Women Chapter International (WCI) received funding from the Swedish Institute for the project “Promoting SRH Services and Information for Women and Girls in Climate-Vulnerable Areas of Bangladesh.” The project was implemented in collaboration with Initiative for Right View (IRV), a grassroots organization based in the North-Southern coastal region of Bangladesh.
This seed project, with a total funding of 99,614 SEK, was launched in 2022 and successfully concluded in 2024.
Under this project, our local partner Initiative for Right View (IRV) collaborated with young change-makers and local elected bodies to address sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in climate-vulnerable southwest coastal regions of Bangladesh. These areas face high rates of early marriage, and women and girls are particularly vulnerable to gender-based violence (GBV). Through IRV’s efforts, the project aimed to raise awareness, promote SRHR services, and empower communities to challenge these pressing issues.
“The project engaged a group of 50 youth change-makers, equipping them with knowledge and skills to advocate for SRHR. Their efforts were further amplified by the active involvement of journalist groups, who played a crucial role in disseminating information on SRHR issues to a wider audience. This advocacy has made a tangible difference, and it is expected that the project will contribute to influencing local elected bodies to take action in improving the situation of women and girls.”
In 2023, IRV in Bangladesh carried out several key activities, including mapping youth volunteers, forming a youth change-maker group, building their capacity, and establishing a journalist group. Additionally, the project conducted journalist orientations held regular coordination meetings with youth, facilitated dialogues with local elected bodies (LEBs), and developed training modules to support these initiatives.
Although the project currently lacks further funding, WCI and IRV remain committed to sustaining and expanding its impact. We are actively seeking new funding opportunities to build on the progress made and continue addressing SRHR and gender-based violence in climate-vulnerable regions.
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