Bangladesh’s Democracy Index Plummets to 100th Position

Bangladesh’s democracy ranking dropped 25 positions to 100th in the EIU’s 2024 Democracy Index, attributed to rigged elections and political turmoil. The index typifies a global decline in democracy as autocracies rise. In this context, grassroots movements have begun to challenge existing power structures, despite the potential for sectarian violence and further unrest. The interim government is prioritizing reforms while facing pressure for timely elections, which may be delayed beyond 2025.

The 2024 Democracy Index compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) reports that Bangladesh has experienced a substantial decline, dropping 25 positions to rank 100th out of 167 nations. The country continues to be categorized as a hybrid regime but now falls towards the lower end of this classification. The decline correlates with political turmoil, including allegations of election rigging, the removal of the prime minister, and widespread civil unrest.

In the latest index release, India holds the 41st position, while Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, and Afghanistan rank at 79th, 96th, 124th, and 167th, respectively, with Afghanistan being the lowest globally. The report indicates an ongoing trend of decreasing global democracy, as autocratic governance expands. According to Joan Hoey, director of the Democracy Index, “The world’s democracies are struggling.”

This index evaluates five principal elements: electoral processes and pluralism, civil liberties, governmental efficiency, political involvement, and political culture. Nations are categorized into full democracies, flawed democracies, hybrid regimes, or authoritarian frameworks based on this assessment. Norway achieved the highest score (9.81), while Afghanistan obtained the lowest (0.25).

During the January 2024 general election in Bangladesh, there were claims that the ruling party suppressed dissent, limited media freedoms, and manipulated election results, suppressing opposition. Despite these challenges, grassroots movements, especially among youth, have emerged to advocate for change, reflecting a growing discontent with traditional political structures. However, the protests leading to Sheikh Hasina’s ousting in August 2024 also highlighted sectarian tensions, resulting in violent incidents against minority communities.

According to the EIU, the interim government is under pressure to organize new elections. Nevertheless, it is prioritizing reforms aimed at restoring democratic institutions, a process that may postpone elections beyond 2025.

The 2024 Democracy Index reveals a worrying trend for Bangladesh, as it experiences a significant decline in its democratic status and faces increasing political instability. This situation contrasts with the global trend of authoritarianism gaining traction. As grassroots movements rise in response to established political failures, the future of democracy in Bangladesh remains uncertain, particularly with the anticipated delays in elections and potential unrest.

Original Source: www.thedailystar.net