JBS Vol 21. Num 2. 2019 - Bangladesh of the Future: Prospects and Challenges

At the time of its independence, some experts called Bangladesh a “test case of development.” Defying the challenge implied by this characterization, Bangladesh has attained remarkable progress in the past decades, becoming a middle-income country with significant social achievements. The nation has bright prospects over the next thirty years, favored by factors such as political stability, homogeneity of the population, compactness of settlement, demographic bonus, a dynamic entrepreneurial class, a culture that places a high premium on education, a large diaspora, and the proximity to India, China, and the ASEAN countries. However, Bangladesh also faces many challenges in realizing the full potential of these factors. The challenges include raising the efficiency of public investment, strengthening local government, achieving greater equity and social cohesion, reducing corruption, protecting the environment, and ensuring political inclusion. The young generation, imbued by patriotism, confidence, and enthusiasm should be able to carry Bangladesh to greater success.