Digital Dialogue and Social Cohesion Among Youth in Cox’s Bazar

The mid-term progress sharing meeting for the ‘Digital Space for Dialogue’ project, implemented by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) in collaboration with the European Union and DW Akademie, was held successfully. Organised on August 23 and 25, 2026, at Rohingya Refugee Camp-4 and the Ukhiya Upazila Auditorium respectively, the sessions were chaired by Camp In-Charge (CiC) Al Imran and attended by Ukhiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Panna Akter as the chief guest. High-ranking government officials, representatives from UN agencies, local and international NGOs, local leaders, and youth actively participated in the event.

The primary objective of the project is to promote constructive dialogue, social cohesion, and sustainable peace among the local and Rohingya youth in Ukhiya and Teknaf through the positive use of digital platforms.

Focus Area Direct Output Achieved Social and Behavioural Outcome
Disinformation Monitoring Monitored social media misinformation and hate speech through data collection involving 184 participants. Rapid identification of online rumours has helped reduce potential tensions and conflicts between communities.

 

Youth Content Creation Produced short films and music videos through joint participation of local and Rohingya youth. Reduced social distance between the two communities while fostering mutual empathy and understanding.

 

Women’s Awareness Developed a 3-month action plan involving 15 young women for courtyard sessions, street plays, and social campaigns. Enhanced cyber security and digital safety awareness among marginalised women and adolescent girls.

 

Positive Use of Technology Initiated digital broadcasting of awareness campaigns through documentaries and social media. Effectively transformed digital platforms into tools for promoting social cohesion rather than misuse.

 

 

Future Plans

In the upcoming phases (Years 2 and 3), the project will scale up the dissemination of digital content such as e-books and success stories. Additionally, hands-on training on cyber safety and fact-checking will be expanded for youth and women to ensure long-term peace and harmony across marginalised communities.