This special report deliberates on the challenges, opportunities, and priorities that will define Bangladesh’s governance in the next five years. It brings together six analysts from India and Bangladesh who examine crucial areas for Prime Minister Hasina’s administration: domestic politics; economic strategies; neighbourhood ties; engagement with global powers; defence initiatives; and climate change. The chapters outline key challenges in these domains and highlight priorities for the new government.
In the first essay, Khondaker Golam Moazzem notes how, in the last 15 years, under the Awami league regime, Bangladesh has recorded a largely positive macroeconomic performance. Bangladesh has experienced impressive economic growth, driven by the ready-made garments industry, even as it has faced challenges such as high inflation and a decline in remittances. These challenges, compounded by other political and social concerns, have created an uncertain macroeconomic scenario that has kept investors at bay. Prompt and time-bound reforms in line with electoral promises are necessary to ensure the country’s economic growth, especially vis-à-vis its target of attaining upper-middle-income status by 2031.
Author: Khondaker Golam Moazzem
Publication Period: May 2024