United News of Bangladesh

Several Bangladeshi firms have partnered with Starlink to support the setup of ground-earth stations in Bangladesh. The firms have signed contracts with Starlink for collaboration, as a US telecommunications service provider team is currently visiting Bangladesh. The collaboration includes space allocation, construction support and ongoing infrastructure maintenance. The visit of the Starlink team helped Bangladeshi firms know a few locations of the former’s interest.  At some places, firms are providing support using their own properties, while at some locations, Starlink is considering the Hitech Park property. Discussions on locations and implementation details are going on, said Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser. Taiyeb hoped that Starlink would ensure reliable and high-speed internet in Bangladesh's cities and remote areas, northern regions, or coasts, free from the hassle of load shedding or natural disasters. “It will ensure uninterrupted and high-quality service. Since the coverage of telecom-grade fibre networks in Bangladesh is limited and remote areas still have problems with load shedding, Starlink will accelerate the daily activities and digital economic initiatives of our entrepreneurs, freelancers, NGOs, and SME businesspeople," he said. Starlink's entry ensures uninterrupted internet in Bangladesh: CA’s Press Secretary "We will continue to try to implement a sensible model with Starlink in the next 90 days," he added. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, in a letter to Musk on February 19, invited top US businessman and Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX Elon Musk to visit Bangladesh and launch the Starlink satellite service in the country.  The Chief Adviser told Musk his visit to Bangladesh would allow him to meet young Bangladeshi men and women who will be among the main beneficiaries of this leading technology. The Chief Adviser asked his High Representative, Dr. Khalilur Rahman, to coordinate closely with his SpaceX team to ensure completion of the necessary work to make Starlink ready for launch in Bangladesh within the next ninety working days. On February 13, the Chief Adviser held an extensive telephonic discussion with Musk, the founder of SpaceX, Tesla, and X, to explore future collaboration and to make further progress to introduce Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh.

Former US Ambassador to Bangladesh William B. Milam on Saturday highlighted that societies have the capacity to transition from autocracy to democracy, referencing his extensive writings on Bangladesh’s democratic struggles during the previous regime. Speaking at a discussion, he acknowledged the challenges of accessing reliable information while serving in a diplomatic capacity and emphasised the complexity of diplomacy in such environments. Regarding US foreign policy shifts, he remarked that the Trump administration marked a significant change in diplomatic approach, making it difficult to predict future engagements with Bangladesh. Former US diplomat Jon F Danilowicz underscored the United States’ historical relationship with Bangladesh, acknowledging past missteps, particularly during the 1971 Liberation War. He stressed the need for political accountability in Bangladesh and recognised the military's role in maintaining stability amid a sometimes fragile civil administration. Commenting on the current landscape, Danilowicz noted that Bangladesh is engaged in an ongoing information war and warned that the country is losing ground in this critical domain. He reflected on the US intervention in Bangladesh’s 1/11 political crisis in 2011, labeling it a strategic mistake. Looking ahead, he expressed hope that Bangladesh would adopt a “Bangladesh First” policy, prioritising national interests in governance and diplomacy. UNRC Gwyn Lewis calls for an end to violence, says it’s non-negotiable Danilowicz also said President Trump’s statement about the US fund to specific individuals in Bangladesh was also disinformation by the people who want to destabilize the relationship between the two countries. The Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) hosted the special discussion, titled "In Conversation with Milam & Jon, A New Dawn in Dhaka: Navigating the Dynamics of Bangladesh–US Relations After the Mass Uprising" at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) Auditorium. Zillur Rahman, Executive Director of CGS, moderated the event.  Diplomats from various foreign missions in Bangladesh, politicians, academicians, business leaders, representatives from international NGOs, civil society members, media professionals, and university students attended the event. Zillur Rahman reaffirmed the importance of initiatives that promote good governance, emphasizing that discussions like this are vital in navigating Bangladesh’s transitional political landscape. He stressed the need for continued dialogue to support the country’s democratic journey and ensure a sustainable and accountable governance framework.

UN Resident Coordinator (UNRC) in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis on Saturday shared six actions that are needed to make gender equality a lived reality in Bangladesh and called for an end to violence, stressing that this is non-negotiable. “Bangladesh has also made significant strides over the years to advance women’s rights and empowerment. However, we must be clear-eyed about the challenges,” she said while speaking at an event at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the city marking the International Women’s Day. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus honoured outstanding women with "Indomitable Women’s Award-2025" for their significant contributions to various fields as part of government initiative to pay due respect and inspire them through recognising their contributions. UNRC Lewis said women and girls continue to face significant barriers to equality, including political underrepresentation, violence, moral policing and deeply entrenched social norms. “It's completely contrary to ‘New Bangladesh’ dream”: Dr Yunus about attacks on women She said the invisiblisation of young women that were at the forefront of the Anti-Discrimination Movement in July-August has been concerning. The UNRC laid emphasis on equal decision-making power in the public and private domain, including by applying temporary special measures; freedom from poverty, decent and green jobs and the redistribution of the care burden; peace and security; climate justice to prioritise women and girls’ rights and their access to productive assets and land rights; and digital revolution, so women and girls have access to technology, financial services, markets and networks as part of six actions. “This will need a whole of society and all hands on deck approach. We in the UN stand ready to support and work closely with the government of Bangladesh and civil society partners,” Lewis said. Quoting UN Secretary General António Guterres, she said, “When the doors of equal opportunity are open for women and girls, everyone wins... When women and girls can rise, we all thrive.” The UNRC conveyed her heartfelt congratulations to the awardees and said, “Your resilience, courage, and dedication will inspire so many women and girls across the country to drive meaningful change. The world needs more role models like you as we witness a push back on women’s rights.” 2025 is a special year as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; the 25th anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security; and five years left to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Dr Yunus honours outstanding women with ‘Indomitable Women’s Award-2025’ “As we mark the 30 years of the landmark Beijing Declaration, we must celebrate the gains. The world today is more equal for women and girls than ever before. Women have fought for—and won—the right to vote, to work, to lead,” said the UNRC. She said there are more girls in school than at any time in history and more women are breaking barriers, rising to power and reshaping the world of work. “Digital activism is stirring global movements for justice. We now have stronger laws against domestic violence. A new wave of fearless, youth-led activism is rising across the world – as we also witnessed in Bangladesh last year,” she added. Lewis said the promise of equality made by world leaders to all women and girls in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was bold, historic and revolutionary. “Now in 2025 that promise is slipping away.” She said gender discrimination remains deeply embedded in all economies and societies, imposing chronic constraints on the rights and hopes of women and girls. “A woman or girl is killed every 10 minutes by a partner or member of her own family. For 20 years, the gender gap in labour force participation has remained stagnant. In just one year, the proportion of women killed in war doubled. Women and girls contribute the least to climate change—yet suffer its worst consequences,” she said. At the UN, Lewis said they believe that rights, equality and empowerment for all women and girls are achievable. “We know what must be done—and we know we can do it.” Sharifa Sultana, Halima Begum, Marina Besra, Lipi Begum, Muhin Mohona, players of Bangladesh National Women Cricket team members are among the recipients of the awards. Every girl, woman deserves to feel empowered: Tarique Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid chaired the event attended by members of the Council of Advisers, diplomats stationed in Dhaka, women leaders and senior government officials. Gitiara Nasreen, a professor of Mass Communication and Journalism, spoke as a special guest while Senior Secretary, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Mamtaj Ahmed, delivered welcome remarks. A documentary was screened at the event. A powerful and emotional cultural event was also held highlighting the July uprising.

Bangladesh and Singapore on Friday discussed ways in which the two countries could work together to further improve the end-to-end journey of prospective workers, help reduce costs and enhance transparency. Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi made a courtesy call on Singapore Minister of Manpower Dr Tan See Leng at the latter’s office in Singapore and discussed the issues. Siddiqi expressed gratitude for the professional approach to care that Singapore took towards migrant workers, as exemplified in the provision of healthcare. Dr Tan in turn expressed appreciation for migrant workers, including Bangladeshis in the construction sector, for their significant contributions to Singapore. Siddiqi updated Dr Tan, who is also Singapore’s Second Minister for Trade and Industry, on the progress in the free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between the two countries. He expressed the hope that this would lead to a wider set of skills and sectors in which Bangladeshi talent can contribute. Earlier, Special Envoy Siddiqi inaugurated a new online attestation service for IPAs at the Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore. Pakistan eager to hold foreign secretary level talks with Bangladesh to boost ties IPAs, or In-Principle Approvals, are preliminary work permits issued by the Singapore government. As part of the recruitment process, Bangladesh requires that IPAs be seen and approved by a competent officer at the Bangladesh mission. Prospective employers and their agents have long complained about the administrative burden of physically visiting the Bangladesh mission for this part of the process. With the introduction of the new online solution, this process can be completed entirely online. Siddiqi, in a meeting with some representatives of Bangladeshi workers in Singapore, committed to addressing their grievances, said the Chief Adviser's press wing. Subsequently, an inter-ministerial group, including the Secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and the Bangladesh High Commissioner in Singapore, ensured that the online solution, which was stalled for a few years, was delivered within a few weeks. “Both the Chief Advisor Professor Yunus and Advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul have identified the welfare of migrant workers as a key priority of this government,” said Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi. “We are working to improve the airport experience and passport service, monitor airfares, and generally act more responsively to their concerns. While there is a lot more work that needs to be done, it is encouraging to see some positive results,” he said.

India has laid emphasis on resolving all issues in Bangladesh through democratic means and by holding “inclusive and participatory” elections. At a media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, official spokesperson at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal said they support a “stable, peaceful, inclusive and progressive” Bangladesh in which all issues are resolved through democratic means and by holding “inclusive and participatory” elections. He expressed concerns over "deteriorating law and order situation" in Bangladesh which has been further exacerbated by the release of violent extremists who were sentenced for serious crimes. Toby Cadman asks Bangladesh to refer July massacres case to ICC, change ICT’s name Officials of Bangladesh and India held the 86th meeting of the Joint River Commission in Kolkata where they discussed the pros and cons of renewing the 30-year-old Ganges water-sharing treaty which comes up for renewal next year. Spokesperson Jaiswal said the two sides discussed technical issues pertaining to the Ganga Water Treaty, measurement of water flows and other issues of mutual interest. On violence against minorities, including Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, the MEA Spokesperson said they expect Bangladesh to thoroughly investigate and bring all perpetrators of killings, arson and violence to justice without making such distinctions.

Without urgent new funding, monthly rations must be halved to US$6 per person, down from US$12.50 per person – just as refugees prepare to observe Eid, marking the end of Ramadan, said the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) on Friday. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned of a critical funding shortfall for its emergency response operations in Bangladesh, jeopardising food assistance for over one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. All Rohingyas receive vouchers that are redeemed for their choice of food at designated retailers in the camps. To sustain full rations, WFP urgently requires US$15 million for April, and US$81 million until the end of 2025. "The Rohingya refugee crisis remains one of the world's largest and most protracted,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director in Bangladesh. UN to reduce Rohingya food aid by over half from April “Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh remain entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance for their survival. Any reduction in food assistance will push them deeper into hunger and force them to resort to desperate measures just to survive.” In recent months, new waves of Rohingya refugees, potentially exceeding 100,000 people, have crossed into Bangladesh, fleeing conflicts in neighbouring Myanmar. The continued influx of Rohingya seeking safety places an even greater strain on already overstretched resources. WFP has already begun communicating with the Rohingya community about the potential ration cuts. This coincides with the holy month of Ramadan – a sacred period for Muslims worldwide, including for the majority of the Rohingya – observed as a time for solidarity and support. “Now more than ever, the Rohingya need us to stand with them. These families have nowhere else to go, and WFP’s food aid is the difference between survival and despair. Immediate support is urgently needed to prevent this crisis from escalating further," added Scalpelli. In 2023, severe funding constraints forced WFP to reduce rations from US$12 to US$8 per person per month, leading to a sharp decline in food consumption and the worst levels of malnutrition among children since 2017 – reaching over 15 percent – above the emergency threshold. Rations were later increased when funding was received. Japan, Unicef sign $ 3.3mn deal to strengthen assistance for Rohingya children For a population with no legal status, no freedom of movement outside the camps, and no sustainable livelihood opportunities, further cuts will exacerbate protection and security risks. As in 2023, women and girls, in particular, may face heightened risks of exploitation, trafficking, prostitution, and domestic violence. Children may be pulled out of school and forced into child labour, while girls may be married off at a young age as families resort to desperate measures to survive. Refugee populations across the globe are often the first to face cuts to aid, despite being among the most vulnerable. As funding shortfalls grow and needs continue to rise, the Rohingya and many other communities are left with fewer resources to survive.

Toby Cadman, Special Adviser to the ICT Chief Prosecutor, on Thursday urged the interim government of Bangladesh to refer the cases of the July-August massacres to the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Cadman, who has extensive experience as an international criminal law specialist, having worked on Bosnia, Kosovo, Rwanda, Yemen, Syria and Ukraine, made the recommendation when he met Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. The issue of how Dhaka would involve the International Criminal Court in The Hague was also brought up and discussed in detail, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing. The discussions revolved around the potential for international cooperation and the roles and responsibilities of the court in relation to Bangladesh's quest for justice. It was noted that due to certain absconding accused being shielded by foreign states, cooperation with the International Criminal Court under the principles of complementarity is required and the two institutions should work closely together to ensure that the perpetrators are held fully accountable. Former US diplomats stress rights, responsibilities and democracy in Bangladesh The meeting started with a detailed discussion on the progress and challenges faced by the International Crimes Tribunal. The tribunal is tasked with addressing the atrocities committed during the previous regime of Sheikh Hasina, especially following the student-led uprising in July-August 2024. A number of topics were discussed concerning the applicable legal framework and the need to break from the past. Cadman, also the head of G37 Chambers, suggested amendments to the ICT legal and regulatory framework, including the important issue of changing the name of the institution "to demonstrate a clear departure from the previous autocratic regime." The issue of the death penalty and the incorporation of procedural rules of evidence to ensure the highest standards of fair trial and due process were also discussed during the meeting. Prof Yunus appreciated the work of the ICT Prosecution team, saying they must uphold the highest international standards to ensure a fair trial and justice. The Chief Adviser also said Bangladesh would soon decide whether it would refer the July atrocities to the Hague-based ICC since the UN fact-finding mission last month reported that potential crimes against humanity were committed during the uprising. "It is important that the world should know who ordered the massacres of 1,400 students, protesters, and workers during the July uprising and who were the main perpetrators. The UN fact-finding mission has done a splendid job by unmasking the real face of the (Sheikh Hasina) regime. Now we must hold the culprits to account and serve justice," he said. July uprising offers big opportunities for reforms, democracy: William B Milam The issue of providing full resources to the Tribunal and the Prosecution was discussed to ensure that witnesses are protected, the accused receive all fundamental rights necessary for fair trials, and the public has full and transparent access to the process that is aimed towards truth, justice, and lasting reconciliation. Another major point of discussion was the seizure of stolen assets by the previous regime. The attendees deliberated on the legal and procedural measures needed to recover and repatriate these assets to Bangladesh. At the end of the meeting, Professor Yunus presented Cadman a copy of the book “Art of Triumph: Graffiti of Bangladesh’s New Dawn,” symbolising the hope and resilience of the Bangladeshi people in their new era. UN rights chief calls for accountability over Bangladesh’s 2024 protest abuses

The second edition of ‘Best of Bangladesh in Europe’ will be held on April 17-18 this year at the prestigious Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam. This event will showcase Bangladesh's economic growth, industrial achievements, and investment opportunities, bringing global attention to the country's progress. Organised by Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) and powered by PDS Limited, the event is held in association with The City Bank PLC, Bangladesh, and KDS Group, with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). The Best of Bangladesh in Europe serves as a powerful showcase of Bangladesh’s remarkable economic progress, shining a light on the innovations driving the country’s industries forward. With a focus on manufacturing excellence alongside other key sectors, this platform highlights the sustainability efforts, technological advancements, and investment opportunities shaping Bangladesh’s future. Having emerged as the 37th largest economy in the world, Bangladesh’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and ambition. This event aims to foster direct connections between European entrepreneurs and private sector leaders from Bangladesh, creating a space for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and business expansion across industries. Visitors will have the chance to discover 50 leading companies across 8 industries, each presenting innovative solutions in sustainability, circularity, and transparency. Across the two days, the event will feature a grand opening ceremony, insightful panel discussions, dynamic exhibitions, and inspiring fashion shows, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Bangladesh’s evolving business landscape. The event will also feature 40+ global speakers and expects to welcome over 1,500 participants, making it a landmark platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and partnership building. Founder and CEO of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, Mostafiz Uddin, shared his vision, saying: “This event offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders and policymakers, presenting Bangladesh’s potential as a leading investment destination. Through exhibitions, networking sessions, and dynamic panel discussions, we aim to drive conversations that lead to real collaboration.” “Moreover, The Best of Bangladesh in Europe offers European consumers a chance to experience quality products and the inspiring narratives of 'Made in Bangladesh' that remain largely unknown.” And “This is your chance to meet like-minded individuals, find partners, and explore investment opportunities in Bangladesh. Let’s come together and create something truly extraordinary.” The two-day event will feature five insightful panel discussions, covering the following topics: 1: Bangladesh: Overarching Economic Growth and Investment Opportunities, Panel Discussion 2: Bangladesh into Future: A Global Sourcing Hub, Panel Discussion 3: Bangladesh into Future: Empowering Workers, Driving Innovation, Panel Discussion 4: Bangladesh into Future: Getting Agriculture Right & Panel Discussion 5: Bangladesh into Future: Unlocking Digital Potential. We are excited to showcase an impressive lineup of exhibitors at our upcoming event, including industry leaders such as 4A Yarn Dyeing Ltd, Brain Station 23, BJIT Group, Bondstein Technologies Ltd, City Bank PLC, Bangladesh, Centrotex Ltd, Cyclo, Delmas Apparels Pvt Ltd. Designer Fashion Ltd. Fakir Group, KDS Group, Knit Asia Ltd, Leatherina Pvt Ltd, Mapped In Bangladesh (MiB), Nourish Feeds Limited, Noize Jeans, Paddock's Jeans, Pacific Jeans Ltd, PDS Limited, Pacific Knitex Ltd. Paragon Group, Reverse Resource, Rising Group, Shin Shin Apparels Ltd, Shangu Tex Ltd. Turjo Tex Ltd, Tarango.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has been invited by Holy See Pope Francis to attend the World Meeting on Human Fraternity in Vatican City on September 12-13, 2025. The invitation was personally delivered by Father Francesco Occhetta, General Secretary of the Vatican’s Fondazione Fratelli Tutti, who met Professor Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Thursday. CA Dr Yunus extends Ramadan greetings to all During the meeting, Occhetta expressed high regard for the Nobel Laureate’s global influence, telling him, “You are a top leader; you’re a sensational figure.” The World Meeting on Human Fraternity is set to be a historic gathering, bringing together world leaders, dignitaries, and thinkers to shape a future based on unity, peace, and social justice. Central to the event will be the drafting of the Tables of Humanity, a foundational document outlining universal principles for peaceful coexistence and defining a New Human Charter inspired by Pope Francis’s vision for a more inclusive and compassionate world. Dr Yunus calls for making int'l conference on Rohingya crisis a big success A grand gathering is expected at St. Peter’s Square, marking one of the largest events. The program will also feature a global concert, discussions, and symbolic multimedia presentations reaffirming the principles of human fraternity. Occhetta informed Professor Yunus that notable world leaders, will be present. During their discussion, Professor Yunus enquired about Pope Francis’s well-being and conveyed his greetings, remarking, “He is a wonderful human.” In response, Occhetta emphasised the Foundation appreciation for Bangladesh, stating, “We didn’t come here just to invite you, but also to show our support, care, and love for Bangladesh.” Professor Yunus thanked Occhetta for the invitation and expressed his anticipation for the event, saying, “I’m looking forward to it.” The Vatican’s recognition of Professor Yunus’s Three Zero Principles—zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions—underscores his transformative leadership and commitment to fostering a just and sustainable world..  

Two former US diplomats at a discussion in Dhaka have highlighted the importance of the right to freedom, protection of human rights and democracy, noting that rights come with responsibilities. They said that this is an exciting time in Bangladesh and they want to be part of that with their further contribution as they are devoted actually to human rights and democracy in Bangladesh through their US-based Right to Freedom (R2F), a human rights advocacy organisation dedicated to defending democracy. Ambassador William B Milam, a former US diplomat and specialist in South Asia and West Africa, who served as US Ambassador to Bangladesh and Pakistan; and Jon F. Danilowicz, a retired Department of State senior foreign service officer with extensive experience in South Asia, spoke as the discussion chaired and conducted by President of Cosmos Foundation and renowned scholar-diplomat and former Advisor on Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Caretaker Government Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury. Cosmos Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Bangladeshi conglomerate Cosmos Group, in partnership with the Right to Freedom hosted the session titled “The Role of Human Rights Groups: Before and After July Revolution” on Wednesday evening. Dhaka Courier's Executive Editor Shayan S Khan and Research Associate of Cosmos Foundation and Bay of Bengal Institute Md Umran Chowdhury spoke as discussants. Cosmos Group Deputy Managing Director Masud Jamil Khan delivered welcome remarks.  Dr Iftekhar said a decade and half of predatory politics had snuffed out all the elements of right to speak freely, think freely, and which was swept away by a torrential tidal wave of public protest, which is called the monsoon revolution. The foreign affairs expert said Bangladesh will need to navigate, oftentimes, with the greatest circumspection through rough seas and even troubled waters. “Our polity, that is Bangladesh polity, will need to design the kind of institution it sees as best suited to give fruition to our national goals and aspirations,” he said. The foreign affairs expert said democracy, human rights and pluralism are values that provide the bedrock of their civic existence. “And there is no doubt that a nation with Professor Mohammed Yunus at the helm will make the best endeavours to evolve a consensual approach, as he says, to its perceived national self-interest,” Dr Iftekhar said. He said the path can be long and arduous. We all know that we have a hill to climb and waiting will not make it any smaller.