Bangladesh is a nation in South Asia that is sometimes referred to as the “bridge” between South and Southeast Asia. It is a land of lush vegetation and numerous waterways. Its people’s tenacity and resolve have been demonstrated by the country’s success and development. This article tries to emphasize Bangladesh’s accomplishments since its freedom, the current interest that major nations have shown in the country, the outstanding leadership of its Prime Minister, its foreign policy, and its aspirational goal for a Smart Bangladesh.
Achievements since Liberation
Bangladesh has advanced significantly in several areas since its freedom in 1971. The nation has continually surmounted obstacles to establish itself as a South Asian powerhouse. Due to its excellent economic results, Bangladesh is now frequently referred to as the “Bangladesh Surprise”. Bangladesh’s accomplishments have taken on a timelier dimension as a result of the United Nations’ declaration that it has moved from “least-developed country” to “developing country” status. Bangladesh has made incredible economic growth over the past 50 years, despite inheriting a war-torn, underdeveloped economy in 1971. Its GDP growth rate and per capita income have increased steadily and its 170 million people can produce almost all of the food they need.
Some of the achievements that Bangladesh has made since its liberation in 1971 are as following:
Economic expansion: Over the past 20 years, Bangladesh’s GDP has grown at an average pace of 6% per year, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. As a result, the per capita income has significantly increased since 1971, more than quadrupling.
Poverty Reduction: Bangladesh has made considerable advancements in decreasing poverty. In 1971, the poverty rate was 70%; in 2021, it was 20%. This is brought on by a variety of elements, such as microfinance, social safety net initiatives, and economic growth.
Education: Bangladesh has achieved significant advancements in this area. Between 1971 and 2021, the literacy rate improved from 25% to 72%. Additionally, there has been a noticeable rise in primary school attendance, and the gender achievement gap has shrunk.
Life Expectancy: Bangladesh has improved its health as well. From 47 years in 1971 to 72 years in 2021, the average lifespan has grown. The rates of maternal and infant mortality have also decreased.
Food Security: Bangladesh’s food production is now almost self-sufficient. The nation currently exports a significant amount of rice and other agricultural goods.
Women Empowerment: Bangladesh has achieved great advancements in the empowerment of women. Women today have wider access to school and jobs, and there are more women in parliament.
Climate Resilience: Bangladesh is one of the nations most susceptible to climate change, hence adapting to it is important. To compensate for the climate change, the government has built coastal barriers and planted mangrove forests, among other measures.
These are just some of the many achievements that Bangladesh has made since its liberation in 1971. The country has shown great resilience and determination in overcoming its challenges, and it is now emerging as a regional leader.
Attention from Power Nations
An important milestone that highlights Bangladesh’s rising stature in the international arena is the country’s invitation to the G20 Summit in 2023. The fact that Bangladesh is the only nation from South Asia and the region around India to be invited to the summit is evidence of the country’s diplomatic and economic success. There are several explanations behind Bangladesh’s invitation to the G20 Summit. First off, the nation has recently experienced rapid economic expansion. Bangladesh has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with a GDP growth rate of 6% annually on average during the previous ten years. A burgeoning middle class, a young and expanding population, and a hospitable investment environment have all contributed to this rise. Second, Bangladesh has made great strides toward eradicating poverty. In 2021, the poverty rate will have decreased from 43% in 2010 to 20%. This is brought on by a variety of elements, such as microfinance, social safety net initiatives, and economic growth. Third, Bangladesh has made significant improvements in both health and education. By 2021, the literacy rate will have risen from 43% in 2010 to 72%. Additionally, the average lifespan has grown from 67 years in 2010 to 72 years in 2021. Fourth, Bangladesh is a significant contributor in the fight against climate change. Despite being one of the most climate-vulnerable nations, the nation has made attempts to adapt to the changing climate, including installing mangrove forests and creating sea barriers. Fifth, Bangladesh is a trustworthy associate for global collaboration. The nation has been a steadfast advocate of multilateralism and has made contributions to a variety of international projects, including the UN peacekeeping force in South Sudan. Bangladesh’s invitation to the G20 Summit is a sign of both the nation’s commitment to tackling global concerns and its rising significance in the global economy. Additionally, it is evidence that Bangladesh is becoming a regional power. Bangladesh has also received invitations to other significant international gatherings, such as the World Economic Forum and the Shangri-La Dialogue, in addition to the G20 Summit. This indicates the rising awareness of Bangladesh’s global significance. Another hint that Bangladesh wants to have a bigger impact on the world arena is its desire to join the BRICS economic bloc. Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa make up the BRICS nations. They are all significant developing economies, and they have been cooperating to further their shared objectives. Bangladesh’s economy and international prestige would both benefit greatly from joining the BRICS.
Bangladesh has become a dominant force in the region and a responsible member of the international community under the charismatic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. It bases its foreign policy on the ideas of harmony, collaboration and advancement. A few examples are:
- When it comes to the Rohingya refugee problem, Bangladesh has been crucial. More than a million Rohingya refugees from Myanmar have resided in the nation, where they have been given shelter, food, and medical care.
- Bangladesh has been a vocal supporter of combating climate change. The nation has urged the international community to act quickly to solve the situation since it is one of the most susceptible nations to climate change.
- Bangladesh has been providing assistance to UN peacekeeping operations since 1988. The nation has dispatched soldiers to 40 nations so far including South Sudan, Liberia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo for peacekeeping operations.
- Bangladesh has offered humanitarian aid to nations devastated by calamities and armed conflicts. The nation has helped many nations impacted by earthquakes, floods, and warfare.
Bangladesh’s foreign policy has been praised by many countries. The United States has called Bangladesh a “reliable partner” and a “force for good in the world”. The European Union has said that Bangladesh is a “model for development”.
Smart Bangladesh Initiative
The Smart Bangladesh initiative is a long-term plan to transform Bangladesh into a technologically sophisticated and sustainable society. The initiative, Digital Bangladesh, which was introduced in 2009, is expanded upon by the project. The Digital Bangladesh initiative has made significant advancements in terms of expanding Bangladeshi residents’ access to information and communication technology (ICT).
The history of Bangladesh since its freedom is one of tenacity and advancement. It has admirable accomplishments and lofty goals. There is no question that Bangladesh will continue to shine as a marvel of the world with ongoing leadership and dedication to development goals.
