Restoring democracy requires a free, fair, and inclusive election that rebuilds public trust, restores political legitimacy, and breaks the cycle of repression.

Recent arrests in Bangladesh have targeted prominent critics, former officials, university professors, activists, and grassroots leaders, often under anti-terror laws or charges of sabotage, even when their activities are peaceful or symbolic.

Figures such as Mahila Awami League leader Nahida Noor Sweety, opposition leaders, intellectuals, and journalists have been targeted, indicating an effort to suppress civil discourse and opposition voices.

There has been a surge in arbitrary arrests of individuals supporting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, including peaceful protesters and symbolic acts of dissent, which are now criminalized under accusations of sabotage or threats to national security.

Experts warn that unless Bangladesh holds free, fair, and inclusive elections, the country risks further sliding into authoritarianism, erasing the prospects for democracy.

The political environment has become increasingly repressive, with the regime consolidating control by incapacitating youth, women leaders, and intellectuals to prevent political mobilization and deepen societal polarization.

A pervasive climate of fear has taken hold, leading to widespread self-censorship and a retreat from political engagement among citizens, which further erodes democratic principles.

Since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2025, Bangladesh has experienced increasing political unrest under the interim administration led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, with escalating arrests and a lack of clear plans for elections.

The interim government initially promised a swift return to democracy but has instead intensified surveillance, suppression, and silencing of dissent, with no definitive timeline for elections.

These repressive measures have led to a culture of fear, societal fragmentation, and international criticism, weakening Bangladesh’s democratic legitimacy and stability.

The systematic arrests aim to silence dissent and erase political pluralism, increasing polarization and democratic decline, with authorities detaining individuals for expressing political views or participating in protests.

The regime employs widespread surveillance, preemptive detention, and criminalization of civil and political activities, targeting youth networks, women leaders, and policy forums, effectively eliminating safe spaces for free expression.

Authorities have jailed student leaders and activists affiliated with banned political groups, further dismantling opposition structures.