In an era of unprecedented global turbulence, Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture. The existential threats facing the nation transcend political allegiances, religious identities, ethnic backgrounds, and ideological divides. Now, more than ever, national unity is not just an aspiration—it is a matter of survival. Every Bangladeshi, regardless of political affiliation or personal belief, must recognize that our sovereignty, stability, and future depend on our ability to stand together.
Geopolitical Turbulence and the Threats to Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s strategic position places it at the heart of a power struggle between global superpowers. The escalating contest between the United States and China has significant implications for the region, particularly in Myanmar and India’s northeastern states. These developments pose direct risks to Bangladesh’s security and territorial integrity.
China seeks reliable maritime access to the Bay of Bengal, positioning Myanmar as a crucial ally. Meanwhile, the United States, wary of China’s growing influence, has been engaging with various ethnic groups in Myanmar, such as the Kachin, Karen, and Chin, to counterbalance Beijing. Some geopolitical analysts speculate about the possibility of a Christian-majority state emerging from Myanmar’s Chin State and India’s Christian-dominated northeastern regions—an event that could destabilize the entire region and pose security risks to Bangladesh.
At the same time, economic coercion is an established tool in global power politics. If the United States pressures Bangladesh to distance itself from China, whether through trade restrictions or punitive tariffs on our vital ready-made garment (RMG) sector, the economic fallout could be devastating. Worse still, such economic vulnerabilities could be leveraged to force strategic concessions, including access to our coastal territories.
Economic Fragility: A Looming Crisis
Bangladesh’s economic situation is becoming increasingly precarious. Foreign exchange reserves are depleting, industrial output is stagnating, and export growth is faltering. While official figures may suggest GDP expansion, in real terms, the economy has been contracting since 2018–19. The impending transition from a Least Developed Country (LDC) to a developing nation will introduce new trade barriers, further exacerbating economic challenges.
Without economic resilience, Bangladesh will remain vulnerable to external manipulations. A fragile economy weakens our bargaining power on the global stage, diminishes our national security capabilities, and increases the likelihood of social unrest. If the economic downturn worsens, the nation could face internal strife, leaving us even more susceptible to foreign intervention.
The Internal Divide: Our Greatest Weakness
The greatest danger Bangladesh faces is not from foreign adversaries but from within. Political rivalries have become bitter feuds, with parties treating each other as enemies rather than fellow stakeholders in the nation’s future. Religious and ethnic divisions further fragment the social fabric, weakening our collective strength.
History has shown that disunited nations are easy prey for external manipulation. Across the globe, from the Middle East to Eastern Europe, internal discord has led to national disintegration. Bangladesh cannot afford to repeat these mistakes. A nation consumed by internal divisions cannot defend itself against external threats.
A Call for National Unity: A Platform for Collective Strength
In a rare and sobering address, the Chief of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces recently warned that without unity, the country’s sovereignty could be at grave risk. This is not a rhetorical flourish but a dire reality. A divided Bangladesh is a vulnerable Bangladesh.
It is time to rise above political vendettas and sectarian divides. The nation needs a common platform—a system where multiple political parties, religious communities, and ethnic groups can coexist with mutual respect and unwavering commitment to national interests. The time for factionalism must end. Whether one supports the Awami League, BNP, Jatiya Party, or any other entity; whether one is a Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or Christian; whether one identifies as Bengali, Santali, Chakma, or Marma—our survival depends on unity.
Bangladeshis must set aside short-term political gains in favor of long-term national stability. Economic revival, strategic diplomacy, and internal cohesion require a concerted effort from all. If we fail to unite, we will invite calamity—economic collapse, territorial erosion, or even foreign intervention.
Unity or Death : The Choice is Ours
Bangladesh stands at a defining moment in history. The choice before us is stark: unity or death. The time has come for us to embrace a collective national identity, prioritizing the greater good over individual or partisan interests. If we do not stand together, we will fall apart.
This is not a plea—it is a demand for survival. The time for action is now. Let us build a Bangladesh that is strong, sovereign, and unshakable. Let us forge a future where our diversity becomes our strength, not our weakness. Let us rise as one nation, indivisible, resolute, and ready to face any challenge that comes our way.
Bangladesh’s fate lies in the hands of its people. The call to unity is not optional—it is imperative. Will we unite and secure our future, or will we remain divided and invite our own downfall? The choice is ours.
