Posts

Counterpoint with Zafar Sobhan | Episode 07 | Shahnoor Rabbani

In this episode 07 of Counterpoint With Zafar Sobhan, host Zafar Sobhan is joined by sports commentator and founder of Shahnoor's Shot, Shahnoor Rabbani. The conversation explores the growth of sports media, the evolving football culture in Bangladesh, and the impact of digital platforms on modern sports journalism.

Bangladesh Bank Needs to Establish Policy Credibility. This is not How.

The Monetary Policy Statement was announced in the last week of June, and was almost immediately hemmed in by the circular announcing the spread cap -- a sequencing that signals incoherence. And that incoherence matters more than the actual policy. Macroeconomic policy cannot be effective in supporting growth or curbing inflation unless it is credible.

The Unfinished Promise of Police Reform

Abu Sayed's killing -- and the statement later made by the police officer convicted of his murder -- did not simply expose failures in the conduct of individual officers. Together, they illuminated deeper structural weaknesses within policing and compelled the nation to confront fundamental questions about accountability, professionalism, and the relationship between the police and the public.

Hormuz is Unfixable Now

The latest ceasefire between the United States and Iran has failed to restore confidence in the Strait of Hormuz, exposing the world's continued dependence on a chokepoint that remains vulnerable to disruption.

South Asia's Strategic Moment

History has placed South Asia and the Indian Ocean Region at the centre of 21st-century global transformation. The region's future lies not in choosing between competing powers but in pursuing inclusive modernization, strengthening regional partnerships and leveraging the unique strengths of individual nations

Hasina Fires Blanks from New Delhi

Some analysts argue that Hasina may continue to serve as a strategic political asset in India’s Bangladesh policy, reflecting a Kautilyan approach that could be summarised as: “You have China; we have Hasina.”

Time to Open Outward Digital Remittances

Allowing foreign operators to participate in outward remittances -- under a controlled and bank-intermediated framework -- could be a game-changing policy shift.

We're Looking to Pakistan for Safety Tips? Seriously?

The more important question is whether technology and outcomes should be treated as equivalent. Installing thousands of surveillance cameras is not the same as creating a safe society.

Cultural Bourgeoisie | Episode 4 | Fifa World Cup 2026: The Final Call

In this episode of Cultural Bourgeoisie, Jyoti Rahman and Ehteshamul Haque share their final thoughts and predictions ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The discussion covers tournament favourites, standout players, tactical battles, and the biggest questions before the competition reaches its conclusion.

Sheikh Hasina’s Last Dance?

Hasina has nudged New Delhi to define its position on her extradition and forced the BNP to confront, sooner than it may wish, whether it truly wants her back and, if so, on what terms.

Cultural Bourgeoisie | Episode 3 | Hamilton and USA Turns 250

In Episode 3 of Cultural Bourgeoisie, Jyoti Rahman and Ehteshamul Haque discuss the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton as the United States marks its 250th anniversary. The episode explores the founding ideals of the American republic and their lasting influence on politics, governance, and economic development.

Too Little, Too Late

While we may briefly celebrate that the onslaught of criticism finally led to an apology and considerations for exam retakes, the government's quick patch-ups, for now, are, simply put, temporary band-aids.

The Crisis of Coherent Foreign Policy

Engagement with China is presented as proof of resistance against Western dominance. Good relations with India become synonymous with regional stability. Foreign policy becomes a performance of political identity rather than a framework for advancing long-term national interests.

The Unseen Line: On Andrzej Bargiel, Everest, and the Geography of Ambition

The Western adventurer, armed with a historically cultivated obsession and corporate capital, comes to a land where the mountains are woven into the spiritual and daily life. He relies on the unparalleled skill and strength of the Sherpas, whose names are too often relegated to the fine print of history, to achieve a personal zenith.

The J-Z Show | Episode 25 | USA Turns 250 -- Political Commemorations at Home and Abroad

Jon Danilowicz and Zafar Sobhan discuss the United States' 250th anniversary, exploring how political commemorations shape national identity, historical memory, and international perceptions in an increasingly interconnected world.

What is Going On in Europe?

Keir Starmer’s resignation in the UK, the sixth in a row over the last ten years, suggests a genuine crisis not only in the UK but across European politics.