Views Bangladesh Logo
author image

Rayhan Ahmed Tapader

Researcher and Columnist 

How significant is the UN secretary-general’s visit?
UN secretary-general
Diplomacy

How significant is the UN secretary-general’s visit?

The visit of the UN Secretary-General to Bangladesh commenced on March 14 with a meeting with the head of the interim government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus. During the meeting, the Chief Adviser briefed the UN Secretary-General on Bangladesh’s political situation, various reform initiatives undertaken by his government, the country’s economic status, the Rohingya issue, Bangladesh’s role in global peacekeeping, regional politics, and more. He also discussed the possible timing of the national elections, explaining that their timing—whether this year or the next—would depend on the implementation of ongoing reforms. The Chief Adviser reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring free, fair, and participatory elections.

Where is the global geopolitical tension heading ?
global geopolitical tension
Diplomacy

Where is the global geopolitical tension heading ?

The global order has been in disarray for some time. With Western hegemony already eroding and multilateral institutions increasingly under strain, global power is shifting in many directions. The role of centrist powers in shaping geopolitics will increase as the global balance of power shifts. One of the biggest questions for this year is whether the second term of newly elected President Donald Trump will usher in a more turbulent era in global affairs. Some of his policies threaten to be even more disastrous for an already chaotic world. How the United States deals with its allies, adversaries, and competitors under Trump will be one of the most important indicators of geopolitical developments. The future course of U.S.-China relations is the most important strategic aspect of the coming year. Trump’s unpredictable and volatile personality will either lead to increased tensions in U.S.-China relations or lead to major deals being made by Trump.

No more arrogance of power by ignoring democracy!
ignoring democracy
State and Politics

No more arrogance of power by ignoring democracy!

Throughout history, those who take on a role of resistance become heroes—especially during periods of political transition. When the oppressed, who had long accepted subjugation, finally rise, the ruling forces feel threatened. In the rulers’ lexicon, such moments of upheaval are labeled as revolution, rebellion, anarchy, breach of peace, or disorder. However, regardless of the terminology, these situations reflect the rulers' discomfort and fear. They lament that laws are being broken—laws that are supposedly necessary for societal cohesion. From their perspective, they are not wrong; governance cannot function without law. But for the oppressed, it is equally difficult to accept unjust laws. Accepting them would mean an insult to their very humanity.

Shadow of darkness behind America's democracy in Trump era
Shadow of darkness behind America's democracy in Trump era
Diplomacy

Shadow of darkness behind America's democracy in Trump era

Trump came to power in 2016 primarily by taking control of America’s information landscape. His journey in politics has been marked by controversy, with his actions always seeming to run parallel to the divisive nature of his rhetoric. From hate speech to crude attacks on opposing politicians, he has consistently used derogatory language. On January 6, 2021, thousands of Trump supporters stormed the senate office at Capitol Hill. Instead of regret, Trump later remarked during a campaign rally that he should not have left the House on that day, despite losing the 2020 presidential election. Now, this very Trump is back in the American throne. Ironically, it is the citizens of the nation that often claims to uphold the most democracy in the world who have brought him back to power, dressed as a king.

Lack of consensus may derail reform efforts
Lack of consensus may derail reform efforts
State and Politics

Lack of consensus may derail reform efforts

The interim government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus as the Chief Adviser, took office during a crisis moment. However, it received strong support from students, the general public, and major political parties. The expectations from this government were high, which made fulfilling them inherently challenging. Although some inefficiency and weakness were evident in the administration, the primary reason the interim government was unable to meet these expectations was the widespread corruption, mismanagement, and the tendency of the previous government to cripple key state institutions

Living without language limits work diversity
Living without language limits work diversity
Book Fair

Living without language limits work diversity

The foundation of Bengali civilization was laid on the self-sacrifice of the martyrs of the 21st of February. Language is what makes a person human—this is a harsh truth. When humans did not have language, there was no distinction between humans and animals. The development of a person's individual life, social life, state life, and national life happens through language. Language is the tool for human survival. The rulers tried to take away this tool, but the language martyrs stood firm. To be truly human, one needs a mother tongue, their own literature, and culture. Patriotism is a kind of emotional attachment to one’s homeland. In simple terms, patriotism means loving one’s birthplace from the depths of one’s heart.