The “Enhancing Local Capacities in Socially Inclusive Resilience in Asia (SIRA) Project,” supported by Canada’s IDRC and the UK’s FCDO, is paving way for or more inclusive, climate-resilient urban development in Asia by incorporating voices from all community sectors, particularly those of underrepresented groups in resilience planning process. Aiming to strengthen the capacity of local governments and empower climate practitioners to undertake climate resilient actions, the project is actively working in Bangladesh, Nepal, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

The Project was officially launched in Bangladesh on 27 October 2024. The launch event convened 27 stakeholders, including international experts and local leaders, fostering an exchange of innovative ideas to address climate challenges. Discussions spanned from community-based initiatives to the creation of a centralized climate platform to streamline local adaptation efforts.

In order to determine the needs for capacity-building, recent Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) have collected insightful information from towns of Sirajganj, Kushtia, and organisations like ICCCAD in Bangladesh. In Nepal, a virtual KII included discussions with the Climate Change Management Division, Ministry of Forest and Environment, alongside various organizations like ENPHO, Forest Action Nepal, and the Center for Water Resources Study (CWRS).

These insights will inform the upcoming Country Needs Assessment report, guiding strategies to empower local stakeholders for a more resilient future.

Through SIRA, ICLEI South Asia is committed to building resilient, inclusive communities equipped to confront the impacts of climate change. Join us in shaping a sustainable future!