Urban planning must protect open spaces. We often cite success stories from other countries. The real challenge is not to copy them but to adapt them to our own reality. Without strong institutions, even good policy stays on paper.

The young generation is this country's greatest strength. Guarantee them quality education, jobs and a safe space to speak, and there is every reason to be hopeful about the future.

Our debate on urban green space too often gets stuck in instant reactions. Getting to the root of the problem needs a long-term view — one that weighs data, experience and people's real lives together.

Over the past few decades Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in many areas. But the benefits have not reached everyone equally. Unless the gaps between city and village, better-off and poor are narrowed, development will not last.

The writer is Nafisa Tabassum, Columnist, Education & Society. Views expressed are the writer's own.