Islamist Extremism in Bangladesh
The political landscape in Bangladesh is witnessing a significant shift towards religious fundamentalism following the overthrow of its authoritarian leader. This change is particularly pronounced as the country attempts to rebuild its democracy and navigate a new future for its 175 million citizens.
Recent Developments
- In a town, religious fundamentalists declared that young women could no longer play soccer.
- In another incident, the police were forced to release a man who harassed a woman for not covering her hair, followed by draping him in garlands of flowers.
- Demonstrators in Dhaka threatened to execute those who disrespect Islam if the government did not impose the death penalty.
- An outlawed group held a large march demanding an Islamic caliphate.
Constitutional Changes
Officials drafting a new Constitution are considering dropping secularism as a defining characteristic, replacing it with pluralism, and aligning more closely with religious lines.
Impact on Women and Minorities
- The fundamentalist shift is distressing for female students and activists who opposed the previous regime, hoping for democratic reforms.
- Women and religious minorities, including Hindus and small Islamic sects, are particularly vulnerable to this religious populism.
Challenges to the Interim Government
The interim government is criticized for not effectively countering extremist forces. The administration faces a balancing act of protecting free speech while managing extremist demands.
Regional Context
Bangladesh's situation mirrors a broader regional trend of rising religious extremism, with similar patterns observed in Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Myanmar.
Hope for the Future
- A former government minister expresses hope that Bangladesh's fundamental values of democracy and cultural diversity will prevail.
- The country's economy, with 37% of women in the formal labor force, serves as a potential counterforce to extremist ideologies.
Convergence of Extremist Forces
With the former prime minister out of power, there is a convergence of smaller extremist groups and mainstream Islamist parties towards a more conservative Bangladesh.
