Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh’s longest-serving Prime Minister, has led the country since 2009 under the Awami League (AL) government. Her tenure has seen remarkable economic growth, infrastructure development, and social progress, but it has also faced criticism over authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and political repression.
As Bangladesh navigates 2025, this article provides a balanced analysis of Sheikh Hasina’s government—highlighting its key achievements while addressing the major criticisms from opposition groups, civil society, and international observers.
1. Major Achievements of Sheikh Hasina’s Government
1.1 Economic Growth & Development
Bangladesh has transformed from a low-income to a lower-middle-income country under Hasina’s leadership. Key successes include:
✔ GDP Growth:
- Consistently above 6% for over a decade.
- One of the fastest-growing economies in South Asia.
✔ Poverty Reduction:
- Extreme poverty dropped from 31.5% (2010) to ~12% (2025).
- Social safety nets expanded (e.g., allowances for widows, elderly).
✔ Garment Industry Boom:
- 2nd largest apparel exporter (after China).
- $55+ billion in exports (2025), employing 4 million+ workers.
✔ Mega Infrastructure Projects:
- Padma Bridge (self-funded, $3.9 billion) – Boosts regional connectivity.
- Metro Rail (Dhaka) – Eases traffic congestion.
- Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant – First nuclear energy project.
1.2 Digital Bangladesh & Technological Advancements
✔ Expanded internet access (130 million+ users in 2025).
✔ Mobile banking revolution (bKash, Nagad).
✔ Government services digitized (e.g., online tax filing, land records).
1.3 Social Development & Women Empowerment
✔ Primary education enrollment near-universal (98%+).
✔ Women in workforce increased (garment sector, entrepreneurship).
✔ Reduced maternal & child mortality (UN-recognized progress).
1.4 Foreign Policy & Geopolitical Balancing
✔ Strong ties with India & China – Economic partnerships.
✔ Rohingya crisis management – Hosting 1 million+ refugees.
✔ Strategic neutrality – Avoiding direct conflicts between major powers.
2. Major Criticisms Against Sheikh Hasina’s Government
2.1 Democratic Backsliding & Authoritarianism
✖ One-party dominance – Awami League controls all major institutions.
✖ 2024 elections widely disputed – Opposition boycotted, low turnout.
✖ Judiciary & Election Commission accused of bias.
2.2 Human Rights Violations & Suppression of Dissent
✖ Enforced disappearances (500+ cases since 2009, per rights groups).
✖ Extrajudicial killings (“crossfire” incidents by RAB).
✖ Crackdown on free speech – Digital Security Act (DSA) used to jail journalists.
2.3 Corruption & Nepotism
✖ High-profile scandals (e.g., bank loan defaults by ruling party allies).
✖ Business monopolies – Companies tied to AL leaders dominate sectors.
2.4 Economic Challenges in 2025
✖ Rising inflation (9%+ in 2025).
✖ Foreign reserve crisis – Dropped from $48B (2021) to ~$25B (2025).
✖ Dependence on remittances & garments – Lack of diversified industries.
2.5 Rohingya Crisis & International Pressure
✖ No durable solution – Refugees strain economy & local communities.
✖ US sanctions on RAB – Over human rights abuses.
3. Public Opinion: Support vs. Dissent
3.1 Urban vs. Rural Divide
✔ Rural support remains strong – Due to development projects.
✖ Urban youth frustrated – Over jobs, censorship, and political repression.
3.2 International Perception
✔ Praise for economic growth (World Bank, IMF).
✖ Condemnation over rights abuses (UN, US, EU).
4. Future Prospects: Can Sheikh Hasina Sustain Power?
4.1 Strengths
✔ Strong party machinery.
✔ Lack of viable opposition.
✔ Continued infrastructure push.
4.2 Challenges
✖ Economic instability (inflation, debt).
✖ Youth unemployment & brain drain.
✖ Potential Western sanctions.
4.3 Possible Scenarios
- Continued dominance – If economy stabilizes.
- Mass protests – If living standards decline further.
- International isolation – If rights abuses escalate.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Progress & Controversy
Sheikh Hasina’s government has undeniably transformed Bangladesh—lifting millions from poverty, modernizing infrastructure, and boosting global trade. However, democratic erosion, corruption, and repression stain its legacy.
As 2025 unfolds, the key question is: Will Bangladesh’s economic success outweigh its democratic deficits? Or will growing discontent force a political reckoning?
FAQ: Sheikh Hasina’s Government in 2025
1. What are Sheikh Hasina’s biggest achievements?
- Economic growth, poverty reduction, mega projects (Padma Bridge), digital revolution.
2. Why is her government criticized?
- Authoritarianism, election rigging, human rights abuses, corruption.
3. Is Bangladesh better off under her rule?
- Economically yes, but politically no.
4. Will she remain in power beyond 2025?
- Likely, unless economic crisis or mass protests disrupt stability.
5. How does the world view her leadership?
- Mixed—applauds development but condemns rights violations.