries like Bangladesh. He emphasized climate justice and called for investment in adaptation strategies, rapid implementation of the Loss and Damage Fund, and access to life-saving technologies.
He introduced the concept of “Three Zeroes”—zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions—as a global goal. Yunus also urged countries to support youth entrepreneurship and skill development, as well as responsible technological advancements in AI.
Yunus concluded by calling for stronger international cooperation to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, stressing the need for collective global action to overcome financial and structural challenges.
