From Laksam to the United Nations Headquarters: Journalist Rafiqul Islam Shanto Reporting on the 79th General Assembly

Renowned journalist Rafiqul Islam Shanto is currently in the United States to cover the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Attending the world’s largest international forum, the UN, Shanto is observing how global leaders are contributing to Bangladesh’s causes. He is also advocating for Bangladesh, one of the most climate-vulnerable nations, by participating in media discussions and raising critical questions on behalf of his country. Shanto departed from Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport early in the morning on September 20, 2024, and arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York via Hong Kong.As the editor-in-chief and publisher of the Dainik Tarun Kantho newspaper, Shanto will be covering the proceedings of the UN General Assembly from September 20 to 30, 2024. During this global summit, world leaders and high-ranking representatives from member states will discuss key issues such as world peace, human rights protection, counterterrorism, money laundering prevention, food security, environmental sustainability, and climate change mitigation. With climate change being a major topic of concern, Shanto aims to highlight Bangladesh’s vulnerability as one of the most affected countries by global climate shifts.

In addition to his journalistic responsibilities, Rafiqul Islam Shanto has traveled to several countries, including China, Singapore, the UAE, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Nepal, Bhutan, Cambodia, Saudi Arabia, Laos, and Vietnam for both personal and professional purposes.

According to sources, Shanto is a permanent resident of the village of Uttarkul in Ward 9 of Laksam Municipality in Comilla district. During his stay in New York, he will be gathering news and insights on Bangladesh and other international matters, which he will share across national and international media outlets. He has requested prayers from everyone for his success in fulfilling his professional duties responsibly.

The impact of this UN session on global politics, economics, climate change, and human rights is being widely covered by media outlets worldwide, and Shanto’s reporting will play a significant role in bringing Bangladesh’s perspectives to the forefront.