By Dr. Md. Shahid Uz Zaman, Founder Executive Director, Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO), Bangladesh
Greetings from Bangladesh. It is with great appreciation that I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the 225th issue of Southasiadisasters.net and its two decades of uninterrupted publication. This milestone is a remarkable testimony to the publication’s credibility, inclusiveness, and commitment to advancing disaster and climate resilience across South Asia and beyond.
From my perspective at the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO), Southasiadisasters.net has been an invaluable resource. Its accessible, practice-oriented articles have helped bridge the gap between field-level realities and policy discourse. For example, ESDO’s work on climate change adaptation, food security, and youth resilience has frequently drawn upon insights shared in the publication. The comparative experiences from different countries have broadened our understanding and inspired localised solutions in rural and marginalised areas of Bangladesh.
What makes Southasiadisasters.net unique is its consistent effort to amplify the voices of communities most affected by disasters. By presenting grassroots perspectives alongside academic and policy insights, the publication ensures that strategies for resilience remain grounded in lived realities. This has been particularly useful in our advocacy with government bodies and development partners, where evidence and narratives from the publication have strengthened our case for inclusive, dignity-centred development.
Looking ahead, I see even greater value in Southasiadisasters.net expanding its digital accessibility—through interactive formats, podcasts, and more visual content—to engage younger readers and practitioners. Furthermore, deepening its coverage on emerging issues such as climate-induced migration, green jobs, and digital risk governance could make it even more relevant in shaping future resilience pathways.
In summary, Southasiadisasters.net is more than just a publication; it is a platform for solidarity, knowledge exchange, and inspiration. I thank AIDMI for sustaining this initiative with such dedication and vision. May the publication continue to flourish and guide us in building a safer and more resilient South Asia.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this piece are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of AIDMI.