Staff Reporter :
The newly appointed UNICEF Representative to Bangladesh, Rana Flowers, has committed to ensuring that children in Bangladesh thrive in a non-violent environment.
“On behalf of UNICEF, I commit our team to doing all we can to support children and adolescents so that every child survives and thrives in an environment where non-violence, prosperity, and opportunity prevail,” said Flowers.
The statement came after she presented her credentials to Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain at his office in Dhaka on Wednesday. Flowers assumed her duties as the UNICEF Representative to Bangladesh on 5 August.
During her meeting, Flowers reaffirmed UNICEF’s strong commitment to advancing the rights of every child in Bangladesh. As UNICEF Representative, she provides strategic leadership to improve essential social services for children, focusing on child health, nutrition, water, and the protection of child rights.
She will also guide efforts to address challenges such as the climate crisis, juvenile justice, and the enhancement of skills training within the educational system to help young people secure better employment opportunities.
“This is a crucial time for Bangladesh. My heart is with the countless children, young people, and families affected by the recent violence, as well as those impacted by the cyclone and recent flooding,” Flowers stated.
“UNICEF’s work is underpinned by a passion for and commitment to children’s rights; our day-to-day work is driven by a belief in the dignity and potential of every child and young person.
Working hand in hand with the Government, private sector, long-time partners of UNICEF, and with children and adolescents, there is much to build on, and significant work still to be done,” she continued.
“I am inspired by the calls from the children and youth of Bangladesh for peace and to contribute to shaping a more prosperous future for all. We are listening,” she further expressed.
Under Flowers’ leadership, UNICEF will continue to support the Interim Government in mapping out and delivering both short- and long-term changes. This will include bridging urgent humanitarian support for those most affected by the cyclone and flooding with ongoing development efforts.
UNICEF will also maintain a focus on the stronger protection of, and respect for, the rights of children living in refugee camps, as part of its broader commitment to ensuring that every child matters.
Rana Flowers, a national of Australia, brings more than 35 years of experience in international development, child development, and policy advocacy. Her previous roles include serving as UNICEF Representative in Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Mongolia, and Belize.