In the 21st century, Bangladesh has been a vibrant landscape of social, political, and environmental activism. From the bustling streets of Dhaka to the remote areas of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, diverse movements have emerged, driven by the aspirations and demands of its people. These movements have not only highlighted critical issues but have also played pivotal roles in shaping the nation's policies and societal norms. In this blog, we delve into ten transformative movements that have defined Bangladesh in the 21st century, exploring their origins, impacts, and the enduring legacy they continue to build.
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The Anti-Corruption Movement gained significant momentum during the tenure of the caretaker government from 2006 to 2008. This movement aimed to address pervasive corruption in the political and business sectors of Bangladesh. The interim government, backed by the military, launched a nationwide anti-corruption drive, arresting high-profile politicians, bureaucrats, and businessmen. Notable figures included former prime ministers Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina, who were both detained on corruption charges. The movement highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in governance and led to the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) as an independent body.
The Shahbagh Movement, also known as the Ganajagaran Mancha movement, began on February 5, 2013, after the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sentenced Abdul Quader Molla, a Jamaat-e-Islami leader, to life imprisonment for his war crimes during the 1971 Liberation War. Protesters, mostly young people and students, gathered at Shahbagh Square in Dhaka, demanding the death penalty for Molla and other convicted war criminals. The movement quickly evolved into a broader call for justice, secularism, and a rejection of religious extremism. It played a significant role in shaping public discourse on justice for war crimes and the role of religion in politics.
The Quota Reform Movement was a student-led initiative that started in early 2018, calling for a reduction in the government's job quota system. At that time, 56% of government jobs were reserved for specific groups, including descendants of freedom fighters, women, and ethnic minorities. Protesters argued that the quota system was unfair and disadvantaged meritorious candidates. The movement saw massive student participation across various universities and culminated in a series of clashes with law enforcement. In response to the protests, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced the abolition of the quota system in April 2018, though the issue remains contentious.
The Road Safety Protests erupted in July 2018 after two students from Shaheed Ramiz Uddin Cantonment College were killed by a speeding bus in Dhaka. The incident sparked outrage among students, leading to widespread protests demanding stricter traffic laws, better enforcement, and safer roads. Students took to the streets, regulating traffic themselves to highlight the chaos and negligence in the traffic system. The protests gained national and international attention, prompting the government to promise reforms, including implementing a new Road Transport Act. However, enforcement remains a challenge, and road safety continues to be a major issue.
The Digital Security Act (DSA) was enacted in October 2018, replacing the controversial Information and Communication Technology Act. However, the new law faced significant backlash from activists, journalists, and civil society members who argued that it curtailed freedom of speech and press freedom. The act contains provisions that allow for the arrest and detention of individuals for online content deemed defamatory or harmful to national security. Protests and campaigns against the DSA have continued, with critics calling for its repeal or amendment to protect fundamental rights. The law has been used to arrest several journalists and activists, fueling ongoing dissent.
Bangladesh has witnessed numerous environmental movements, particularly against projects perceived as threats to the environment. One of the most notable is the opposition to the Rampal coal-fired power plant near the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Environmentalists and activists argue that the plant poses a severe risk to the delicate ecosystem of the Sundarbans. Protests, both in Bangladesh and internationally, have highlighted concerns over pollution, deforestation, and climate change. These movements have raised awareness about the need for sustainable development and environmental conservation.
While not a traditional movement, the Rohingya refugee crisis has had significant political and humanitarian impacts in Bangladesh. Since August 2017, over 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled violence and persecution in Myanmar's Rakhine State and sought refuge in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The massive influx has led to one of the world's largest refugee camps. The crisis has prompted various responses, including humanitarian aid efforts, advocacy for Rohingya rights, and diplomatic efforts to repatriate the refugees. The situation remains complex, with ongoing challenges related to security, health, and integration of the refugees.
The garment industry is a cornerstone of Bangladesh's economy, employing millions of workers, mostly women. However, the industry has been plagued by poor working conditions, low wages, and safety hazards. Workers' rights movements have been a constant feature, with protests, strikes, and demands for better pay and working conditions. Notable incidents include the Rana Plaza collapse in 2013, which killed over 1,100 workers and sparked global outrage. These movements have led to some improvements, such as the establishment of the Accord on Fire and Building Safety, but many issues remain unresolved.
The indigenous peoples of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) and other regions have long struggled for land rights, cultural recognition, and autonomy. Movements such as the Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (PCJSS) have been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of indigenous communities. Despite the 1997 CHT Peace Accord, many promises remain unfulfilled, leading to ongoing protests and demands for implementation. Issues include land disputes, militarization, and the marginalization of indigenous cultures and languages.
Women’s rights movements in Bangladesh have made significant strides in advocating for gender equality and addressing issues such as violence against women, child marriage, and workplace discrimination. Organizations like Naripokkho and Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) have been instrumental in raising awareness and pushing for legal reforms. High-profile cases of violence, such as the murder of Nusrat Jahan Rafi in 2019, have galvanized public opinion and led to stronger laws and enforcement. The movements continue to fight for equal rights and opportunities for women in all spheres of life.
These movements have played crucial roles in shaping modern Bangladesh, addressing issues of justice, equality, and human rights.