Subject: Clarification Regarding Application Status for Summer School on EU Law and Policy Dear Nicole Bosmans, I hope this email finds you well. Thank you for acknowledging my application for the Summer School on European Union Law and Policy on Immigration and Asylum. I appreciate the opportunity to provide clarification regarding my chosen status as "Other Status" in the application form. As a refugee from Bangladesh currently residing in France, I opted for this category to accurately reflect my unique circumstances. While I do not fall directly under the traditional categories listed in the application form, I believe that my background and experiences offer a valuable perspective on immigration and asylum issues, particularly within the context of EU law and policy. Considering my circumstances as a citizen of a developing country and a refugee living in France, I am respectfully requesting your assistance in securing a full scholarship to cover all expenses related to attending the summer school. This would include travel, accommodation, meals, and any other incidental costs associated with participation. I am eager to engage in discussions, learn from esteemed experts, and contribute to the dialogue on these critical topics during the summer school. Please let me know if any further information or documentation is required to support my application. Thank you once again for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to participate in the summer school. Sincerely yours, M. Shahanur Islam

 In a significant move towards advancing SOGIE rights in Bangladesh, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBD) Founder President, Advocate Shahanur Islam, engaged in a fruitful dialogue with France's Ambassador for LGBT, Jean Marc Berthon, on April 2, 2024, at the ambassador's office.

Advocate Shahanur initiated the dialogue by shedding light on the current state of sexual minority rights in Bangladesh, particularly addressing prevalent misinformation campaigns targeting transgender individuals. One focal point of discussion was the concerning issue of transgender inclusion in school textbooks in Bangladesh, highlighting the urgent need for accurate representation and education on transgender issues.

The meeting also delved into prospective collaborative efforts aimed at improving the psychological well-being and legal empowerment of individuals within the SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression) spectrum in Bangladesh. Both parties emphasized the importance of launching projects that would provide vital support and resources to marginalized communities, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Advocate Shahanur's active involvement and advocacy signify a pivotal step towards addressing the challenges faced by the SOGIE  community in Bangladesh. The dialogue with Ambassador Jean Marc Berthon underscores the growing recognition and support for SOGIE rights on an international scale, signaling hope for meaningful progress and change in the realm of human rights and social justice.