In Davos, Dr. Yunus accused Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government of presenting “fake reports” on development, without specifying which reports he considered false. In contrast, the United Nations, World Bank, IMF, ADB, and other foreign agencies have acknowledged Bangladesh’s economic and social advancements during Sheikh Hasina’s leadership. According to these reports, Bangladesh achieved an average annual GDP growth of 6.8% between 2009 and 2023. Simultaneously, the country set an exemplary record in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning itself as a model for other developing nations.
Bangladesh was on track to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status to a developing nation by 2026. According to the World Bank, Bangladesh’s GDP in 2023 was $470 billion, making it the second-largest economy in South Asia after India.
It is evident from Dr. Yunus’s remarks that he utilized the World Economic Forum to further his political and personal grudges. By making unfounded accusations, Dr. Yunus denigrated Sheikh Hasina’s government’s development programs as “fake,” damaging Bangladesh’s reputation internationally. This would therefore make it more difficult to draw in foreign trade and investment.
Dr. Yunus’s visit to Davos and his remarks were not only unproductive but also detrimental to the country’s interests. By pursuing personal agendas, he attempted to undermine Bangladesh’s developmental achievements and potential. The progress Bangladesh has made under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership has been recognized globally. Yet, Dr. Yunus chose to dismiss these successes, causing damage to the country’s reputation.