Origins and Pitfalls of Confrontational Politics in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a relatively young democracy that gained its independence in 1971. The reestablishment of parliamentary democracy in 1991 following years of military dictatorship and the introduction of a non-party caretaker government were important achievements of the country in its democratic journey. In recent years however, confrontational politics has become a serious threat to democracy and development in Bangladesh. It is no longer an internal issue; it has also become a major concern of international donors to Bangladesh and the region as a whole.