UNFPA lauds govt for adopting inclusive, climate-resilient healthcare plan

The UNFPA in Bangladesh on Tuesday lauded the government for adopting the Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP) 2026–2031, a landmark step toward building a climate-resilient, inclusive low carbon and sustainable health system.

The Plan was formally launched at a national dissemination workshop in Dhaka, bringing together government leaders, development partners, UN agencies, academia and civil society.

The HNAP provides a strategic framework to address the growing health risks posed by climate change, including rising temperatures, floods, cyclones and shifting disease patterns. It outlines strategies and priority actions to strengthen health system preparedness and resilience to ensure continuity of essential services, and better protect vulnerable populations from climate-related health impacts.

The UNFPA said it is proud to have supported the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in the development of the HNAP, in close partnership with the World Health Organization, the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research, and the Climate Change and Health Promotion Unit of the Ministry along with other partners. 

The Plan also benefited from the generous support of the Government of the United Kingdom and the Government of Sweden, whose commitment has been instrumental in advancing Bangladesh’s climate and health agenda.

Bangladesh is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, with increasing exposure to extreme weather events and climate-sensitive diseases. Climate shocks limit access to sexual and reproductive health services, increase maternal health risks, and heighten exposure to gender-based violence, making climate-resilient health systems not only a necessity, but a matter of rights and equity.

“The adoption of the Health National Adaptation Plan marks a critical milestone for Bangladesh. Climate change is a public health crisis, affecting women and girls the most,” said Catherine Breen Kamkong, UNFPA Representative in Bangladesh. “This Plan provides a clear pathway to ensure that even in the face of climate shocks, women can give birth safely, women and girls are protected from gender-based violence, young people can access essential services, and communities can rely on resilient, responsive health systems.”

The HNAP reportedly aligns with Bangladesh’s broader National Adaptation Plan and global commitments, and emphasizes coordinated, multi-sectoral action to reduce the health burden of climate change while strengthening preparedness and response systems. Its successful implementation will be key to safeguarding the health, dignity and future of millions of people in Bangladesh.