Forty young human rights fellows from across Bangladesh graduated from the fellowship programme, marking their transition from learners to community advocates committed to protecting rights and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Training and Impact
Supported by the Government of Switzerland, the fellowship led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) equipped the young leaders to promote human rights awareness, encourage safe reporting of violations, and inspire civic action. The graduates completed an intensive Training of Trainers programme before leading 241 online orientation sessions that reached 4,129 young people across Bangladesh.
Ceremony and Reflections
Held on Saturday in Gazipur, the graduation ceremony brought together fellows, trainers, and UNDP representatives. The event featured an impact presentation, reflections from alumni, certificate distribution, and discussions on the future of the fellowship model. Speaking at the event, Dragan Popovic, Senior Programme Advisor for Governance at UNDP Bangladesh, emphasized the fellows' role as educators, advocates, and trusted voices within their communities.
Broader Impact and Future Plans
The initiative is part of UNDP's broader efforts to support human rights defenders and strengthen cooperation among young advocates, civil society, the media, and national institutions. Implemented through the Strengthening Institutions, Policies and Services (SIPS) Project with support from Switzerland, it aims to build accountable and inclusive institutions, strengthen public oversight, and advance human rights, gender equality, peace, and justice in Bangladesh.






























