The concept of democracy, celebrated for its promise of freedom, accountability, and active citizen participation, stands as one of the cornerstones of modern governance. Yet, the label of a “democracy” can, at times, serve as a deceptive facade for nations that fall short of upholding the very democratic values they profess. Among these countries, Bangladesh emerges as a particularly pertinent case study. Officially recognized as a parliamentary democracy with a population of 155 million citizens, Bangladesh is governed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed and the Awami League (AL) alliance, a 14-party coalition that holds a substantial majority in the parliament.
Thesis Statement
Despite its self-proclaimed status as a democracy, Bangladesh is burdened with a range of challenges that question the sincerity of its democratic values. These issues are not mere anomalies but rather systemic problems that demand scrutiny. This paper contends that human rights violations, rampant corruption, and increasing Chinese influence collectively undermine Bangladesh’s claim to democracy, necessitating a closer look at the nation’s political landscape.
Human Rights Violations
Bangladesh’s struggle with human rights violations is a grave concern that tarnishes its democratic image. According to Human Rights Watch (HRW), security forces have not only threatened victims’ families but have also forced them to sign false statements regarding the disappearance of their loved ones. This pattern of coercion extends beyond the immediate victims, creating an atmosphere of fear and censorship. Furthermore, the government has intensified its surveillance of human rights activists, leading to harassment and intimidation. In this hostile environment, human rights organizations find their activities hindered and their voices stifled. The United Nations has urged the government to cease these reprisals, emphasizing the importance of protecting human rights as a cornerstone of any democratic society. Adding to these concerns are reports from refugee camps, where authorities have closed community-led schools, arbitrarily destroyed shops, and imposed new obstacles to movement. Frequent curfews and harassment at checkpoints undermine the rights and dignity of residents in these camps. This systemic abuse of human rights is a glaring red flag that challenges Bangladesh’s democratic credentials.
Corruption
Corruption presents a formidable obstacle to Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations, and the nation’s approach to combating it is increasingly questioned. As the Georgetown Journal of International Affairs reports, the presence of illegal casinos and money laundering dens operated by both Bangladesh Army officers and ruling Awami League members in the capital city, Dhaka, exposes a deep-rooted issue. With an estimated worth of $120 million, these illicit operations underscore a lack of accountability at the highest echelons of power. While the government has established the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), concerns remain about the selectivity of its actions. Notably, the lack of pursuit of high-ranking members of the ruling party within anti-corruption efforts raises suspicions of political favoritism. This undermines the public’s faith in the democratic process and raises questions about the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption, further marring Bangladesh’s democratic image.
Chinese InfluenceÂ
A defining characteristic of any democratic nation is its ability to safeguard national sovereignty and protect its citizens’ interests. However, Bangladesh’s increasing tilt towards China has raised significant concerns about its ability to maintain its sovereignty and adhere to democratic principles. According to South Asian Voices (SAV), since 2014, Bangladesh has experienced growing authoritarianism, resulting in a deeper engagement with China. China has rapidly emerged as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner and a key investor in various projects, including transportation initiatives like the Padma Bridge Rail Link. While economic collaboration can be beneficial, the increasing Chinese influence in Bangladesh poses risks to its democratic institutions and decision-making processes. A nation’s sovereignty should not be compromised in exchange for economic gain. This shift in allegiance may compromise the democratic values that Bangladesh professes to uphold, undermining the nation’s democratic standing on the world stage.
ConclusionÂ
In summary, Bangladesh’s claim to democracy faces significant and multifaceted challenges. Human rights violations, unaddressed corruption at the highest levels, and growing Chinese influence collectively cast doubts on the nation’s democratic credentials. Evaluating the nation’s true commitment to democratic values is essential. To strengthen its democratic image, Bangladesh must address these issues comprehensively, focusing on human rights protection, accountable governance, and safeguarding national sovereignty while balancing economic interests. By doing so, Bangladesh can make strides towards becoming a more inclusive and accountable democracy that genuinely upholds the rights and freedoms of its citizens.