Voices: "it was exciting to debate important issues"

Bangladesh

Syeda Sabrina Shahreen, a student in Bangladesh

"I had no idea about politics or political issues. I am staying at a student dormitory and there is limited access to news. I was really impressed by the Sanglap (dialogue). There was a great atmosphere, an excellent presenter and four interesting panel members.


It was exciting to be able to debate important issues with political leaders and key policy-makers

"There was a lot of audience participation and it was good to hear people ask the same questions that I wanted to ask. It gave me the courage to ask similar questions at subsequent Sanglaps.

"It was exciting to be able to debate important issues with political leaders and key policy-makers."

Audience mix

"Attending my first Sanglap really increased my interest in political issues, so I applied to attend three more.

"After listening to me talk about the Sanglaps, my friends also became interested. They attended a live session with their parents and watched the programmes on TV.

"The audience at the Sanglaps comprised a real mix of people. As well as political awareness, people learned about business and market prices through the Sanglaps."

Frustration

"Since taking part myself, I feel frustrated about the political situation in Bangladesh.

"We need the caretaker government to hand over power to an elected government following a free and fair election.

"We want democracy in our country. Through Bangladesh Sanglap I came to know about politics, such as the prime purpose of political parties and the pros and cons of the political leaders.

"As a student, I felt my participation in Bangladesh Sanglap was very significant."