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The 3rd Annual Community of Practice Network Convention 2026, themed “Women Leading Climate Adaptation: Learning and Challenges,” convened in Dhaka, with speakers advocating for increased recognition of women's leadership, local knowledge, and unpaid care work. Organized by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) with UN Women support, the event emphasized women's crucial contributions to climate adaptation, agriculture, and sustainable development.

Dr Md Lutfor Rahman, director general of the Department of Environment, underscored the necessity of reducing carbon emissions while acknowledging women's pivotal role in agriculture and food production. He stated that environmental protection requires practical, economically viable solutions and that women's contributions must be properly recognized in climate adaptation efforts. The department expressed readiness to support collective work toward a climate-resilient future.

Susanne Wadstein, first secretary at the Embassy of Sweden, highlighted the strong links between climate change, women's empowerment, and sexual and reproductive health, advocating for a holistic approach. She encouraged civil society representatives to assert their expertise and positions, recognizing them as the primary actors in this field.

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You are the ones doing the work. You understand your own work best, and it is important that you make your own positions strong.

Navanita Sinha, deputy representative of UN Women, pointed out the significant challenges posed by the current global political and economic climate to development initiatives. She stressed the importance of maintaining the quality of interventions, strengthening partnerships with implementing organizations, and collaborating closely with relevant government ministries.

Banasree Mitra Neogi, acting executive director of MJF, called for the proper recognition of women's leadership, unpaid care work, and economic contributions in national planning and budgeting. She noted MJF's long-standing advocacy on this issue, dating back to 2012, and mentioned efforts like the Time-Use Survey and calculating the value of unpaid work. Neogi acknowledged that the journey ahead will be challenging, both in terms of resources and social standing.

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Our journey has only just begun. The coming days will be more challenging, both in terms of resources and social standing.