Building inclusive, climate resilient communities in Bangladesh

Stories | February 19, 2026

Highlights from DFAT Post’s visit

In January 2026, representatives from the Australian High Commission in Bangladesh (post staff) travelled to Dhobaura in Mymensingh to meet the people and community groups driving locally led, disability inclusive development through a CBM project supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).

The visit provided an important opportunity for post staff to see first-hand how community structures, livelihood initiatives, and strong partnerships are helping people with disabilities build resilience, increase their incomes, and participate more confidently in community life.

With less than 1% of people with disabilities in Bangladesh engaged in the workforce, and many facing discrimination, inaccessible services, and limited opportunities, the need for targeted disability-inclusive support remains high. This project is helping bridge those gaps by empowering Self-Help Groups (SHGs), strengthening local Organisations of People with Disabilities (OPDs), expanding livelihood opportunities, and advocating for accessible services.  

During the visit, post staff met with SHGs, Village Savings and Loan Groups (VSLGs), and individual entrepreneurs who are increasing their independence through training, loans, and peer support. Members explained how the groups meet monthly, maintain detailed registers, minutes, and tracking sheets, and use disaggregated data to inform decisions. Impressing the post staff, these practices demonstrate strong community ownership and accountability, helping people with disabilities build financial security and long-term resilience.  

Livelihood initiatives stood out as particularly transformative. Post staff saw tailoring shops, tea stalls, livestock ventures, and agricultural activities led by people with disabilities who, through project support, have gained the knowledge and confidence to run their own small businesses.

One entrepreneur who received training and low interest loans for their tailoring business described the impact:

“I had no idea about running a business before, but the training and support helped me learn step by step and grow my income.”

His business has since doubled its profits, enabling him to purchase another sewing machine and hire two more people with disabilities, expanding opportunities for others in his community.

Another participant shared his relief at having an accessible financial system that understands his circumstances:

“If I take a loan from a bank, they charge a very high interest. But here, I can repay with very less interest, and they understand our situation and give us extra time when needed.”

Post staff also noted the strong coordination between project partners, community groups, local government offices, and service providers. This coordination helps ensure services are accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities.  

Community groups are actively:

·       Engaging with local government and committees

·       Advocating for disability inclusive services

·       Helping members access government programs, training, disability cards, allowances, and health referrals.

Post staff commended CBM for their proactive coordination, strong safeguarding systems, and commitment to gender equality and disability inclusion, noting strong participation of OPDs and women in leadership roles.

Standing out from the visit was the trust the community places in CBM and its partners, and the sense of dignity and empowerment among participants.

As one member reflected:

“We used to feel ignored and had no platform to share our concerns. Now we are more vocal, aware of our rights, and even able to support other people with disabilities with doctor visits and hospital procedures.”

These changes highlight how strengthening local organisations can create long-lasting opportunities for participation, resilience, and empowerment.

CBM Australia is grateful for the ongoing engagement and support from the Australian High Commission. This partnership continues to play an essential role in advancing inclusive development in Bangladesh, ensuring that people with disabilities not only access the support they need today, but also play a central role in shaping inclusive and climate resilient communities for the future.

CBM Australia acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and thanks our implementing partner Centre for Disability in Development.

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