Governance for Climate Resilience (G4CR)

The Governance for Climate Resilience (G4CR) project, implemented in partnership with the Center for Natural Resources Studies (CNRS), has been a key initiative of the Centre for Climate Justice-Bangladesh (CCJ-B) to address pressing challenges in water governance in climate-vulnerable coastal areas, particularly Satkhira. With freshwater access increasingly threatened by salinity and disputes over canal (khal) management, the project focused on identifying gaps between policies and practices, supporting legal processes, and empowering local communities to take part in climate adaptation and governance. CCJ-B conducted an in-depth study through literature reviews, legal and policy analysis, community consultations, and stakeholder engagement. Nine Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and three Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were held in Satkhira to capture local perspectives. Training workshops were organized in Munshiganj Union, while a stakeholder consultation in Shyamnagar facilitated dialogue between government officials, civil society, and local representatives. Outputs of this phase included a Policy Analysis Report, a Policy Brief, and a Stakeholder Meeting Report, which together outlined key reforms needed in water governance. CCJ-B also provided legal advice and support for two ongoing lawsuits related to water disputes in the region. During the project, a new lawsuit emerged over illegal possession of an open canal, and CCJ-B provided legal assistance to contest the case, further strengthening its engagement with community rights.