Prioritise safety for local aid workers

Speakers at a discussion yesterday said the safety and security of aid workers in Bangladesh, especially those involved in humanitarian responses to the Rohingya crisis, should be given the highest priority.

They also urged international development organisations to take leadership role and provide support to the local non-government organisations in planning and implementing any humanitarian activities for the best outcome.

COAST Foundation, Cox's Bazar CSO-NGO Forum (CCNF) and BDCSO Coordination Process organised the virtual discussion titled "No Matter What - Together We Stand Beside Affected Communities - Empower Local Actors," marking World Humanitarian Day 2023.

M Mustafa Kamal Akanda, director of COAST Foundation, and Md Iqbal Uddin from the same organisation, presented a keynote at the event.

In his keynote presentation, Md Iqbal Uddin laid emphasis on the importance of advocating for the well-being, dignity, and survival of all humanitarian workers, while also ensuring them fair compensation, adequate facilities, life insurance, and comprehensive support.

He also emphasised dedicating 25 percent of direct funding to local organisations.

Abu Morshed Chowdhury, co-chair of Cox's Bazar CSO-NGO Forum (CCNF), proposed a risk-sharing concept involving all partners, including donors, to ensure that project designs incorporate effective risk management strategies.

Nilima Jahan stressed the need to create a positive environment for female humanitarian workers at camp levels and provide them with necessary logistical support.

Khandakar Faruk Ahmed suggested allowing non-registered organisations to work as associated entities in emergency projects.

Amir Hossain of NGO Platform advocated for direct funding from donors to local organisations to minimise costs and promote local leadership.