Photo: National Parliament

DHAKA, July 12, 2026 (BSS)- Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal today stressed the need for parliament members to play a more proactive and people-oriented role in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the commitments of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). 

“The knowledge and experience gained through such initiatives should be translated into practical actions in their respective constituencies by engaging local people,” he said. 

The deputy speaker said this while presiding over an orientation workshop titled “Parliament’s Role in Realising SDGs and ICPD Commitments” at the Jatiya Sangsad today, said a press release of parliament secretariat.

Deputy Speaker expressed deep sorrow at the death of former Acting President and former Speaker Barrister Jamiruddin Sircar. He prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the release said. 

Kayser Kamal said he was attending the workshop not only as the Deputy Speaker but also as a member of parliament. He underscored the importance of transforming the workshop’s discussions into practical action plans instead of limiting them to formal deliberations. 

He said lawmakers have a vital role to play in promoting women’s empowerment, preventing gender-based violence and child marriage, and addressing the adverse impacts of climate change.  

As public representatives, they can bring positive changes by raising awareness, engaging local institutions and taking effective initiatives in their respective constituencies.

The Deputy Speaker said school-based awareness programmes could play an important role in educating students, parents and local communities about the harmful consequences of child marriage. He also stressed the need for concerted efforts to prevent gender-based violence and ensure gender equality. 

Highlighting the impacts of climate change, he said locally tailored plans are needed to address its effects on healthcare, environment and livelihoods, particularly in coastal and haor areas. He called for coordinated efforts to tackle challenges such as excessive rainfall, floods, waterlogging and siltation in rivers and wetlands. 

Kayser Kamal urged lawmakers to identify the problems of their constituencies and communicate with relevant authorities for appropriate action.  

He observed that school-based awareness campaign could effectively engage young people in preventing child marriage and strengthening climate resilience, while the direct involvement of MPs would further enhance the effectiveness of such initiatives.

Expressing optimism, he said implementation of the workshop’s recommendations would further strengthen parliament’s role in achieving the SDGs and ICPD commitments, enabling people to reap the benefits. 

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram attended the workshop as the chief guest, while Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni was present as the special guest. 

Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat Secretary Barrister Golam Sarwar Bhuiyan delivered the welcome address. 

Whips, lawmakers, representatives of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and officials of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat, among others, were present.