Local Communities Take Center Stage in Bangladesh’s SDG Journey BIISS–UNOPS Roundtable Underscores Grassroots Leadership in Achieving Development Goals

Dhaka, 4 September 2025 — The Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS), in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), convened a high-level roundtable today titled “The Power of Local: How Grassroots Communities Drive SDG Achievement in Bangladesh.” 

The event highlighted the critical role of community-led initiatives in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Participants included senior government officials, diplomats, academics, youth representatives and grassroots leaders, who gathered at the BIISS Auditorium to discuss how Bangladesh can leverage local innovation and governance to address enduring development challenges. 

Opening the dialogue, Major General Iftekhar Anis, Director General of BIISS, emphasized, “Real progress lies in the hands of our local communities. Their lived experiences and solutions are invaluable in shaping policies that truly leave no one behind.” 

Mr. Sudhir Muralidharan, Country Manager of UNOPS Bangladesh and Bhutan, underlined the importance of collaboration: “Together with BIISS, we are amplifying local voices and efforts. Sustainable, equitable change is only possible when it is rooted in inclusive planning and driven by community-led action.” As Chief Guest, H.E. Mr. Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen, Ambassador of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka, commended Bangladesh’s progress while stressing the need for stronger local institutions: “Bangladesh has shown remarkable development progress. Investing in local governance is not an option, it is essential for ensuring lasting and equitable growth.” Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Maruful Islam, Professor of Development Studies at the University of Dhaka, identified gaps in data and governance at the local level: “We have the vision, but to realize it we must empower local actors, safeguard their autonomy, and strengthen data and institutions to turn plans into tangible outcomes.” Representing the Government of Bangladesh, Mr. Iqbal Abdullah Harun, Secretary of the Ministry of Planning, reaffirmed official commitment: “Our priority is empowering local government bodies to lead SDG implementation. Their success is our nation’s success.” Dr. Michal Krejza, Head of Development Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Bangladesh, added: “The SDGs cannot succeed through a top-down approach. Involving local communities is paramount. The EU has consistently supported Bangladesh in localizing the SDGs, with women at the center.” Bringing a grassroots voice, Khushi Kabir, Coordinator of Nijera Kori, stressed the importance of community-driven solutions: “When communities design and drive their own development, outcomes are more sustainable and just. This roundtable is a step towards recognizing that power.” The discussion concluded with a collective call to strengthen local data systems, improve financing mechanisms, and advance deeper collaboration among government, development partners, and civil society to accelerate progress toward the SDGs. About BIISS The Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) is a premier research institute dedicated to advancing policy-relevant studies on international and strategic affairs. About UNOPS The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) supports the UN and partners worldwide in delivering peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects through expertise in infrastructure, procurement, human resources and project management. Media Contact: Karishma Mahfuz +8801746660676 karishmam@unops.org