Long-Form

Why Bangladesh Needs DP World’s Investment

The DP World deal could be a game-changer for Bangladesh. We need to not let vested interests or shallow nativism trip us up.

The Economic Recovery Has Begun

Orthodox macroeconomic policies are having desired effects, with the exchange rate and the central bank’s stock of reserves stabilizing even as import restrictions have been lifted. Higher interest rates have had a dampening effect on economic activities, but very strong remittances have supported household consumption, while exports and public demand also contributed to growth. The economic recovery had started by summer, though pockets of weakness remain, particularly in private investment consumption.

Opening Doors, Unlocking Potential

Bangladesh has a large, talented youth population eager to study and contribute abroad. The US should double its student intake from Bangladesh to tap into this potential, boost its economy, and strengthen long-term partnerships.

The End of Exceptionalism: Why Israel Cannot Survive in Its Current Form

From global isolation to internal collapse, a reckoning is coming.

We came apart, before we could come together: The root lies in our identity crisis

We have still to define a national identity for Bangladesh, and we need a national dialogue on the matter or we will remain a fractured people.

Civil society must reassess its role in facilitating reform and this is why

If reforms are to pass, then all the political parties need to own them and feel that they have taken the lead and not that it was something forced upon them. Reforms the parties believe are imposed on them are destined to fail.

Delaying the Announcement of an Election Roadmap is No Longer Tenable

Bangladesh now stands at the threshold between gridlock and reconstruction — the Chief Adviser must set a specific month for the upcoming elections and do so without hesitation.

The Liberation War and Zia: Some Falsehoods and the Pursuit of Truth

On the occasion of Zia’s 44th martyrdom anniversary, I express my hope that everyone involved will engage in long, dispassionate, and objective research on Zia’s role during the Liberation War.

The Weaponization of History

What happens when history is turned into an instrument not of understanding, but of coercion, sanctification, and political legitimacy? Across continents and ideologies, regimes and ruling parties have wielded history not just to remember, but to silence, not to teach, but to control.

How To Reach Consensus On Reform

The only meaningful item remaining on the reform agenda is whether an Upper House should be based on PR or not. Everything else can be sorted out without difficulty. We are closer to consensus than you think.

Childhood’s End

Soon we will no longer be able to rely on Prof Yunus's global reputation to smooth things over with allies and adversaries alike. It is time for Bangladesh to invest in its diplomatic capacity. The future belongs to those who can skillfully maneuver on the world stage.

Many Faces of the Digital Divide: Why Access Alone Is Not Enough

Edtech and e-learning are not a silver bullet. They are just one piece of a complex and many-layered puzzle that we need to solve to deliver education to the masses.

Kaladan Smokescreen: India’s Response to Yunus’s Northeast Vision

The Kaladan Corridor is India's supposed masterstroke to protect its interests on its eastern flank. Unfortunately for them, there's many slip twixt cup and lip

Bangladesh aka Amar Shonar Bangla: The Golden Phoenix of the Indian subcontinent

How and why Bangladesh is both heir to a heritage and potential unique in the region. It is our time now

I have got a job, but …

Unlocking opportunity by tackling Bangladesh’s employment challenges

The kids are alright, how about you?

An appeal to fellow 40-plus folks to wake up from selfish slumber and join our kids