POLITICAL SYSTEM
Bangladesh is a parliamentary democracy that conducts regular elections. However, there have been concerns about backsliding toward a one-party, hybrid regime with elements of both authoritarianism and democracy. Despite challenges, Bangladesh has maintained democratic institutions for a majority of its existence since gaining independence in 1971.
ECONOMY
The economy of Bangladesh is a major developing market economy. It ranks as the second-largest economy in South Asia in nominal terms and the 25th largest by purchasing power parity. Here are some key points:
GDP: In 2024, Bangladesh’s nominal GDP is approximately $455 billion, while its GDP based on purchasing power parity (PPP) is around $1.619 trillion.
GDP Growth: The economy has been growing at an average annual rate of about 6.0% (2023) and is projected to continue expanding at 5.7% (2024) and 6.6% (2025).
Per Capita Income: The nominal GDP per capita stands at $2,646 (2024), while the PPP-adjusted figure is $9,416.
Sector Composition: The economy is driven by the services sector (53.40%), followed by industry (33.90%) and agriculture (12.91%).
Exports: Key export items include textiles, pharmaceutical products, electronics, shipbuilding, and jute goods. Major export partners include Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Imports: Bangladesh imports liquefied natural gas, crude oil, machinery, chemicals, and cotton. China and India are significant import partners.
Labor Force: The labor force comprises 65 million people, with 40.6% engaged in agriculture, 20.4% in industry, and 39.6% in services.
Poverty: The poverty rate declined from 11.8% in 2010 to 5.0% in 2022, based on the international poverty line of $2.15 a day (using 2017 Purchasing Power Parity exchange rate).
Overall, Bangladesh’s economy has made significant strides, but challenges remain, including inflation and poverty reduction efforts12.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RECENT PROTEST
There are ongoing protests in Bangladesh, which have escalated into a wider antigovernment movement across the country. Here are the key points:
Trigger: The protests began in July when students demanded an end to a quota system for government jobs. This system reserved 30% of government jobs for the families of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s war of independence against Pakistan in 1971.
Escalation: Unfortunately, the initial peaceful protests turned violent, resulting in over 200 deaths. The situation became volatile as demonstrators demanded Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.
Current Protests: Recently, tens of thousands of protesters returned to the streets, asking Prime Minister Hasina to step down. Police responded with tear gas and stun grenades, leading to more than 20 deaths and dozens of injuries. The protests have spread across various districts in Bangladesh.
Calls for Non-Cooperation: Protesters are urging “non-cooperation,” asking people not to pay taxes, utility bills, or show up for work on Sundays. Offices, banks, and factories have opened, but commuters face challenges getting to work.
Recent Clashes: In Dhaka, protesters attacked a major public hospital and blocked highways. Clashes occurred between ruling party activists and protesters backed by the opposition party in several districts.
In summary, the protests continue as citizens demand accountability and change from the government. The situation remains tense, and the call for Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation persists.
RECENT NEWS
The summary ais prepared by COPILOT. For details and accuracy, please explore relevant topics below or over representative websites.
REFERENCE
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_Bangladesh
2. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bangladesh/
3. https://www.focus-economics.com/countries/bangladesh/
4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_Bangladesh
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democracy_in_Bangladesh
6. https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF10214
7. https://www.idea.int/democracytracker/country/bangladesh
8. https://freedomhouse.org/country/bangladesh/freedom-world/2021
9. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/8/4/more-than-20-killed-as-bangladesh-protesters-renew-call-for-hasina-to-quit
10. https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3273147/bangladesh-protests-demand-hasina-resign-army-stands-people
11. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/violence-in-bangladesh-leaves-8-people-dead-hundreds-injured-as-protests-continue/ar-AA1octQ8
12. https://www.yahoo.com/news/violent-protests-bangladesh-leave-more-115339871.html
13. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/protests-and-violence-break-out-again-in-bangladesh-amid-calls-for-the-governments-resignation/ar-AA1oaKaw
