A Glimpse of the Success Stories of Sheikh Hasina's Government

 

In the annals of Bangladesh's political history, the tenure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from 2009 to 2023 stands out as a period of transformative governance and remarkable progress. Guiding the nation through many challenges, Sheikh Hasina's government has been synonymous with development, inclusivity, and resilience.

One of the hallmarks of Sheikh Hasina's governance has been the steadfast focus on economic resilience and sustainable growth. The government's policies and initiatives have propelled Bangladesh into the league of emerging economies, fostering a robust economic landscape. The government's economic agenda has been comprehensive and forward-looking, from infrastructural development projects to strategic investments in critical sectors.

Launching the "Vision 2021" and, subsequently ", Vision 2041" has served as a roadmap for transforming Bangladesh into a developed and prosperous nation. These visionary plans encompass goals related to poverty alleviation, job creation, and infrastructural development, setting a trajectory for sustained economic growth.

The Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector, a cornerstone of Bangladesh's economy, witnessed significant strides during this period. The government's support for the RMG industry, coupled with measures to ensure workplace safety and labour rights, has contributed to the sector's robust performance on the global stage. Bangladesh's economic diversification and resilience in the face of global challenges have tested the effectiveness of policies implemented during Sheikh Hasina's leadership.

Beyond economic growth, Sheikh Hasina's government has prioritised social development and human capital investment. Recognising that a nation's true wealth lies in its people, the government has implemented various initiatives to improve education, healthcare, and overall human well-being.

The "Digital Bangladesh" initiative has been a transformative force, leveraging technology to enhance governance, education, and public services. The widespread digitisation efforts have streamlined administrative processes and empower citizens by increasing access to information and services.

Investments in education have borne fruit, with increased enrolment rates, improvements in educational infrastructure, and initiatives to enhance the quality of education. The government's commitment to creating a skilled workforce has manifested in programs focused on vocational training and technical education, aligning the education system with the needs of a rapidly evolving job market.

In healthcare, the government's initiatives have improved maternal and child health, disease prevention, and healthcare accessibility. The successful management of health crises, including the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the resilience and adaptability of the healthcare infrastructure developed during this period.

The transformation of Bangladesh's infrastructure has been a critical pillar of Sheikh Hasina's governance. Mega projects such as the Padma Bridge, the Dhaka Metro Rail, and the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant exemplify the government's commitment to enhancing connectivity, transportation, and energy infrastructure.

Completing the Padma Bridge, a flagship infrastructure project addresses a critical transportation need and symbolises Bangladesh's engineering and project management capabilities. This bridge, connecting the southern and central parts of the country, is poised to catalyse economic development and regional connectivity.

The Dhaka Metro Rail project, a testament to visionary urban planning, aims to alleviate traffic congestion in the capital city. The government lays the foundation for more liveable and efficient urban spaces by investing in sustainable and modern transportation solutions.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Bangladesh's first foray into nuclear energy, is a landmark achievement in the quest for energy security and sustainability. This project reflects the government's commitment to diversifying the energy mix and ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply.

Bangladesh, situated in a region vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, has faced environmental challenges ranging from cyclones to river erosion. Sheikh Hasina's government has proactively addressed these challenges through a comprehensive climate change strategy. The "Delta Plan 2100" is a visionary initiative to address the long-term challenges of climate change and ensure sustainable water management. This integrated plan considers environmental, economic, and social factors, emphasising resilience and adaptability in changing climate patterns.

The government's commitment to renewable energy and green initiatives has led to implementing projects such as the Solar Home System and increased reliance on renewable energy sources. These efforts align with global sustainability goals and position Bangladesh as a responsible steward of the environment.

Sheikh Hasina's government has been instrumental in shaping Bangladesh's foreign policy and fostering constructive international relations. The principle of "friendship to all, malice to none" has guided Bangladesh's diplomatic endeavours, enhancing cooperation with neighbouring countries and global partners.

The successful resolution of longstanding border disputes with India and Myanmar exemplifies the government's commitment to regional stability through peaceful diplomacy. Economic cooperation agreements, infrastructure projects, and joint initiatives have strengthened ties with neighbouring nations, fostering an environment of mutual benefit.

On the global stage, Bangladesh has actively contributed to peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and climate change negotiations. Despite resource constraints, the country's role in hosting Rohingya refugees reflects its commitment to humanitarian values and international solidarity.

The pursuit of social justice and empowerment has been consistent throughout Sheikh Hasina's governance. Initiatives for gender equality, women's empowerment, and social inclusion have been at the forefront of the government's agenda.

The implementation of the National Women Development Policy, the establishment of women-friendly villages, and the increased representation of women in political and administrative roles indicate the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable society.

Efforts to address social disparities and uplift marginalised communities, including the indigenous population, demonstrate a commitment to leaving no one behind. Implementing the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord reflects the government's dedication to resolving long-standing issues and ensuring the rights of all citizens.

While celebrating the successes of Sheikh Hasina's government, it is crucial to acknowledge the resilience demonstrated in the face of challenges. Natural disasters, such as cyclones and floods, have tested the nation's ability to respond and recover. The government's prompt and effective disaster management strategies have minimised the impact on lives and property.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented global challenge, and Bangladesh was no exception. Sheikh Hasina's government navigated the complexities of the pandemic with a combination of proactive public health measures, economic stimulus packages, and international cooperation. The vaccination drive, covering a significant portion of the population, has been a testament to the government's commitment to public health.

As Sheikh Hasina's government marks 15 years of governance, the legacy is one of transformative leadership, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the development of Bangladesh. The achievements across economic, social, and environmental domains underscore the impact of visionary governance.

Looking forward, Bangladesh's aspirations for the future include the realisation of "Vision 2041" and continued progress towards becoming a developed and prosperous nation. Challenges such as poverty alleviation, climate change mitigation, and fostering innovation will require sustained efforts and strategic planning.

The success story of Sheikh Hasina's government from 2009 to 2023 is a narrative of a nation that has overcome challenges, embraced opportunities, and charted a course towards a brighter future. As Bangladesh continues on its journey of development, the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience established during this period will undoubtedly guide the nation towards greater heights.


Dr. Matiur Rahman is a
researcher and a
development worker.