Bridging Political Trust in Bangladesh’s Post-Hasina Era: A Path to Sustainable Liberal Democracy 

Sakif Al Ehsan Khan holds a master’s degree in International Development from the University of Edinburgh and an honors degree in Public Administration from the University of Dhaka. He has worked as a research assistant at prominent think tanks, including Innovation Limited, SANEM, and SIPG at North South University, where he currently serves as a research assistant.

MD Shiyan Sadik holds a master’s degree in Economic Development from the Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow, and an honors degree in Economics from the University of Dhaka. A former research associate at CPD, he is currently a lecturer at North South University and has authored numerous academic and newspaper articles.

Citation: Khan, S. A. E., & Sadik, S. MD. (2024). Bridging political trust in Bangladesh’s post-Hasina era: A path to sustainable liberal democracy. TRUEDEM Blog. https://www.truedem.eu/blog/blog4 

Bangladesh, a politically dynamic nation in South Asia, has recently witnessed a monumental shift in governance following the end of Sheikh Hasina’s regime. The events mark a critical turning point, creating an optimistic environment for fostering liberal democracy. However, in developing countries like Bangladesh, building and sustaining political trust remains a cornerstone for ensuring the effective implementation of rules, regulations, and policies. 

Political trust—the public's confidence in the integrity and competence of political institutions—is especially crucial in nations marked by socio-political complexities. In Bangladesh, where moderate and extremist Islamists coexist alongside secular and progressive elements, achieving consensus on a new social contract presents both opportunities and challenges. This transitional period calls for the active involvement of civil society, community leaders, and international partners to establish a governance model rooted in legitimacy and public trust. 

The Role of Political Trust in a Fragile Democracy

In Bangladesh, political trust has long been a divisive topic that is frequently made worse by divisive ideas and combative politics. Critics have voiced worries about authoritarian policies, irregularities in elections, and the weakening of democratic institutions under the Hasina administration. Although the overthrow of the dictatorship has raised expectations for a political awakening, doubts remain as to whether this change will result in true reform or just the replacement of one power structure with another. For Bangladesh, institutional reforms alone cannot establish trust in political systems. It requires that community leaders and citizens actively participate in forming governance systems. Diverse stakeholders are held together by political trust, which guarantees that laws and policies are not only passed but also seen as just, inclusive, and advantageous. However, in countries like Bangladesh where there exists popular demand for democracy, there is a potential risk of manipulation which apparently leads to fascist activities which is being witnessed in many parts of the globe.

The Intersection of Religion and Politics

Religion occupies a significant space in Bangladesh's socio-political landscape. Despite its secular constitution, the nation’s political fabric is deeply influenced by Islamic values, given that nearly 90% of its population identifies as Muslim. Moderate and extremist Islamic groups have historically wielded influence, often polarizing public opinion. In this context, fostering political trust requires careful navigation between secularism and religious sensitivity. The emergence of extremist narratives, if left unaddressed, could undermine democratic progress and fuel political instability. However, religious leaders and communities can also play a constructive role by promoting values of justice, tolerance, and accountability, which align with democratic ideals. 

The challenge lies in integrating these diverse voices into the political discourse without compromising the principles of liberal democracy. This requires not only institutional mechanisms but also grassroots efforts to build consensus and mutual respect among different ideological groups.  There have been a number of studies on religiosity. But in the context of countries like Bangladesh, there has been almost no study on the multi- dimensional and inter-related relationship between religious belief, social practices, and state concerns. Also, the perspective of the youths who are supposed to be potential pivotal stake- holders in the foreseeable future and the supposed to be policy-makers is also important to understand. 

The Need for Inclusive Social Contracts

As Bangladesh negotiates its new social contract, the process must go beyond elite-driven discussions. The legitimacy of any governance framework depends on its ability to reflect the aspirations and needs of those it seeks to serve. Public trust cannot be achieved without meaningful engagement with communities at the grassroots level.  A participatory approach, where citizens, civil society organizations, and local leaders are actively involved in policymaking, can bridge the gap between the state and its people. For instance, ensuring representation of marginalized groups, including women, youth, and religious minorities, can enhance the inclusivity and equity of governance systems. 

International partners, particularly European nations, often provide recommendations for strengthening democracy in Bangladesh. While these suggestions are valuable, their effectiveness depends on contextualizing them within the socio-cultural realities of the country. External advice should complement, not overshadow, homegrown solutions that resonate with local communities. 

The Role of Civil Society and International Stakeholders

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Bangladesh have historically played a vital role in advocating for democratic values, human rights, and social justice. In the post-Hasina era, their role becomes even more critical in monitoring governance processes, ensuring transparency, and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups. However, CSOs often operate in a challenging environment, facing legal and financial constraints. Strengthening their capacity and safeguarding their independence is essential for fostering a robust civil society that can hold the government accountable. International stakeholders, including development partners and intergovernmental organizations, also have a significant role to play. Their involvement should focus on capacity-building, technical assistance, and facilitating dialogue among diverse stakeholders. Rather than imposing prescriptive solutions, they should prioritize empowering local actors to lead the process of democratic consolidation. 

Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Governance

One of the enduring challenges for Bangladesh is reconciling traditional values with the demands of modern governance. The country’s political history is deeply rooted in its struggle for independence, which has instilled a strong sense of nationalism and resilience. At the same time, global trends such as digitalization, climate change, and economic globalization demand adaptive and forward-looking governance models. Building political trust in this context requires a delicate balance. Governance frameworks must honor the cultural and historical identity of Bangladesh while embracing innovation and inclusivity. For instance, leveraging technology to enhance transparency in governance can foster public confidence while addressing the demands of a digitally savvy younger generation. 

Youth as Catalysts for Change

The youth population in Bangladesh represents a significant demographic, with nearly one-third of the population under the age of 25. This generation has grown up in an era of rapid globalization, technological advancement, and social media connectivity. They are not only the most affected by political decisions but also the most vocal in demanding accountability and reform. Engaging youth in the political process is vital for building long-term political trust. This can be achieved through initiatives such as youth leadership programs, civic education, and platforms for dialogue between young citizens and policymakers. By empowering young people to take an active role in governance, Bangladesh can harness their energy and creativity to drive democratic progress. 

Challenges to Building Public Trust

Despite the optimism surrounding the post-Hasina transition, several challenges remain. These include: 

1. Polarization and Partisan Politics: The deep-rooted rivalry between major political parties often undermines efforts to build consensus on critical national issues. 

2. Corruption and Nepotism: Public perception of corruption in governance erodes trust and discourages citizen engagement. 

3. Weak Institutions: The lack of autonomy and capacity in key institutions, such as the judiciary and election commission, hinders their ability to function effectively and impartially. 

4. Threats to Freedom of Expression: Restrictions on media and dissenting voices create an environment of fear and mistrust. 

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach that combines institutional reforms, capacity-building, and cultural shifts in political behavior. 

Opportunities for Democratic Renewal

While the road ahead is fraught with challenges, the post-Hasina era also presents unique opportunities for democratic renewal. The transitional phase offers a chance to: 

- Rebuild public institutions with greater transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. 

- Foster a culture of dialogue and collaboration among political and social actors. 

- Strengthen the rule of law and ensure equal access to justice for all citizens. 

- Promote a governance model that prioritizes sustainable development and social equity. 

Are we truly advancing towards a vision for a trustworthy democracy? Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture in its democratic journey. The optimism following the fall of the Hasina regime must be channeled into concrete actions that build political trust and public legitimacy. This requires a holistic approach that integrates institutional reforms, community engagement, and international cooperation. By prioritizing inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, Bangladesh can lay the foundation for a governance model that not only meets the aspirations of its citizens but also serves as a beacon of hope for other developing democracies. The path to a trustworthy democracy is challenging, but with collective effort and unwavering commitment, it is a goal within reach.