Predicting Bangladesh’s economic future through Selim Jahan’s books
Unlike typical academic texts filled with complex theories, these latest books are written in a simple, accessible manner, making economics approachable for everyone and shedding light on Bangladesh’s current economic state
We are going through a time when news reports are filled with concerns about inflation, dwindling foreign reserves, and policy debates. Conversations at dinner tables and tea stalls echo the same worries.
At this critical juncture, two new books by Dr Selim Jahan, 'Bangladesh: Contemporary Development Issues' and 'Bangladesher Orthoniti: Bortoman O Bhobishyot (The Economy of Bangladesh: Present and Future)', offer a clearer perspective on where the country stands and what lies ahead.
These books were unveiled at a programme organised by Banglar Pathshala at the RC Majumdar Arts Auditorium, Dhaka University, on 20 February 2025.
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Unlike typical academic texts filled with complex theories, these books are written in a simple, accessible manner, making economics approachable for everyone and shedding light on Bangladesh's current economic state.
The event was more than just a book launch — it was a gathering of some of the country's most renowned economists and intellectuals. Chaired by The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, the discussion featured Professor Dr Rehman Sobhan, Chairman of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), as the chief guest, shedding light on Bangladesh's current economic crossroads.
Special guest Professor Dr Rounaq Jahan, Honorary Fellow at CPD, along with distinguished speakers such as Professor Dr Masuda Yasmeen, Professor Dr Selim Raihan, Professor Dr Robaet Ferdous, and journalists Shawkat Hossain and Pratik Bardhan, contributed to a thought-provoking conversation on the country's economic trajectory.
The author, Dr Selim Jahan, a former director of the Human Development Report Office (HDRO), shared that he wrote these books drawing from his deep expertise in development and policy.
The first book, Bangladesh: Contemporary Development Issues, breaks down the nation's current economic challenges and explores possible solutions.
It goes beyond typical economic discussions by addressing governance issues, the middle-income trap, climate change, and poverty alleviation. What stands out is its emphasis on human development — education, healthcare and social welfare — as fundamental to economic progress.
The book challenges the notion that GDP growth alone signifies development and urges readers to consider how economic policies impact people's lives.
One of its key strengths is its focus on gender equality and women's empowerment. It argues that economic progress cannot be sustained without active female participation in the workforce and equal access to education and resources. Through real-world case examples, the book illustrates how investing in women leads to stronger economies and more resilient communities.
For students and general readers, this book serves as an eye-opener, showing that economics is not just about numbers but about human well-being.
University students studying economics, development studies, or political science can use it as a reference to understand real-world economic applications beyond theoretical models. For activists and professionals working in social development, it provides a strong foundation for advocacy and policy formulation.
Even a curious reader with no formal background in economics can grasp its insights, as it presents issues in an engaging and relatable manner.
On the other hand, Bangladesher Orthoniti: Bortoman O Vobishyot takes a deeper dive into the structural challenges and prospects of the country's financial landscape.
The book examines the consequences of economic mismanagement, corruption, and institutional inefficiencies while also proposing potential solutions.
Unlike conventional economic textbooks, it explores unexpected yet relatable topics, such as how festival economies influence financial flows during Eid, Durga Puja and Ekushey Boi Mela. It also discusses how digital transformations are reshaping industries and how social issues like poverty and gender-based violence intersect with economic progress.
Dr Jahan highlights the importance of empowering women as economic drivers, emphasizing how policies that promote financial inclusion and workplace equity can significantly boost national productivity. He argues that breaking gender barriers in business and politics is not just a social necessity but an economic imperative. The book makes it clear that building a more inclusive economy — where women can contribute without limitations — is essential for Bangladesh's long-term growth.
For students, this book serves as a guide to understanding the complexities of Bangladesh's economic trajectory. Aspiring policymakers and business professionals can gain insights into necessary structural reforms, while everyday readers will find relatable discussions on digital economies and the impact of financial policies on their lives.
What makes these books truly engaging is their ability to connect economics to everyday life. Instead of overwhelming readers with abstract theories, they spark meaningful conversations.
