BEFORE Awami League came to power in 2009 under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh was known to the international community as a hotbed of notorious actions of jihadists and terrorists, while global media was projecting the country as “cocoon of terror” or “next Afghanistan”. Immediately after her swearing-in ceremony, Sheikh Hasina expressed her firm determination in fighting militancy and terrorism and free the country from the evil clutches of such notorious forces, which were posing serious threats to regional and global security. During the past 14 plus years, Bangladesh, a South Asian nation with a population of over 170 million people, has made remarkable strides in countering terrorism in recent years. Despite initially facing significant challenges, the country has implemented comprehensive strategies and initiatives to address the threat of terrorism. Through a combination of strong political will, robust security measures, international cooperation, and community engagement, Bangladesh has emerged as a role model in effectively combating terrorism.

 

This article explores the key factors behind Bangladesh’s success in countering terrorism and highlights the lessons that can be learned from its experiences. One of the critical factors contributing to Bangladesh’s success in countering terrorism is the strong political will and leadership demonstrated by the secularist Awami League Government. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. This unwavering commitment has provided a clear direction and enabled the implementation of comprehensive counterterrorism measures. Bangladesh has significantly strengthened its security forces to effectively combat terrorism. The Government has invested in modernizing its law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and border control mechanisms. Improved training, capacity building, and the use of advanced technologies have enhanced the capabilities of security forces in preventing and responding to terrorist threats. The country has enacted comprehensive counterterrorism laws and implemented judicial reforms to ensure effective prosecution and punishment of terrorists. The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009 provides a legal framework to investigate, prosecute, and convict individuals involved in terrorist activities.

 

The establishment of special tribunals dedicated to handling terrorism-related cases has expedited the judicial process and increased accountability. Bangladesh has actively engaged in international cooperation to counter terrorism. It has strengthened intelligence sharing with partner countries, including neighbouring nations and global allies. Collaborative efforts have facilitated the exchange of information, identification of terrorist networks, and disruption of transnational terrorist activities. Furthermore, Bangladesh has been an active participant in regional and international forums focused on counterterrorism, contributing to collective efforts in tackling the global menace. Recognizing the importance of preventing radicalisation and extremism, Bangladesh has implemented various programs to address the root causes of terrorism. The Government has promoted moderate interpretations of Islam, encouraged interfaith dialogue, and engaged religious leaders in countering extremist ideologies. Educational institutions, community organizations, and social media platforms have been utilized to raise awareness and promote tolerance, thereby mitigating the appeal of radicalization. Bangladesh has adopted a community-centric approach to counterterrorism, emphasizing the involvement of local communities in preventing and detecting terrorist activities. The Government has established community-based programs to encourage the reporting of suspicious behaviour and the identification of potential threats.

 

Additionally, it has initiated deradicalisation programmes to reintegrate individuals involved in extremist activities back into society through education, vocational training, and psychological support. Sheikh Hasina’s tenure as Prime Minister has provided a stable and continuous leadership platform to address the issue of terrorism in Bangladesh. Her successive terms in office have allowed for the formulation and implementation of long-term strategies and policies, ensuring consistent efforts to combat terrorism. This stability has been instrumental in building trust and confidence among security agencies, international partners, and the general public. The Government has actively pursued international cooperation to address terrorism. Sheikh Hasina has fostered strong diplomatic relations and partnerships with neighbouring countries and global allies, recognizing the transnational nature of terrorist networks. Through intelligence sharing, joint training programmes, and collaboration in countering radicalisation, Bangladesh has benefited from international support in combating terrorism.