Dhaka,

13 August 2025


Bangladesh’s Emerging Youth Leader at the UN Food Systems Summit+4

Tarek Hasan, Staff Correspondent

Published: 00:04, 11 August 2025

Bangladesh’s Emerging Youth Leader at the UN Food Systems Summit+4

Bangladesh proudly stood represented at the United Nations Food Systems Summit+4 (UNFSS+4) by the dynamic youth activist and environmental advocate, Ifrat Hossain.

The summit, held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), brought together global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and young changemakers to chart a course toward sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems worldwide.

Ifrat Hossain, serving as the Communication Coordinator for Mission Green Bangladesh, has long been at the forefront of environmental activism and youth leadership in Bangladesh. His participation in this landmark event underscored the vital role that young leaders play in shaping policies that address the intersecting challenges of climate change, food security, and sustainable development.

Although UN Secretary-General António Guterres joined the summit virtually, the physical gathering in Addis Ababa attracted heads of state, ministers, and representatives from across the globe, including Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed.

The summit’s plenaries and sessions focused on inclusive action, equity, and innovative solutions to transform global food systems. On the ground, Ifrat engaged directly with Ethiopia’s agricultural transformation by visiting the Modjo Integrated Poultry Farm, Avocado Nursery, and a large-scale Avocado Production Cluster.

There, he interacted with local farmers and young entrepreneurs driving sustainable agricultural innovation and boosting economic resilience. Beyond site visits, Ifrat actively participated in high-level panels and side events, such as the “Investment Dialogue: Strengthening Enabling Conditions Through Effective Policy Mechanisms,” where he highlighted the critical importance of coherent public policies and multi-sector partnerships in accelerating food system transformation. Reflecting on his experience, Ifrat Hossain stated, “Food security and climate change are global crises that demand urgent, collective action—especially from the youth, who hold the key to sustainable futures.

Representing Bangladesh at the UNFSS+4 has been an immense honor and a powerful platform to amplify young voices calling for bold change.”

Ifrat’s involvement in UNFSS+4 not only elevates Bangladesh’s presence on the global stage but also inspires a new generation of leaders to champion sustainable development and climate resilience at home. As an active member of the UPG Sustainability Leadership Class of 2025 and a committed advocate through Mission Green Bangladesh, Ifrat continues to work tirelessly toward a greener, more equitable future for all.

Experts and observers regard Ifrat Hossain as a rising force in international environmental leadership whose vision and dedication will help steer Bangladesh and the global community toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

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