The World Bank has recognized the remarkable success of Bangladesh’s poverty reduction efforts under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, highlighting the country’s extraordinary socio-economic progress over the past decade and a half.
In its latest report, “Bangladesh Poverty Assessment 2025,” the global lender outlines how the nation witnessed historic poverty alleviation between 2010 and 2022.
According to the report, nearly 25 million people escaped poverty during this period, underscoring the effectiveness of the pro-people policies implemented by the Awami League government. Additionally, 9 million people moved out of extreme poverty—an achievement that the report terms “unprecedented in the region.”
The data reveals that Bangladesh’s extreme poverty rate dropped from 12.2% in 2010 to 5.6% in 2022, while overall poverty declined from 37.1% to 18.7%. These indicators demonstrate that Hasina’s “Vision 2021” and her pledge for “digital and inclusive development” were not mere political slogans but a structured blueprint for economic emancipation.
Beyond income growth, the World Bank emphasizes significant improvements in critical human development indicators. Access to electricity, education, and sanitation expanded dramatically, with initiatives like the “Electricity for All” program and modernization of rural and urban sanitation systems playing crucial roles in improving living conditions nationwide.
While the report does note challenges related to employment generation and income inequality, analysts argue that the mega projects undertaken in the last 15 years— including the Padma Bridge, Dhaka Metro Rail, and nationwide economic zones— have already laid the foundation for large-scale industrialization and future job creation.
The World Bank’s recommendations for pro-poor policies and investment in modern industries, they say, align with initiatives Hasina’s administration had already initiated through special economic zones and high-tech parks.
The report also highlights the strengthening of social safety nets, noting that programs targeting the elderly, widows, and marginalized communities became more robust and effective under Hasina’s leadership, gaining international recognition.
Overall, the World Bank’s assessment stands as a “certificate of achievement” for Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year tenure, during which Bangladesh navigated global crises—including the COVID-19 pandemic and worldwide economic shocks—yet managed to lift millions out of poverty.
Experts say that Bangladesh’s future progress will largely depend on building upon the strong economic base established during this period, with industrialization and employment creation emerging as the next strategic priorities.
