Foreign Adviser says July Uprising paved way for inclusive Bangladesh
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, now in New York, has said the July Uprising paved the way for a fairer and more inclusive Bangladesh under the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus.
"Our government, drawing its strength and legitimacy from citizens across all spectrums of our life was entrusted with a singular mandate: to rebuild the foundations of our republic that serves all its people," he said.
The Foreign Affairs Adviser was speaking at an event 'July Beyond Border' at the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the UN on July 28.
Over the past one year, he said, they have taken decisive steps to that end.
'We have repealed laws that stifled dissenting voices and eroded public trust. We have embarked on constitutional reform to ensure that no future regime can compromise the rights of people," Hossain said.
He said they are overhauling the electoral process to restore credibility, inclusiveness, and the sanctity of the people’s choice.
"We have initiated institutional repair, reviving the independence of our courts and commissions. And most importantly, we have created real space for young people to lead," Hossain said.
He said the youth who once led the protest rallies are now designing programmes, driving digital innovations, and helping them chart their governance and development policies.
"When young people are trusted, they can change our societies for the better. They are the ultimate beacon of hope in times of political inertia or crises of public trust," Hossain said, adding that this is where the story of July resonates far beyond their borders. "This is where our journey intersects with everyone else’s."
Hossain said their experience with youth leadership is relatable in the comity of nations too.
"Our story deeply aligns with global frameworks that have strong focus on youth. To us, Youth, Peace and Security agenda, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, or more recent Pact for the Future are not abstract aspirations. They speak directly of our lived reality," he said.
The Foreign Adviser said, "Let us move beyond just commemoration and celebration. Let us continue this conversation – here, and beyond these walls."
He also said, "Let us invest in policies, platforms, and partnerships that place youth at the heart of leadership. Their courage, energy, and creativity will illuminate our path toward a more peaceful, just, and sustainable world."
Hossain said just one year ago, the nation witnessed the profound power of youths.
"A movement led by our students ignited a mass upsurge and was embraced by every segment of our society," he said, adding that their call for opportunity, equity and transparency soon evolved into a popular aspiration for systemic transformation across the country, leading to the ouster of a regime that had become completely autocratic.