Introduction: The Woman Behind the Nation
Sheikh Hasina, the longest-serving Prime Minister in Bangladesh’s history, is more than a political figure—she is a national symbol of resilience, leadership, and transformation. As of 2025, her influence remains central to the country’s political landscape.You know about theglobespot, andaazdaily, openrendz and sheikh hasina news also Buzzfeed.
She continues to dominate headlines for her government’s efforts in digital development, regional diplomacy, economic reform, and political controversies. Whether you agree with her methods or not, you can’t ignore Sheikh Hasina. This in-depth article explores her current projects, global impact, challenges, and latest news.
Early Life and Political Legacy
Daughter of the Nation’s Founder
Born in 1947, Sheikh Hasina Wazed is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation. After her father and most of her family were assassinated in 1975, she lived in exile for years.
Hasina returned to Bangladesh in 1981 and took leadership of the Awami League. Her goal: to restore democracy and her father’s vision for a secular, democratic state.
Rise to Power: The Political Climb
Becoming Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina first became Prime Minister in 1996. Although her party lost the 2001 election, she made a powerful comeback in 2009, and has since been re-elected in 2014, 2018, and most recently in 2024.
Her consecutive terms have allowed for long-term policy continuity, especially in sectors like infrastructure, education, and digital technology.
Economic Growth Under Her Leadership
“Digital Bangladesh” Vision
Perhaps her most famous campaign promise was “Digital Bangladesh.” Under this banner, she transformed:
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Government services (e-governance)
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Mobile banking and financial inclusion
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Startup ecosystem growth
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Widespread internet access in rural areas
GDP and Growth Statistics
Bangladesh has consistently reported 6–8% GDP growth during her tenure (except during the pandemic). Key industries include:
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Garments and textiles
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Shipbuilding
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Agriculture tech
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Freelancing and software exports
Bangladesh is now classified as a middle-income country, with plans to achieve developed nation status by 2041.You know about theglobespot, andaazdaily, openrendz and sheikh hasina news also Buzzfeed.
Latest Developments in 2024–2025
1. Padma Bridge Economic Zones
Following the successful opening of the Padma Bridge, Sheikh Hasina announced new economic zones on both ends of the bridge. These are expected to attract FDI and create 1 million jobs.
2. Smart Bangladesh 2041 Initiative
In 2024, she launched the “Smart Bangladesh” program. This focuses on:
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AI integration
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Green energy
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Cybersecurity
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Youth digital literacy
3. Global Diplomacy
She has strengthened ties with:
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India (on trade and Teesta water sharing)
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China (infrastructure loans)
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Saudi Arabia (labor exports)
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United States (climate initiatives and security cooperation)
Controversies and Criticism
Accusations of Authoritarianism
Sheikh Hasina’s government has been accused of:
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Suppressing opposition (BNP party)
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Restricting press freedom
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Using digital laws to silence critics
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Election manipulation
The 2024 general election, though won with a landslide, was boycotted by major opposition parties, raising concerns over legitimacy.You know about theglobespot, andaazdaily, openrendz and sheikh hasina news also Buzzfeed.
Human Rights Concerns
International watchdogs like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have criticized her government for:
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Arrests of journalists
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Enforced disappearances
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Restrictions on protests
Yet, Hasina maintains that these steps are necessary for national stability and counterterrorism.
Women Empowerment and Social Programs
A Champion for Women
Hasina’s leadership has helped improve:
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Female literacy (now above 75%)
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Maternal healthcare in rural areas
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Women in politics (50 reserved parliamentary seats)
Social Welfare
Her government launched:
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“Ashrayan Project” – Free housing for 100,000 poor families
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Digital stipends for female students
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Free maternity healthcare across upazilas
These initiatives have directly reduced poverty and improved women’s participation in the workforce.
Climate Leadership
Global Advocate for Climate Resilience
As leader of one of the most climate-vulnerable nations, Hasina chairs the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF).
She is globally recognized for:
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River embankment projects
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Disaster early warning systems
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Floating schools and hospitals
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Climate-adaptive agriculture
Bangladesh’s Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan was showcased at COP28 as a model for other developing nations.
Sheikh Hasina’s Vision for Youth
Youth Digital Centers (YDCs)
Over 8,000 centers have been established across the country to help young people:
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Learn digital skills
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Access job portals
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Launch startups
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Get government services online
Freelancing Boom
Bangladesh ranks among the top 5 in the world for online freelancers. Hasina’s policies support:
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International payment gateways
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Tax rebates for IT exports
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Online certification programs
The youth play a key role in her digital economy blueprint.
Infrastructure Boom
Mega Projects Completed
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Padma Bridge
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Dhaka Metro Rail
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Matarbari Power Plant
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Rupsha Railway Bridge
These projects are funded through foreign loans, government budgets, and public-private partnerships.
Connectivity Goals
Her government aims to:
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Connect every upazila by highway by 2026
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Expand national railway lines
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Modernize airports and seaports
Sheikh Hasina and Religion
Balancing Secularism with Islamic Heritage
Hasina walks a tightrope between:
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Preserving Bangladesh’s secular constitution
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Supporting moderate Islam
She banned radical parties, cracked down on extremism, and restored Buddhist and Hindu temples destroyed in past violence.
Global Recognition
Awards and Honors
Sheikh Hasina has received:
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UN Champion of the Earth Award
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Mother of Humanity Award (from UNESCO)
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Global Women Leadership Award
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Recognition from World Economic Forum
These awards reflect her impact on climate, education, and gender equality.
Challenges Ahead
1. Inflation and Economic Pressure
Due to the global recession and rising import costs, Bangladesh faces:
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Currency depreciation
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Declining forex reserves
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Inflation nearing 10%
Hasina has vowed to curb unnecessary imports and promote local production.
2. Youth Unemployment
Despite digital growth, youth joblessness is high. Her government is:
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Promoting TVET programs
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Supporting digital freelancing
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Encouraging SME loans for youth
3. Maintaining Democracy
International pressure is growing for electoral reform, press freedom, and transparent governance. Sheikh Hasina now faces the challenge of balancing control with democratic values.
What to Expect Next: Sheikh Hasina’s 2025 Agenda
Healthcare Reform
Aiming for universal healthcare access, she plans to:
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Expand rural clinics
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Introduce national e-health cards
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Partner with telehealth platforms
Smart Villages and Green Development
The government has committed to:
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Solar microgrids
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Digital governance in villages
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Clean water and sanitation
This initiative is part of her long-term Smart Bangladesh 2041 vision.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy in the Making
Sheikh Hasina’s story is one of tragedy, transformation, and tenacity. Her legacy is complex. She has turned Bangladesh into a digital, climate-conscious, and economically growing country. But she also walks a political tightrope between control and democracy.You know about theglobespot, andaazdaily, openrendz and sheikh hasina news Buzzfeed.
As 2025 unfolds, Sheikh Hasina remains at the center of regional politics, national development, and international discussions. Whether you’re a supporter or critic, one thing is clear—Sheikh Hasina is the face of modern Bangladesh.
