Over 400 runners unite to promote peace and peaceful coexistence with dignity
COX’S BAZAR, October 31, 2026: More than 400 people of different ages, including students, young professionals and members of youth networks, took part in the Run4Peace solidarity run at Cox’s Bazar beach today (Saturday), promoting social cohesion, peace and peaceful coexistence with dignity.
The 7.5-kilometre run was organised by Embolden Bangladesh in association with ActionAid Bangladesh, the Society for Health Extension and Development (SHED) and the Cox’s Bazar District Administration.
The run started at 6:00 am from Laboni Beach Point. Following the designated route, participants ran through Holiday Mor, Gungachh Tala and Notun Bridge before returning to Laboni Beach Point. The event took on a festive atmosphere, bringing together first-time recreational runners and experienced athletes. Close coordination with local stakeholders helped ensure the safety and smooth management of the event.
Organisers said the youth-led initiative aimed to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation among people from diverse backgrounds. Sport was chosen as a shared platform to build relationships, foster mutual trust and bridge social divisions.
An award ceremony was held at 7:30 am at Laboni Beach Point following the run. The top three finishers in both the male and female categories received cash prizes and certificates of recognition. In the female category, Bipasha Anwar, Nusrat Jahan and Violi Tugade Hossain secured first, second and third places respectively. In the male category, Ashraful Alam, Alex Parvez Palash and Zakir Hossen finished first, second and third respectively. The top 10 runners in each category were also recognised and awarded.
Mohammad Shamsud-Douza, Joint Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Appreciating the initiative for spreading the message of peace, he encouraged the organisers to arrange dedicated running events or marathons for women and children. He also called on everyone to promote harmony, peace and peaceful coexistence with dignity.
Md. Abdul Alim, Head of Humanitarian Programme at ActionAid Bangladesh, expressed hope that the spirit of Run4Peace would inspire positive change across society. Md. Nazmul Ahsan, Lead of the Youth, Resilience and Climate Justice team at ActionAid Bangladesh, emphasised the importance of empowering young people through the engagement of all stakeholders to strengthen peace and social cohesion.
Other distinguished guests included Md. Rafiqul Islam FCA, Head of Finance and Administration at ActionAid Bangladesh; Abdul Mannan, Deputy Director of SHED; and Inzamamul Haque, Founder and President of Embolden Bangladesh, alongside other representatives and local stakeholders.
