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the struggles of those who are “held back” instead of labelling them as “left behind”.

Presenting the keynote paper, Banasree Mitra Neogi, director of Rights and Governance Programmes at MJF, said human rights are not distant legal concepts but are rooted in dignity, safety, and equality in everyday life.

She said development and digital progress cannot be sustainable without justice and equal rights. “Human rights are universal, regardless of birth, religion, gender, or social identity.”

She emphasised speaking against injustice and amplifying marginalised voices, especially amid global crises, rising inequality, and climate-related vulnerabilities.

Freedom fighter and rights activist Sultana Kamal said ensuring freedom of expression does not require new policies but requires the state to fulfil its responsibilities.

She called for a future government that prioritises protecting civil liberties over retaining power. She added that people’s rights to be heard, understood, and informed are being gravely violated.

Sultana Kamal stressed the need to protect freedom of thought. “What I believe is my personal choice, and others may believe differently -- that is tolerance. Our society fails to teach this, leaving children at risk,” she said.

Speaking as the chief guest, Md Daud Miah, director general of the NGO Affairs Bureau under the Chief Adviser’s Office, said, “Sympathy alone is not enough. We must develop empathy.”

He urged development organisations to work closely with communities “as members, not just beneficiaries,” adding that empowering people to make their own decisions is key to sustainable progress.

Representatives from youth groups, development partners, civil society, journalists, and marginalised communities -- including persons with disabilities, indigenous groups, Dalits, and the Hijra community -- called on the state to ensure proper application of the law, guarantee justice, and establish accountability.

They also called for renewed efforts to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and equality within families, communities, and society as a whole.

The event also included a musical performance by the country’s first all-female indigenous band, F Minor.