An IRI assessment warns Bangladesh’s 2026 vote must be inclusive, transparent, and civilian-led—turning ambitious reforms into enforceable rules and restoring broad democratic participation.
A BNP candidate was wounded and a supporter killed in a gun attack in Chattogram, exposing deep-rooted criminal rivalries ahead of the national election.
Dr. Muhammad Yunus faces mounting criticism for excluding political parties and tilting toward China, prompting calls for Western intervention to restore democracy.
The UK remains Bangladesh’s top FDI source despite a 40.7% drop in inflows, while total FDI rose 19% due to reinvestment and intra-company loans, Bangladesh Bank data shows.