Bangladesh's Runa Khan honored with prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award

Runa Khan, a pioneering figure in disaster risk reduction and community development in Bangladesh, has been named a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award, Asia's most prestigious award for public service and achievement.

Khan is the founder and executive director of Practical Action, an organization that works across South Asia to help vulnerable communities prepare for and adapt to natural disasters, particularly in flood-prone and cyclone-affected regions. Her work has focused on empowering grassroots communities through practical solutions to disaster preparedness and climate adaptation.

The Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, established in 1957, annually honors individuals and organizations across Asia who demonstrate integrity, pragmatism, and independence in serving the public good. The award is considered among the region's most prestigious recognitions.

Khan's recognition reflects her sustained contributions to disaster management and humanitarian work in Bangladesh and across the South Asian region, where communities face increasing vulnerability to natural calamities and climate-related challenges.