Shaheen Alam: A voice for Bangladesh's high-risk coastal communities

Shaheen Alam, a climate activist from the coastal region of Satkhira in Bangladesh, has been on the frontlines of climate action since childhood. Growing up in Padmapukur, an island union constantly battered by cyclones like Aila, Amphan, and Bulbul, Shaheen witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of climate change on his community. This exposure fueled his passion for activism and led him to become a key advocate for the people of the coastal region.

Known as the "Upkool Express" (Coastal Express) for his relief efforts, Shaheen has tirelessly provided support to his community—delivering food, water, and essential supplies like nutritious meals for pregnant women and sanitary napkins for girls in need. His work focuses on amplifying the voices of coastal communities who are most at risk from climate change, particularly as rising sea levels and frequent natural disasters continue to displace families.

Now at 24, Shaheen is the Dhaka Divisional Coordinator for 'Youthnet for Climate Justice', an environmental organization empowering youth in climate activism. He is also a student of Social Science and Social Work at Gono Bishwabidyalay (GB).

In November 2024, Shaheen will represent Bangladesh at COP-29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he plans to highlight the plight of people in Satkhira, a region becoming increasingly uninhabitable due to climate change. At COP-29, Shaheen's central message will be a call for 'global accountability'—urging developed countries to take responsibility for their historical emissions and provide financial aid to countries like Bangladesh that are bearing the brunt of climate change.

Shaheen’s participation in COP-29 is not just a personal milestone but a crucial opportunity to present the stories of the most vulnerable communities to the world. "It’s a fight for life and death," says Shaheen, underscoring the urgency of the situation in Satkhira. His demands are simple but critical: 'developed nations must fulfill their climate finance pledges', reduce carbon emissions to zero, and ensure that coastal communities are supported through adaptation and mitigation efforts.

Beyond the conference, Shaheen dreams of a future where 'coastal children' are guaranteed basic rights from birth, and families are no longer forced to abandon their homes due to climate impacts. For him, it’s about securing long-term solutions that protect the people and environment of the coastal regions, not just providing temporary relief.

As a 'media activist', Shaheen continues to raise awareness about the challenges faced by coastal communities, using social media to amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change. His work represents the broader struggle of millions of people on the frontlines of the climate crisis, and he remains committed to fighting for their rights and survival.