Stories from the Front Line of Climate Change in Bangladesh

Ansar Ahmed Ullah
Climate change activists gathered at Queen Mary University of London on 4 November for an evening exploring how communities in Bangladesh are responding to the growing climate crisis.
The event, titled The Kindness of People to Face the Climate Crisis in Bangladesh Together, was organised by Peter Musgrave in collaboration with the Swadhinata Trust, as part of this year’s A Season of Bangla Drama.
An exhibition in the Arts One foyer opened the evening, displaying powerful photographs taken over many years across Bangladesh. The images captured the devastating effects of floods, cyclones and droughts, while also showing the strength and compassion of local people adapting to these challenges.
This year’s A Season of Bangla Drama carries the theme of kindness, a message reflected throughout the exhibition, which highlighted how local and international networks, including NGOs, are working together to support communities and protect the environment.
Following the exhibition, Peter Musgrave presented a talk at Bloc cinema, combining photographs, short films, music and poetry to bring the stories of resilience to life. Peter Musgrave has been involved in environmental work since the 1990s and spent nine years working with NGOs in Bangladesh. His presentation focused on the everyday realities of those living with the impacts of climate change.
The event was opened by Kazi Ruksana Begum, Tower Hamlets Arts Officer, alongside Anisha Chandrashekar from the Swadhinata Trust, who introduced Peter Musgrave.
Music was performed by Dr Shyamal Chowdhury, Sunita Chowdhury, Mitali Bonowary and Rumy Haque, while poetry was recited by Rumy Haque and Sunita Chowdhury. Technical support was provided by Sadeq Ahmed Chowdhury.
The event offered a powerful reminder of the connections between global climate issues and local communities and how kindness and cooperation can help build resilience both at home and abroad.