By Atikura Rahman Atik from Rajshahi
A new cultural initiative, Eco Theatre, has officially been launched to promote agroecology, food sovereignty, and climate justice through creative expression and community engagement.
The initiative was announced yesterday (6 July) at a meeting titled “Eco Theatre: Promoting Agroecology, Nature and Justice Through Culture,” organized by the Barind Youth Forum, Green Coalition, and BARCIK at a restaurant in Rajshahi.
Youth leaders, cultural activists, environmental campaigners, and members of the Barind Youth Forum from both rural and urban communities participated in the event. Participants discussed the vision, objectives, work plan, and future cultural activities of Eco Theatre.
Discussants of event said that growing environmental degradation, river encroachment and pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, the agricultural crisis, and inequalities in the food system require stronger public awareness and participation. They mentioned that theatre, music, folk performances, storytelling, and other creative arts are powerful tools for communicating the values of agroecology, environmental protection, food sovereignty, and climate justice to diverse audiences.
The meeting was chaired by Atikur Rahman Atik, President of the Barind Youth Forum, and moderated by General Secretary Poly Rani. Md. Shahidul Islam, researcher and anthropologist at BARCIK, introduced the concept of Eco Theatre and highlighted the role of culture in environmental and social movements. He stated that the climate and agricultural crises are not only environmental challenges but also social, cultural, and political issues. Therefore, cultural practice must become a key instrument for inspiring changes in people’s attitudes, values, and lifestyles. He described Eco Theatre as a creative platform for advancing this transformation.