Govt failures, culture of impunity fuelling ‘popular fascism’ in Bangladesh: Speakers

Government failures and a persistent culture of impunity have contributed to the rise of "Popular Fascism" in Bangladesh, deepening social divisions and exacerbating the country's economic challenges, speakers said at a discussion in Dhaka today (17 January).

The next elected government would prioritise reforms in education and healthcare, focus on marginalised communities, and operate with greater transparency and accountability to restore public trust, they also hoped it at a discussion titled "The Next Elected Government and Citizens' Expectations", organised by the Bangladesh Research Analysis and Information Network at the Bishowsahitto Kendro.

Economist Zia Hasan said that popular fascism, rooted in state failure and impunity, is pushing Bangladesh towards severe social fragmentation and economic decline.

"The way forward lies in truth and reconciliation, social unity, justice, and building a harmonious society, which can reopen pathways for foreign direct investment and sustainable development," he said.

Political analyst Zahed Ur Rahman said that the erosion of institutions during the tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has left the next government with the difficult task of rebuilding a strong but accountable state.

Dhaka University professor Samina Luthfa said the next government must rebuild public confidence by ending the culture of impunity and violence.

She emphasised reforms in education, protection of marginalised groups, workers and women, and safeguards for the informal sector and freelancers.

Calling for an end to repression and extortion, Writer Firoz Ahmed urged the government to ensure social welfare, strengthen education and healthcare, and protect the rights of workers, women, and vulnerable communities.

Economist Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir warned that misinformation, distorted narratives, and blocked state processes have left defeated forces resorting to violence and extortion.

The event was attended by Supreme Court lawyer Manzur-al-Matin, North South University faculty member Bulbul Siddiqi, writer and journalist Chinmoy Mutsuddi, State Reform Movement general secretary Syed Hasib Uddin Hossain, researcher Saeed Ferdous, and several academics and civil society members.