Desk News: Rana Flowers has been designated as the new UNICEF Envoy to Bangladesh. In her capacity, she will provide strategic direction to UNICEF’s efforts aimed at enhancing vital social services for children, including child health and nutrition, water, and the safeguarding of children’s rights.

This announcement was made through a press release from UNICEF Bangladesh on Wednesday, September 4th. She officially presented her credentials to Md. Touhid Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During her meeting with the Foreign Affairs Adviser, Ms. Rana Flowers reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to defending the rights of every child in Bangladesh. She expressed optimism about initiating transformative changes in areas such as tackling the climate crisis, reforming the juvenile justice system, and improving educational programs to equip young people with the skills necessary for future employment.

Rana Flowers highlighted that this is a pivotal time for Bangladesh. She mentioned that she is deeply concerned about the many children, youth, and families affected by recent violence in the country, as well as those impacted by recent floods and cyclones.

She stated, “UNICEF works tirelessly out of a commitment and passion for protecting children’s rights. We believe that every child and young person has dignity and immense potential, and this belief guides our daily activities. There is still much to be done in collaboration with the government, the private sector, and UNICEF’s long-standing partners to advance the well-being of children and adolescents.”

The new UNICEF Envoy also mentioned that she is inspired by the call from Bangladesh’s children and youth to contribute to peacebuilding and creating a prosperous future for all. “We are listening to them,” she said. “On behalf of UNICEF, I commit that my team will do everything possible to support children and adolescents so that every child can survive and thrive in an environment free from violence, and where prosperity and equal opportunities are available to all.”

The press release further noted that under her leadership, UNICEF will continue to support the interim government of Bangladesh in identifying and implementing necessary actions for both immediate and long-term change. Alongside its ongoing developmental projects, UNICEF will also maintain its dedicated efforts in providing immediate humanitarian aid to those most affected by emergencies such as cyclones and floods. Moreover, UNICEF will continue its work in protecting the rights of refugee children living in camps, emphasizing that every child is important.

Rana Flowers, an Australian national, brings over 35 years of experience in international development, child development, and policy advocacy. She has previously served as the UNICEF Envoy in China, Cambodia, Mongolia, and Belize.

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