Start Bangladesh Hub participated in a roundtable discussion under the theme “Tackling Multidimensional Disasters Requires Stronger, Coordinated Efforts” marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2026

Start Bangladesh Hub participated in a roundtable discussion under the theme “Tackling Multidimensional Disasters Requires Stronger, Coordinated Efforts” marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2026. The roundtable was jointly organised by the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) and Prothom Alo, with support from the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, Start Bangladesh Hub, and Enfants du Monde (EdM).
The discussion highlighted the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness, improving coordination among government agencies and non-governmental organisations, and ensuring timely assistance reaches communities at risk.
Representing Start Bangladesh Hub, Country Manager Shofiul Alam emphasised that effective anticipatory action requires stronger local decision-making authority and greater engagement of local NGOs alongside government agencies. He also highlighted the importance of considering cash assistance to help people affected by cold waves cope with lost income.
Building locally led, coordinated approaches to disaster risk reduction is essential to ensuring that support reaches vulnerable communities before disasters strike.