Job loss, hunger stalk South Asia in COVID-19 times

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant job losses and increased poverty across South Asia, affecting daily wage earners, informal workers, and even private sector employees. In Bangladesh, millions are expected to become jobless, with the informal sector being the hardest hit. India has seen a record unemployment rate, with millions losing their jobs in April alone. Pakistan has launched initiatives to mitigate unemployment, including a 'green stimulus scheme' and a web portal for jobless individuals. Afghanistan faces compounded challenges due to political instability and reduced international aid, though the IMF has provided emergency assistance. Vulnerable communities, such as sex workers, are particularly affected, receiving little attention from government or aid groups. The International Labour Organization warns that nearly half the world's workers are at immediate risk of losing their jobs, highlighting the global impact of the pandemic.

Rulers are using pandemic to amass more power; Bangladesh is an example

Rulers globally are exploiting the pandemic to consolidate power, drawing parallels to colonial rulers who expanded control during crises. Despite the pandemic being a major topic in South Asian parliaments, health sector funding remains inadequate. Citizens are primarily concerned with the immediate impacts of COVID-19 on their daily lives, such as infection rates and lockdown areas, rather than broader political implications.

Bangladesh lowest in press freedom rankings in South Asia

Bangladesh ranks the lowest in press freedom in South Asia according to the World Press Freedom Index 2020 by Reporters Without Borders, positioned at 151 out of 180 countries. The country has seen a decline in press freedom over the past five years. Journalists face harassment, attacks by ruling party supporters, and legal challenges such as the Digital Security Act. Notable cases include the disappearance of photojournalist Shafiqul Islam Kajol and legal actions against journalists Matiur Rahman Chowdhury and Saifuzzaman Shikhor. Organizations like UNESCO, Ain o Salish Kendra, Amnesty International, Transparency International Bangladesh, and the Committee to Protect Journalists have expressed concerns over the safety and independence of journalists in Bangladesh.

Ershad's first death anniversary: Despotism still survives in Bangladesh

On the first death anniversary of General Hussain Muhammad Ershad, former military dictator and chairman of the Jatiya Party, the article reflects on his legacy and the persistence of despotism in Bangladesh's political system. Ershad, who seized power in a bloodless coup in 1982, was ousted in 1990 but left a lasting impact on the country's politics. The piece argues that despite the end of his rule, the political structure he left behind has allowed dictatorial tendencies to persist, with subsequent governments exhibiting autocratic behaviors. The writer, a journalist and South Asian geopolitical analyst, draws parallels between Ershad's regime and the current political climate, suggesting that the struggle against dictatorship was more against the individual than the system, as evidenced by the continued use of religion in politics and the lack of media freedom.

Bangladesh’s National Election in 2023: The Path of Light Remains Closed

The article discusses the upcoming 2023 national election in Bangladesh, highlighting concerns about its fairness under the current ruling party, Awami League. It critiques the previous elections in 2014 and 2018 for their lack of credibility and questions whether the newly formed Election Commission, led by Kazi Habibul Awal, can ensure a fair election. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and other political figures argue that fair elections are not possible without a caretaker government. The article emphasizes the need for the Election Commission to operate impartially and enforce existing election laws strictly. It also underscores the role of independent media and the cooperation of political leaders and law enforcement in ensuring a fair election.

In Bangladesh, religion becomes a weapon when cultural norms fail

The article discusses the rise of religious violence and mob lynching in Bangladesh, highlighting the role of religion as a tool for violence when cultural norms fail. It criticizes the lack of condemnation from Islamic scholars and state authorities, and points to the influence of nationalist leaders and social media in spreading intolerance. The article also references international reactions to French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks on Islam and the case of Asia Bibi in Pakistan.

Extrajudicial killings needs to stop in Bangladesh; authorities must ensure accountability

US senators have called for sanctions on senior commanders of Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) due to extrajudicial killings and human rights violations. Despite a recent decrease in such killings following the intervention of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the issue remains prevalent, particularly in the context of the war on drugs. The article criticizes the Bangladeshi media for uncritically accepting police narratives and calls for greater accountability and transparency from law enforcement and government institutions.

Bangladesh’s fight against COVID-19: Corruption the main obstacle

Corruption in Bangladesh's health sector, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, is rampant, with numerous instances of financial misconduct and mismanagement. Key figures and organizations, including JMI, Regent Hospital, and the Department of Health, are implicated in various corrupt activities, such as supplying fake N95 masks and misappropriating funds. Despite the critical situation, the health department continues to operate with significant corruption, affecting the quality and availability of healthcare services. The article calls for greater accountability and transparency to combat these issues.

Double whammy puts Bangladesh media in deep crisis

The media industry in Bangladesh is facing unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the controversial Digital Security Act (DSA). The pandemic has severely impacted newspaper sales and advertising revenue, leading to the closure of numerous publications and job losses for journalists. The DSA, described as draconian, has further stifled free speech, with numerous arrests of journalists and critics. The government's actions have been criticized for increasing repression rather than supporting the media during this crisis. Bangladesh's press freedom ranking remains low, with significant implications for democracy and independent expression.

1.1 million Rohingya refugees now out of consideration amid the pandemic

The Rohingya repatriation process to Myanmar has been halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with discussions ceasing and the Joint Working Group not meeting as planned. The upcoming general elections in Myanmar further diminish the likelihood of repatriation talks. The refugee crisis could be resolved by return to improved homelands, resettlement in third countries, or assimilation, but the latter is deemed unrealistic for Bangladesh. The rise of radical Buddhist nationalism in Asia and support from countries like China, Japan, India, and Russia have emboldened Myanmar. Despite increased exports and EU sanctions, positive signs from India and the Myanmar Union Election Commission suggest potential progress in repatriation discussions.