SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The pandemic meant the celebrations of Bangladesh's 50th year of independence in 2021 were more subdued than hoped. This Viewpoint article reflects on the messages and the silences emerging from the international articles and online conferences marking the anniversary. Bangladesh's long experience on the frontlines of untrammeled globalization and climate change means it now has lessons, both good and bad, for the rest of the world. Compared to contemporary India or Pakistan, Bangladesh has made great progress, and international articles focused heavily on its economic development and social indicators. There was little, if any, attention to any other aspects of the nation (culture, history, politics), reflecting Bangladesh's continued status as the world's ‘Aid Lab'. Scholars and observers noted that the sounds of economic success often drown out discussion of the problems, including not least inequality, social injustice, and the recurrent problem of violence against religious minorities. The article concludes that the clearest sign of Bangladesh's success is in how seriously it takes the issue of women’s rights. Discussions about Bangladesh at 50 highlighted how much its success owes to the hard labour, ingenuity and resourcefulness of its women, a matter both worthy of celebration and a lesson for the world.