Networks

GRAUS' Networks and Alliances

GRAUS has a strong network and actively engages with platforms at local, national, and international levels for effective linkages and interventions. Alliance and Partnering with IUCN, IIFB, VCF Networks, CAMPE, Child protection and Advocacy Network, National Peace and social cohesion network and YARN etc., GRAUS promotes environmental conservation, cultural heritage, quality education, basic human rights, gender equality, and youth empowerment across the CHT.

Membership since 2013

IUCN is a global organization dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, promoting biodiversity protection and environmental solutions worldwide

Since May 2013, GRAUS has been a member of IUCN, actively contributing to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Through this membership, GRAUS collaborates on environmental initiatives, supports community-based conservation, and shares local expertise in the CHT region.

GRAUS’s Role in Naming and Shaping the “Podong” Indigenous Peoples’ Initiative.

GRAUS played a historic and influential role in the naming and conceptualization of the “Podong” Indigenous Peoples’ Initiative under the IUCN framework. When IUCN invited its Indigenous Peoples’ Organization (IPO) members to propose a name and logo for a new initiative aimed at enhancing Indigenous visibility and engagement, GRAUS a long-standing IUCN member from the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh responded with a culturally meaningful proposal.

GRAUS proposed the name “Podong,” a term deeply rooted in the traditions of the Marma community and widely recognized across Indigenous communities in the CHT. In the Marma language, Podong means basket a symbol of abundance, sustainability, and the vital role of Indigenous women in preserving biodiversity and cultural heritage. More than a utilitarian object, the Podong embodies collective identity, traditional knowledge, and the interconnectedness of community and nature. It reflects everyday life and ceremonial customs, emphasizing the Indigenous way of living in harmony with the environment.

The selection of the name followed a consultative process led by the IUCN Secretariat in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples’ representatives. After reviewing submissions from various IPO members, Podong was chosen for its profound representation of Indigenous values, solidarity, and cultural resilience across regions. GRAUS’s proposal not only shaped the visual and symbolic identity of the initiative but also made a lasting contribution to the recognition, representation, and empowerment of Indigenous communities within the IUCN.

CHT indigenous men and women, carrying traditional bamboo baskets ( PODONG ), work together in the paddy field reflecting their shared cultural heritage, community spirit, and deep connection to the land.

While the International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB) operates as a separate but allied platform working with the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Podong Initiative within IUCN complements IIFB’s mission by strengthening Indigenous participation in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and global policy-making through IUCN’s inclusive platform.

By embracing “Podong” as a symbol, Indigenous communities particularly in the CHT have elevated their traditional knowledge, governance systems, and nature-based solutions to the global stage. GRAUS’s leadership and cultural insight were instrumental in shaping this powerful and unifying identity, contributing meaningfully to the global recognition of Indigenous peoples’ roles in conservation and sustainability.

GRAUS at PODONG Official Launch

GRAUS’s participation in the official launch of the PODONG Indigenous Peoples Initiative in Arusha, Tanzania, highlights its commitment to promoting indigenous rights and community resilience. The image captures a diverse group gathered under a thatched-roof structure, celebrating the event alongside representatives from IUCN, IUCN OPS, and Canada.

The presence of GRAUS at PODONG reflects its dedication to inclusivity, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable development-values that align with its mission. By engaging in this initiative, GRAUS reinforces its role in advocating for indigenous communities and ensuring their voices are represented in global conversations on rights and development.

Since August 2023

The International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB) is a global platform that advocates for the rights, knowledge, and participation of Indigenous Peoples in biodiversity policy and conservation within the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Since August 2023, GRAUS has been a member of the International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB), strengthening its commitment to indigenous rights and biodiversity conservation. This membership enhances advocacy, knowledge-sharing, and policy influence on global environmental issues

Since 2007

Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE) is a leading education advocacy network in Bangladesh, working to promote inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all through policy advocacy, research, and collaboration.

GRAUS has been an active network member of the Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE) since 2007. Through this alliance, GRAUS contributes to advancing inclusive, quality education and lifelong learning, advocating for education rights, and strengthening policy dialogue at local and national levels.

More of GRAUS' Networks and Alliances

VCF Networks are grassroots organizations formed by local communities to address various issues, including environmental conservation and sustainable development. It empowers women and youth through leadership and entrepreneurship training, sustainable agriculture, and active involvement in reforestation and community decision-making.

The Youth and Adolescents Rights Network (YARN) is an active alliance promoting youth-led environmental activism and advocacy. It engages young people in climate action and clean-up drives while empowering them through training in public speaking, advocacy, and digital literacy to become informed and active community leaders.

Since 2024, GRAUS has been a proud member of the National Peace and social cohesion Network, led by UNDP. Through this alliance, GRAUS contributes to promoting peace, tolerance, and inclusive dialogue, working to strengthen social cohesion and build resilient, conflict-sensitive communities across the region.

Since January 2025, GRAUS has been an active member of the Child Protection and Advocacy Network, led by World Vision. Through this alliance, GRAUS works to safeguard children’s rights, prevent abuse and exploitation, and advocate for child-friendly policies to ensure safe and supportive environments for all children.