The Center for Science, Technology Policy & Diplomacy (CSTPD) continued its series of high-level diplomatic and policy engagements through a strategic meeting with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) in Bangladesh.
The discussion took place with Dr. Felix Gerdes, Resident Representative of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Bangladesh, a German political foundation linked to social democracy. Established globally in 1925 and active in Bangladesh since 2013, FES focuses on labor rights, the future of work, economic transformation, and geopolitics through collaborations with government bodies, trade unions, academia, and media institutions.The CSTPD delegation included its Founder Scientist Dr. Md Khan Sobayel Bin Rafiq and Tanvir Kabir, Founding Advisor of CSTPD. The meeting centered on advancing shared priorities in science diplomacy, policy innovation, and youth engagement.
Key discussions highlighted how science diplomacy can serve as a bridge between policy and innovation, particularly in addressing global challenges such as economic transition, workforce development, and inclusive governance. Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening opportunities for students and young professionals from Bangladesh to engage in international dialogue, research collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives.Cultural diplomacy and knowledge exchange were also key themes, with a focus on empowering the next generation to actively participate in shaping global policy narratives.The engagement reflects CSTPD’s growing commitment to connecting science, policy, and diplomacy. By collaborating with institutions like FES, CSTPD aims to foster meaningful partnerships that empower youth, strengthen democratic dialogue, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable global future.
