Sheikh Hasina’s government ruled Bangladesh for over 15 years, erasing the line between the government and the ruling party. Unfair elections in 2014, 2018, and 2024 led to the ruling party winning through fraud and disenfranchisement. This lack of democracy led to decreased accountability in institutions, resulting in financial scams, money laundering, and crony capitalism. […]
Questions being raised about govt data after errors found in export numbers: Jyoti Rahman
Director of International Affairs at the Sydney Policy Analysis Center, Jyoti Rahman, commented that people are raising questions about the government’s data after errors in export numbers were recently found. “Enough questions are being raised by the people regarding information about the government of Bangladesh. It is natural to ask such questions because the country’s […]
Bangladesh Budget Review 2024
On 6 June, Mr Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali became the third finance minister since 2009 to present the budget. The budget was presented when Bangladesh had been facing significant stress due to external and internal factors. These factors have led to macroeconomic instability, depleted foreign exchange reserves, inflation, and challenges in managing external debt. The […]
SPAC-ADN Briefing Paper 2: Democracy in Bangladesh-Sustainable growth, development and democracy
Bangladesh’s economy has faced significant challenges since 2020, including a sharp decline in foreign exchange reserves, import restrictions, high inflation, and dependency on remittances. The country’s economy is heavily reliant on the ready-made garments sector, and there is a lack of diversification in exports and foreign direct investments. Economic inequality is increasing, with concerns about […]
Quarterly Update on the Major Economic Trends in Bangladesh: May 2024
Bangladesh’s economy has faced significant challenges in the early months of 2024. Economic growth has decelerated, particularly in the export sector, while inflation has remained high. Policy adjustments are being made to address inflation and stabilise the external sector, but careful consideration is required to prevent a potential sharp downturn later in 2024. The country’s […]
SPAC-ADN Briefing Paper 1: Quality of democracy, human rights & future directions
On January 7, 2024, Bangladesh had its 12th national parliamentary election. The election was boycotted by the main opposition party, BNP, and its alliance partners, giving the ruling alliance, led by Awami League (AL), a walkover. Awami League’s official nominees won in 224 constituencies, while independent candidates, backed by factions of the local Awami League, […]
Joint Statement: Australian Civil Society Statement in Solidarity with Gaza
This joint statement, led by Amnesty International Australia, is seeking organisational signatories and was presented in Canberra in late October 2023. Signatories are still invited. We, the undersigned, express our alarm about the unfolding crisis in Gaza. Australia, and the whole international community, must immediately call for a ceasefire and for an end to the […]
