Sheikh Rahman's rise: Can he unite a divided Bangladesh?
Sheikh Rahman's leadership faces the challenge of uniting a politically divided Bangladesh.
Sheikh Rahman's rise to power in Bangladesh presents both opportunities and challenges for the country. His family background and political experience position him as a potential unifying figure. However, deep political divisions and historical grievances could hinder his efforts to bring the nation together.
Key issues include addressing corruption, promoting economic growth, and ensuring fair elections. Rahman's ability to navigate these challenges will determine his success in uniting Bangladesh and fostering stability in the region.
Key Facts
Sheikh Rahman's rise to power in Bangladesh presents both opportunities and challenges.
His family background and political experience position him as a potential unifying figure.
Deep political divisions and historical grievances could hinder his efforts to bring the nation together.
Key issues include addressing corruption, promoting economic growth, and ensuring fair elections.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 2: International Relations, Polity and Governance
Connects to syllabus areas of India and its neighborhood, political systems of other countries, role of international organizations
Potential question types: Statement-based MCQs, analytical mains questions on regional cooperation and political stability
Visual Insights
Bangladesh: Key Locations
Map highlighting Bangladesh, its capital Dhaka, and neighboring countries India and Myanmar. Shows the geographical context of Sheikh Rahman's rise to power.
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More Information
Background
Latest Developments
Recent years have seen Bangladesh making significant strides in economic development, particularly in the garment industry. However, concerns remain about labor rights and working conditions in this sector. The government has been working to improve infrastructure and attract foreign investment to diversify the economy.
Political tensions have persisted, with allegations of human rights abuses and restrictions on freedom of expression. The role of civil society organizations and the media in holding the government accountable has come under scrutiny. International organizations have called for greater transparency and respect for democratic principles.
Looking ahead, Bangladesh faces challenges related to climate change, including rising sea levels and increased frequency of natural disasters. The country is also grappling with the issue of Rohingya refugees who have fled from neighboring Myanmar. Addressing these challenges will require strong leadership and international cooperation.
Sheikh Rahman's ability to address these challenges and unite a divided nation will be crucial for Bangladesh's future stability and prosperity. His success will depend on his ability to build consensus, promote good governance, and ensure inclusive economic growth. The upcoming elections will be a key test of his leadership and the country's democratic institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the key issues Sheikh Rahman needs to address to unite Bangladesh, as relevant for UPSC Mains?
Sheikh Rahman faces several critical challenges to unite Bangladesh. These include addressing corruption, promoting economic growth, and ensuring fair elections. Overcoming deep political divisions and historical grievances will also be crucial for fostering national unity and stability.
Exam Tip
For UPSC Mains, structure your answer around these key issues, providing specific examples and potential solutions.
2. What is the historical background that contributes to the political divisions in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh's political landscape is shaped by its struggle for independence from Pakistan in 1971, leading to deep political divisions. The assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Rahman, in 1975, further deepened these divisions.
Exam Tip
Understanding this historical context is crucial for analyzing current political dynamics.
3. What are the recent developments in Bangladesh's economy?
Bangladesh has made significant strides in economic development, particularly in the garment industry. The government is working to improve infrastructure and attract foreign investment to diversify the economy. However, concerns remain about labor rights and working conditions.
Exam Tip
Focus on economic development and related social issues.
4. How might Sheikh Rahman's family background influence his ability to unite Bangladesh?
Sheikh Rahman's family background and political experience position him as a potential unifying figure. However, the deep political divisions and historical grievances could hinder his efforts to bring the nation together.
Exam Tip
Consider both the advantages and disadvantages of dynastic politics in your analysis.
5. What does 'political polarization' mean in the context of Bangladesh, and why is it important for UPSC?
Political polarization refers to the widening gap between opposing political ideologies and groups. In Bangladesh, this polarization stems from historical events and differing visions for the country's future, making it difficult to achieve consensus on key issues. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing political stability and governance.
Exam Tip
Relate the concept of political polarization to specific events and policies in Bangladesh.
6. What are the key facts about Sheikh Rahman's rise to power in Bangladesh for UPSC Prelims?
Sheikh Rahman's rise to power presents both opportunities and challenges for Bangladesh. His family background and political experience position him as a potential unifying figure. Key issues include addressing corruption, promoting economic growth, and ensuring fair elections.
Exam Tip
Focus on the key personalities and issues associated with his rise to power.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding Bangladesh's political system: 1. The President is the head of government and holds executive power. 2. The Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are the two dominant political forces. 3. Bangladesh's foreign policy is guided by the principle of "Friendship towards all, malice towards none." Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is INCORRECT: In Bangladesh, the Prime Minister is the head of government and holds executive power, while the President is the head of state but holds a largely ceremonial role. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are indeed the two dominant political forces in Bangladesh. Statement 3 is CORRECT: Bangladesh's foreign policy is guided by the principle of "Friendship towards all, malice towards none."
2. Which of the following organizations is NOT associated with regional cooperation in South Asia? A) SAARC B) BIMSTEC C) ASEAN D) BBIN
- A.SAARC
- B.BIMSTEC
- C.ASEAN
- D.BBIN
Show Answer
Answer: C
ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is an organization of Southeast Asian countries, not South Asian countries. SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), and BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) are all associated with regional cooperation in South Asia.
3. Consider the following statements regarding the challenges faced by Bangladesh: 1. Bangladesh is facing challenges related to climate change, including rising sea levels and increased frequency of natural disasters. 2. The country is grappling with the issue of Rohingya refugees who have fled from neighboring Myanmar. 3. Bangladesh has successfully eliminated corruption in its government and public sector. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 is CORRECT: Bangladesh is indeed facing significant challenges due to climate change, including rising sea levels and increased frequency of natural disasters. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Rohingya refugee crisis is a major challenge for Bangladesh, as it has provided refuge to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing violence in Myanmar. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: While Bangladesh has made efforts to combat corruption, it has not been fully eliminated and remains a significant challenge.
Source Articles
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