Nine climate activists from Bangladesh attended the Global Power Shift (GPS) which is a mass movement buildup program against the fossil fuel industries and climate crisis organized by 350.org, Greenpeace, TEMA foundation, Istanbul Technical University and a series of international organizations. The meet was held in Istanbul, Turkey from 24th to 30th June 2013 where 500 youth from 133 different countries has participated to create a strong network and share the stories of each other.
Global Power Shift (GPS) is a multi phased movement. The 1st phase is a very successful event where the youth climate leaders gathered together in Istanbul and went through five days very interactive capacity buildup sessions. These five days training was more focused on five tracks: Climate policy, Non Violent Direct Action, Media and Communication, Creative campaign and Digital Campaign. Also the selected youth leaders came up with various projects and ideas which they planned to implement in their locality as the continuation of 2nd Phase to meet the climate crisis.
As the plan for the 2nd Phase of GPS, Bangladesh team has planned to launch a movement against the proposed 1320 mw coal power plant which is only 14 km away from Sundarbans (the largest mangrove forest). This power plant might have very significant impact on the diversified mangrove forest which might destroy the forest as well. It is mentionable that, the forest has been recognized as the World’s Heritage Site by UNISCO.
Last day of the meet, we ended up with a procession in solidarity with all the participants from all over the world with local Turkish people. Again, the wave of the colorful banners and strong slogans has proven the strength, unity and dedication of youths. It’s time to take action, time for positive changes!!

The best part is, I met my friends Arturo and Alexandra those who are from the World Youth Parliament for Water.`

Sajid Iqbal, Founder of Change

Find more info on: http://globalpowershift.org/