The Sundarbans doesn’t make survival easy—not for the tigers that stalk their tangled mangroves, not for the rivers that rewrite its shores with every monsoon, and certainly not for the people who call this wilderness home. But there’s a raw, stubborn beauty in that struggle. This is where Bangladesh’s last tigers hold on, and where, for decades, ordinary people have done extraordinary things to keep their roar alive. Take 2013: twenty strangers including Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh Svend Olling, his son, students, entrepreneurs—piled onto cycle rickshaws and pedaled 400 kilometers from Teknaf, the southernmost tip of the country. It was arranged by WildTeam. Their mission? To drag the tiger’s plight into the spotlight. The roads were merciless, the heat suffocating, but something unexpected kept them going. Kids sprinting beside them, shouting ‘Shabash’ (hurrah’)! Fishermen waving from muddy riverbanks. Strangers pressing cups of ‘chaa’ (tea) into their hands. By the time they reached Joymoni, near Mongla at the edge of the Sundarbans, they weren’t just exhausted, they were changed. Twelve years later, today history echoed—this time on two wheels. Charge D'Affaires of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Bangladesh Andre Carstens, his son, Carstens Jacobus Hermanus, and two of his Dutch friends Niels van den Berge and Jongman Karin from Barishal to TigerHouse at Joymoni, near Mongla, WildTeam’s conservation hub deep in tiger country. This is the same place where the rickshaw challengers ended their journey. No fanfare, no big team—just four riders with a simple goal: to feel the land beneath them. They’d biked Bangladesh before, but this was different. Past the brick kilns and rice paddies, past the villages where tigers still slip into backyards, they were tracing a thread between people and wilderness. As Ambassador Carstens and his 29-year-old son cycled toward TigerHouse, Niels’s two-year-old son, Sam, eagerly awaited their arrival with his mother, Sampa, and his grandparents. The young boy’s excitement added a heartwarming touch to the adventure.  

As the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 begins, the world is at the tipping point of profound geopolitical and economic transformations. The growing disparities between Western governments and the inefficacy of governance are now a global core debate; most Global South nations are now focusing on developing interdependent regional cooperation. The shift in dynamics is indicative of the Global South taking an increasingly influential position that works to realize the vision of a group of states that are intent on creating their own path of modernization and development. The Global South presents a hopeful atmosphere in Asia by leading the way in establishing a path for sustainable economic growth. Over the years, the BFA has established itself as a leading platform for dialogue on global issues, ranging from trade and finance to technology, climate action and sustainable development. As a global platform for countries of the region to build cooperation, mutual trust and forge solutions of common benefit to the wider Global South, the forum is the first of its kind. The rise of China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and other emerging economies continues, highlighting the Global South's increasing impact on shaping a future world with a global power balance. Meanwhile, Europe and the U.S. are beset by growing political turmoil, and the Middle East struggles with instability; nations in Asia engage in increasingly constructive dialogue on shared interests, such as China-Japan-South Korea trilateral talks. These efforts highlight the potential of regional cooperation to surpass old divisions and build new paths forward. The rapid economic growth of Global South countries demonstrates that the Global South is not merely a passive player but an active participant in the global economy. These nations are uniquely positioned to drive innovation and modernization by developing strategies suited to their specific conditions while responding to the worldwide demand for progress. The Global South's economic rise is no longer a prediction; it's a fact. Today (as of 2023), these nations alone account for 42 percent of the world's GDP, and this figure has been steadily increasing as emerging economies declined and significant Asian economies grew. Emerging markets, of which many in the Global South, including the powerhouses of China, Brazil and South Africa, now account for over 50 percent of global GDP in 2024. Over the last two decades, more than 1 billion people in developing countries have been lifted out of extreme poverty, a testament to the Global South’s capacity for transformation. Yet, this momentum must be harnessed strategically to bridge the North-South divide. During the past decade, the Asian region has undergone a profound transformation across multiple sectors, amplifying the Global South's potential, out of which decentralized supply chains have emerged, linking landlocked nations from East Asia to Central Asia and Europe via expanding rail networks, such as the China-Europe Railway Express, which has grown to connect more than 220 cities across 25 European countries since its inception. Simultaneously, the East-West sea routes have seen significant development with the rise of major ports like Hambantota in Sri Lanka, Gwadar in Pakistan, new facilities in Chittagong Port in Bangladesh and Tuas Maga Port in Singapore. In India, new greenfield ports are built with associated infrastructure, such as railway lines through the Sagarmala project and the National Maritime Development Program, which emphasize Asian growth. These developments not only enhance connectivity for landlocked states like Nepal and Central Asian nations but also position Asia as a hub for global commerce, building an antifragile trade system with an alternative towards uniform East-West shipping routes. However, modernization for the Global South cannot be a rerun of the models used in previous decades. The future course must suit these regional nations' unique opportunities and challenges. As Chinese President Xi Jinping underlined at the 2023 BFA, the future of the Global South must be based on values that advance peace, security and collaboration. In tackling security issues, his six pledges under the Global Security Initiative emphasize the significance of inclusiveness, peaceful dispute resolution, sovereignty respect, and comprehensive and cooperative security. These ideas are essential for maintaining political stability and creating an atmosphere that supports economic development and advancement. In particular, the digital transformation presents vast opportunities for the Global South nations to overcome traditional development stages. Countries like China, India and Vietnam are already making strides in technology and digital infrastructure, which can accelerate their economic and social development. At the same time, fostering innovation in green technologies and sustainable industries will help the Global South nations meet the challenges of climate change while ensuring future prosperity.   Yasiru Ranaraja, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a researcher on maritime affairs and expert on Belt and Road Initiative development. He is also the founding director of the Belt Road Initiative Sri Lanka (BRISL), an international development organization and think tank in Sri Lanka.

As Bangladesh posthumously bestows the Independence Award on Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, it recognises a legacy that helped build Bangladesh after 1971. While Abed Bhai is widely remembered for BRAC’s contributions to poverty alleviation and general development focused on the poor, his involvement in the 1970 Bhola Cyclone relief work and the Liberation War of 1971 is less discussed. They show a person whose moral vision went beyond the limits of conventional social work and entered the realm of imagining the possibilities for those who had lost much but had the strength to fight back. I recently interviewed Dr Martha Chen and Dr Lincoln Chen, who shared their memories of Abed Bhai with us on those two events. Dr Martha Chen worked with BRAC in the 1970s, working with women to exit poverty in villages and urban settlements, while Dr Lincoln Chen represented the Ford Foundation in India and Bangladesh from 1973 to 1987. In 2008, he became the Chair of the Board of BRAC USA. We excerpt: A Defining Moment in Bhola “Abed Bhai’s transformation began in the aftermath of the devastating Bhola Cyclone of November 1970. At the time, he was a high-ranking executive at Shell Oil, leading a comfortable life in Chattogram. However, when the cyclone claimed half a million lives, he could not remain a passive witness. Mobilising friends and colleagues, he turned his garage into a relief hub, a foreshadowing of the extraordinary institutional leader he would become later.” “This was no ordinary relief effort. Abed Bhai and his team, working through the newly formed Health, Education and Livelihood Programme (HELP), coordinated international aid and orchestrated complex relief operations. Supplies arrived via German helicopters, and seaplanes dropped emergency goods.” What set him apart was his ability to swiftly organise, strategise and execute, ensuring that aid reached the most vulnerable. He was not merely providing relief; he was redefining how disaster response could be structured. “Yet his humanitarian instinct was not just about logistics — it was about dignity. He understood that beyond food and shelter, survivors needed agency in rebuilding their lives. This philosophy would later become BRAC’s guiding principle: empowering people rather than imposing solutions.” The War that Forged a Revolutionary Mind “If the cyclone stirred his conscience, the war solidified his commitment to a greater cause. The brutality of Operation Searchlight on 25 March 1971 left Dhaka and its people reeling. For Abed, staying neutral was never an option. Working from Chattogram, he played a crucial role in supporting the resistance.” “His contributions extended beyond strategy and support. In London, he mobilised resources, mortgaged his own home, and even arranged funding for mercenaries to sabotage Pakistani supply lines — a lesser-known yet telling example of his ability to think beyond conventional resistance.“ “His actions were neither random nor impulsive; they stemmed from a deep understanding of structural organisation. This meticulous attention to planning would later define BRAC’s success in rebuilding a war-torn nation.” The Birth of a Lifelong Mission “When Bangladesh emerged independent, Abed Bhai did not return to the corporate world. Instead, he chose the remote village of Shalla, where returning refugees arrived with nothing but despair. There, he realised that rehabilitation was not enough. The cycle of poverty had to be broken, not merely patched over.” “From those beginnings, BRAC was born — not as a conventional charity but as an institution pioneering social enterprises, microfinance, education, and healthcare, all grounded in self-sufficiency.“ “His model was radical: rather than simply dispensing aid, BRAC would teach people to sustain themselves. He was not just a social worker; he was an architect of change.” Beyond Philanthropy: A Master of Systemic Change “What set Abed Bhai apart was his unwavering pragmatism. His philosophy was simple: if a solution works, scale it. If it does not, discard it. He refused to be swayed by ideology or sentiment.” “This was evident in one of his boldest initiatives — taking Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) nationwide despite initial scepticism. Instead of relying on traditional pilot projects, he deployed an army of health workers to teach mothers how to save their children from dehydration. The result? A staggering reduction in child mortality rates, proving that empowerment, not dependency, was the key to sustainable change.” The Visionary, not the Complacent “For Abed Bhai, no achievement was ever final. His ability to constantly evolve set him apart. He moved from rehabilitation to development, from microfinance to social enterprises, from national impact to global reach. Whether launching Aarong to empower artisans, creating BRAC Bank to revolutionise financial inclusion, or pioneering digital finance through bKash, he remained ahead of his time.” “His journey was not just about building institutions; it was about proving that the poorest of the poor could be at the centre of economic growth. He did not just uplift individuals; he reshaped entire systems.” A Legacy Beyond Recognition As Bangladesh honours Sir Fazle Hasan Abed with the Independence Award, it is not merely acknowledging his contributions; it is recognising a philosophy that transformed lives. In remembering Abed Bhai, we do not just celebrate what he did — we remind ourselves of what is possible when vision meets execution. The award is recognition of that vision. Professor Afsan Chowdhury is a journalist, historian and development specialist. He is also the Editor-at-Large of Dhaka Courier and UNB

I was in deep sleep in the middle of the night, when the call came with the shocking news of my dear friend Arefin’s passing away. A few days earlier I had heard Arefin fell ill while trying to draw some money at an ATM booth at Dhaka Club. He was immediately rushed to the ICU at BIRDEM. His only daughter Propa reached out to me in Singapore and asked if I could help contact some hospitals to see if they would be able to treat her father. She shared the case report & I consulted NUH (National University Hospital), Neurosurgery department. Propa at my request shared Arefin’s ongoing prescriptions. Doctors at NUH were concerned whether the patient could travel from Dhaka due to his existing health condition. I got the following text from Propa the following day: “Thank you so much, Enayet uncle. This means a lot. Unfortunately, after hearing back from multiple international hospitals that I had reached out to, it seemed there really wasn’t much hope. I think deep down, we knew this, but we just needed to make sure we explored every possible option for our own peace of mind and to know that we did everything we could for him.” The situation was unfolding very fast, I could feel that. My memories with Arefin had been flooding me ever since I heard he was admitted to BIRDEM. We were class friends at Dhaka University’s Department of Mass Communication and Journalism (MCJ). We obtained our Master’ degrees together and joined as lecturers at the MCJ department at Dhaka University on the same day in 1980. We were also born just one day apart - Arefin on 26 October 1953, me a day later. I left teaching to start Dhaka Courier, the weekly magazine and subsequently founded United News of Bangladesh (UNB), the news agency. Arefin was very helpful in building a bridge between the MCJ department of Dhaka University and our two institutions Dhaka Courier & UNB. Many students continue to join our staff as interns or cubs while still completing their studies. Apart from the graduates who join the reporting staff. Later I spent some time as a part-time teacher and often was assigned the duty to be an external examiner. I always found it a breath of fresh air, whenever I had the chance to share notes, a conversation, or meetings, with Arefin. I spent much of my formative years on the Dhaka University campus, as my father, following voluntary retirement from Pakistan Govt. service in Karachi as Chief of the Education Planning Commission, took up the job of Controller of Examinations at Dhaka University. I used to visit the residence of the vice chancellor of Dhaka University along with my parents when Dr M.O. Ghani was the vice chancellor in the 60s. My visit to the same residence took place in 2010 almost 50 years later when Arefin took over as the vice chancellor. I remember how affectionately Arefin and his lovely wife received me. I went around the spacious lawn and the beautiful heritage building on Fuller Road, before rounding up the visit with the customary nice conversation and dinner. After Arefin retired as vice chancellor, I met him a few times when he was chairman of our National Museum. His last visit to UNB was as our guest of honour during our annual District Correspondents’ Conference. I consider it my good fortune to have known Arefin as a dear and trusted friend. We shared many moments of joy and pain. I will always remember his ready, soothing smile.  I bid you goodbye my friend, remembering your smiling face. Stay well till then, to borrow a phrase from another dear friend Afsan Chowdhury, we will meet again in Celestial space.   Enayetullah Khan, Editor-in-Chief United News of Bangladesh (UNB) and Dhaka Courier.

Almost half of the world’s population consists of women.  The United Nations rightly addressed women’s contributions to climate resilience on March 8, 2023, to celebrate Women’s Day. Any conservation activity is almost impossible if women are left out. In developing countries, women make up half of the agricultural labor force. According to the UN, if women have the same access as men, yield in agriculture increases by 20 to 30 percent, which may reduce world hunger by 12 to 17 percent. Women are good organizers in the community as well as mobilizing, which can lead a community towards climate resilience.  However, the UN claims that communities can get more output (especially in resilience and capacity building) when women are included in the planning. Women have a strong social conscience and excellent communication skills and they are considered the first responders in communities worldwide during natural disasters. Unfortunately, climate change affects everyone but not equally across the world. Women and children are more affected by the impact of climate change than men due to their types of daily work, engagements, health, and hygiene issues. Due to poverty, social structure, and cultural norms, women have to work more and sometimes in an unhealthy environment with their comparatively heavy dresses than men. Climate change is a cross-border issue and Bangladesh is responsible for only 0.47 percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Unfortunately, the wrath of climate change has severely impacted the country, and Bangladesh has ranked as the 7th disaster-prone country in the world. From 2000 to 2019 Bangladesh incurred a loss of approximately $3.72 billion. According to Germanwatch, Bangladesh incurs an annual loss of nearly $300 million due to extreme climate events. However, all the losses cannot be counted by the economic indicators. Climate Change has engulfed the country’s sustainable development by destroying agriculture, the infrastructure of the community people, their other income sources like cattle and poultry farms, business points, and academic, cultural, and social institutions; that induced poverty, internal migration, unemployment, child marriage, illiteracy, polygamy and many more. The social losses sometimes go out of count. As women are mainly responsible for housekeeping, caring for dependents, sometimes caring for their wards, and supporting their spouses in agriculture and other farming, they have to face more suffering.   They are suffering disproportionately in every case, mentioned above, due to multiple reasons. Climate change has a significant impact on women's reproductive and sexual health, especially in coastal areas. Some studies have outlined that saline intrusion and waterlogging as the main reasons for these health hazards. Nonetheless of many social and cultural barriers to women from society, women are engaged in climate resilience activities in the coastal areas. For instance, hydroponics training received by the women from Khulna, are growing crops without soil in flooded or drenched areas which has added income sources not only for the women but also for the jobless men of the community. For health services, several NGOs are working in the climate-sensitive areas for sexual and reproductive healthcare. International organizations like Pathfinder have developed innovative approaches to help the Bangladesh Government meet the Universal Health Target by 2030 (SDG target 3.8). Trained women are leading these services year-round and even during disasters which is inspiring for others. Women-led organizations have been established and promoted climate adaptive livelihoods like crab farming in the Deluti Union in Paikgachha under Khulna District, which has not opened a new opportunity for the women but for the poverty-leaden community by the support of PKSF, WorldFish under the project RHL (Resilient Homestead and Livelihoods Supports to the Vulnerable Coastal People of Bangladesh).  This initiative has not only been limited to Deluti but it will be expanded to other parts of the coastal area, creating a value chain and foreign investment to make the crab industry on a large scale for the global market.   The Sustainable Forests and Livelihoods (SUFAL) project, run by the Forest Department, and supported by the World Bank and Bangladesh Government jointly, works for the empowerment of the community people through collaborative forest management (CFM), through their direct participation, and shifting their livelihoods from forest dependency to smart agriculture, poultry, livestock, small business, etc., by training and financial support. The total beneficiaries are 41,000 from 615 Forest Conservation Village (FCV) of the country under 15 forest divisions with 3 forest ecosystems where more than 60 percent are women. All the committees and subcommittees are dominated by women members, who are more active in all FCV activities. However, the SUFAL project increased the capacity building of the community members through several pieces of training, skills development, AIGA (alternative income generating activities), and social safeguard training, which has helped the community to be resilient socially and economically. The women, who were forest-dependent, and lagged in the poverty-laden society, are now involved in income-generating activities like duck and hen rearing, vegetable cultivation by adopting special techniques (hydroponics, bag gardening, floating agriculture), goat rearing, beef fattening, small businesses such as tailoring, and small groceries. Once the unfortunate women from remote small islands like Char Nizam, Dhalchar, and Char Jahirudding, Char Patila of Bhola district are socially empowered and in a better condition. They can solely bear the expenses of education for their wards and save. They have empowered themselves in the society. Nurjahan, a duck woman who was forest-dependent from Kukri-Mukri, can earn around twenty thousand per month with the training and financial support of the Forest Department through SUFAL. Many women like her have changed their livelihoods and increased their income. As they are also the earning members of the family, they are economically self-dependent, and gender-based violence (GBV), and social subjugation of women have been reduced significantly. Sustainable Forests and Livelihoods (SUFAL) aims to reduce the dependency of poor people who enter forests for resource collection and livelihoods. Through CIP (community identification of the poor), the Forest Department selected around 55-65 people with the help of partner NGOs for a Forest Conservation Village (FCV). After the final selection,6 different committees viz. CFMC (Collaborative Forest Management Committee), VCSC (Village Credit and Savings Committee), FAC (Finance and Accounts Committee), SAC (Social Audit Committee), PC (Purchasing Committee), and finally, FPCC (Forest Protection and Conservation Committee) in a FCV. In each committee, women’s share is as much as men's. For example, the VCSC committee has 3 men and 3 women. After the committee's formation, many trainings, such as capacity building, skills development, hands-on, database, social safeguards, and environment, were conducted. By skills development training, community members have chosen their trade and learned skills. With soft loan support from the Forest Department, they are well enough with their income. All information regarding FCV members like their training, meetings, loan support, etc. are available in a smart database for the best use of monitoring. Forest dependency was detrimental to both the community and the forest department. The existence of forests became a challenge due to the increasing demand for inadequate resources in Bangladesh. For climate resilience, forests are the key resource to fight against natural disasters like tropical cyclones. SUFAL project has rightly addressed the necessity of the community people and ensured the maximum participation of women, which resulted in an inclusive movement for the country's climate resilience. The writer is Ph.D Researcher in Climate Change, MDS, MSS, MBA

Yesterday, at the WildTeam Conservation Biology Centre in Joymoni, Mongla, Sundarbans, I stood before a group of 49 bright-eyed schoolchildren gathered for the annual TigerScouts Camp, organised by WildTeam under the aegis of IUCN’s Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme (ITHCP), supported by German Cooperation and KfW Development Bank.  Their faces, alight with curiosity and hope, reflected the spirit of a generation ready to take on the mantle of environmental stewardship. These young minds had come together not just to learn but to embrace their role as future guardians of our planet. As I began my presentation on climate change and its impact on the Sundarbans, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of optimism. Here, in this room, were the seeds of change—the next generation of conservationists ready to tackle one of the greatest challenges of our time. For 30 minutes, I took them on a journey through the intricacies of Earth’s climate, explaining how human activities are altering the delicate balance of our planet. I spoke of rising sea levels, intensifying storms, and the slow but steady encroachment of saltwater in and around the Sundarbans—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. I painted a picture of how these changes are not just abstract concepts but real threats to the animals, ecosystems, and communities that call the Sundarbans home. The Royal Bengal Tiger, the mangrove forests, and the millions of people who depend on this unique ecosystem are all at risk. Science behind climate change impacts To help the TigerScouts understand the complexity of climate change, I shared insights from my Master’s research, which included a detailed diagram illustrating its direct and indirect impacts. The diagram showed how even small changes in temperature and precipitation can have cascading effects on natural systems. For instance, species with narrow tolerances to environmental changes may experience disruptions in their behavior, such as altered breeding or migration patterns, leading to mismatches in ecological timing. These changes can reduce the quality and suitability of habitats, fragment ecosystems, and force species to migrate or face extirpation. Interspecific dependencies, where species rely on one another for survival, can also be disrupted, causing ripple effects throughout the food web. Barriers to migration, whether natural or human-made, further exacerbate these challenges, leaving species trapped in increasingly inhospitable environments. At the same time, human activities such as increased water extraction, land use changes, and migration intensify these pressures, leading to heightened human-wildlife conflicts. However, the diagram also highlighted mitigation approaches, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation), restoring forests, and transitioning to renewable energy. Adaptation strategies, like building coastal defences and promoting ecosystem-based solutions, were also emphasised as critical tools for resilience.

The Sundarbans, nestled between India and Bangladesh, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. My recent trip to the Bangladesh Sundarbans with my family and friends was nothing short of a life-changing experience. This extraordinary place isn’t just a forest; it’s a world teeming with vibrant life and an incredible example of human-nature coexistence. What I saw, learned, and experienced there will stay with me forever. We started our trip from Dhaka, and it took us just over five hours to reach the ‘TigerHouse’ at WildTeam Conservation Biology Centre, Joymoni, near Mongla, Bagerhat. There, we were warmly welcomed by Dr Md Anwarul Islam, CEO of WildTeam. The Museum of the TigerHouse featured many taxidermies and preserved specimens of different animals from around the Sundarbans. After a short break and refreshment, the Village Tiger Response Team (VTRT) also demonstrated how they protect the villagers from tiger attacks when tigers stray into the village.   When it comes to saving tigers and conserving wildlife around the Sundarbans these local volunteers are real heroes. They have dedicated their lives to this noble cause. For me, listening to their stories and seeing their courage up close was incredibly humbling. They in a way embody the delicate balance between humans and wildlife that defines the Sundarbans. We met the BaghBandhus – the friends of tigers and the TigerScouts and listened to how they are involved in tiger conservation in the Sundarbans.  It was not easy to engage the local communities in tiger conservation when their dear ones were taken over by tigers.  The next morning, we went on a boating excursion through the network of waterways that crisscrossed the Sundarbans. The beautiful sunrise and the morning lifestyle of the villagers contrasted with the constant hustle and bustle of city life. Professor Anwar guided us throughout the trip and gave us a lot of information about the humongous mangrove forest. I was astonished by the variety of flora and fauna and their different ways of survival instincts. There were a lot of ‘Sundari’ trees that are in fact the alveoli of the Sundarbans, which are like the lungs of Bangladesh and the broader South Asia region.  The mangrove trees can reach incredible heights and have been providing the community with resources for daily living. However, the Sundari trees have been affected by an unknown top-dying disease, which made this plant species globally threatened.  We took a stop at the Harbaria Ecotourism Center, which was located at the heart of the Sundarbans. The forest rangers showed us around the park and provided us with various information about the wildlife in the Sundarbans.  The fresh pugmarks of tigers, calls of red jungle fowl and the crested serpent eagle and a variety of breathing roots attracted me most.  It was a new experience to see how some of the mangrove species take oxygen through their breathing roots, the pneumatophores.  From the moment I stepped into the Sundarbans, I was surrounded by nature's wonders. One of my most memorable moments was watching a pair of Brahminy Kites glide effortlessly above the dense mangroves.

One year ago, as we looked toward 2024, our garment exports were a remarkable $47 billion. We were optimistic, setting our sights on reaching $50 billion in exports. However, discrepancies in export data led to substantial shifts in our calculations and projections. When we received the revised figures, we found that our garment exports from January to November 2024 had decreased to $34.71 billion, though this figure was still 6% higher than the revised numbers for 2023. As 2023 ended, we faced a climate filled with uncertainty. Challenges such as minimum wage protests and factory shutdowns in October 2023 loomed large. In response to these issues, we made the tough decision to raise the minimum wage by 56%, effective December 2023. While this was a difficult but necessary step for our industry, we held onto the hope that it would improve working conditions and that, with buyers' support, increased productivity and enhanced value addition, we could navigate these turbulent waters.  The beginning of the new year brought its own challenges as we implemented the new wage structure, all while uncertainty surrounded the 12th National Election. This climate directly impacted our investments and growth trajectories, leading to a modest growth rate of only 1.45% in January.  February turned out to be particularly challenging; just a month after the national elections, we encountered a drastic 60% reduction in export incentives. This sudden decision, made without adequate consultation or preparation, plunged our already struggling industry into a deeper crisis.  On top of these domestic issues, global conflicts, economic instability, and fluctuations in the oil market exerted continuous pressure on buyers and consumers throughout 2024. Although inflation began to decline towards the end of the year, reduced purchasing power affected buyers' ability to purchase fashion items in the international marketplace. The UNCTAD forecasted a 5% decline in global garment trade by the end of 2024, resulting in a continuous drop in the unit price of our garments throughout the year, despite expectations that rising wages would positively influence pricing.  Alongside wages, other production costs surged due to increasing prices for gas, electricity, and transportation, coupled with rising bank interest rates, which now hover between 14% and 15%. Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) faced significant losses, leading to closures across the industry throughout the year.  During these challenges, the July Revolution instilled hope for our nation, yet the industry and economy paid a heavy price. The unrest that began in mid-July, paired with a nationwide internet blackout, disrupted critical marketing activities for winter and Christmas sales. Supply chains and production schedules were thrown into turmoil, forcing the diversion of many confirmed orders to other countries. As a result, our July exports saw only a modest increase of 2.89% compared to July 2023, which marked a decline of 1.55% compared to July 2022. August 2024 fared slightly better, with exports rising 7.20% compared to August 2023, but still dropping by 6.88% compared to the same month in 2022.  As September, October, and November rolled in, we encountered additional challenges, including labor unrest, factory closures, security concerns, and banking crises. These issues severely disrupted supply chains tarnished the industry’s reputation, and eroded buyer trust. Nevertheless, we continued our efforts to normalize production and shipping schedules. Thankfully, we experienced significant growth in exports during these months, particularly buoyed by an extraordinary rebound in apparel imports from the EU and USA, which jumped by over 20% in October.  Overall, our garment exports from January to November 2024 grew by 6.23% compared to the same period in 2023, but this still represented a decrease of 7.17% compared to the same timeframe in 2022. While this reflects satisfactory year-over-year growth, it is not significant enough considering the industry's capacity. Thus, 2024 has proven to be a year rife with crises and challenges. However, I remain hopeful that 2025 will usher in a revival for the global garment trade and improve our export performance.  Despite the hurdles faced throughout 2024, we have successfully sustained our commitment to industrial sustainability. In 2023, 24 garment factories earned USGBC LEED certification. This number grew to 26 factories in 2024, with 16 receiving platinum and 10 achieving gold certification. In total, we now boast 232 green factories, showcasing our dedication to sustainable growth.  Looking ahead, I believe we have the potential for qualitative changes as we diversify our product lines and explore new markets. Significant investments in activewear and non-cotton products are emerging within the industry. Nevertheless, the ongoing crisis in sustainable energy has hindered new investments, causing previous investors to struggle. We are nearing the finish line for graduating from LDC status, with only two years left. This raises an important question: how well have we prepared to tackle the impact of this transition? Throughout 2024, various events have hindered our ability to achieve the desired momentum in business and investment. Currently, we find ourselves falling short in crucial investments and preparations needed to confront the challenges that accompany our graduation from LDC status. If the graduation timetable proceeds as planned, our economy may encounter significant hurdles. While I am optimistic that 2025 will mark a significant comeback for the global economy and our apparel business, I sincerely hope our nation overcomes the ongoing crises, particularly the challenges within the banking and financial sectors. Achieving sustainable improvements in industrial relations and establishing stable political and economic reforms are essential for restoring our confidence as we dedicate ourselves to the immediate future. I truly believe that these improvements will take shape in 2025. Mohiuddin Rubel is a former director of  BGMEA . The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author.

As I reflect on my journey in ornithology and natural history, I should share the profound impact that Dr. Salim Ali, the Birdman of India, had on my life. It was a remarkable privilege to work under his guidance as his last student, a privilege I cherish deeply. I first came to know Dr. Ali through my Dhaka University teacher, Dr. Ali Reza Khan, who was his first Bangladeshi student.  In 1982, at the age of 86, Dr. Ali, at the recommendation of Dr Khan, agreed to accept me as his PhD student, a gesture that marked the beginning of an incredible mentorship. His initial letter to me, while somewhat hesitant, showed his willingness to support my project proposal on a comparative study of laughing thrushes in the Himalayas and the Western Ghats in India. I remember feeling both honored and intimidated by the opportunity. Dr. Ali was not just a mentor; he was a hands-on supervisor, eagerly awaiting my field reports every month. He made it a point to visit my field stations, bringing with him a big basket of mangoes, which added a personal touch to our professional relationship. I can still recall the day I accompanied him to Kalona, near Nainital in the Himalayas, in March 1983, when I was able to study four species of laughing thrushes. As we trekked through the hills, his passion for nature was palpable, extending beyond birds to include butterflies, wildflowers, and the serene landscapes around us. Despite his age, Dr. Ali was vibrant and engaged. I remember how he would call me at 5 am from his stay at the Royal Bombay Yacht Club to discuss my studies. I often arrived on time, but he was always already at work, driven by his insatiable curiosity and dedication. These early morning discussions were a blend of learning and laughter, often punctuated by his love for cold coffee and the mangoes he generously shared. One of the qualities I admired most about Dr. Ali was his humility. He accepted new ideas gracefully, even when they challenged his long-held beliefs. During our fieldwork, I discovered that the laughing thrushes in southern Indian hills often lived in pairs, contrary to his assumption that they were gregarious. When I presented my findings, he visited my study areas, evaluated the evidence, and, once convinced, embraced my conclusions without hesitation. Dr. Ali’s commitment to bird conservation extended beyond research. He believed deeply in the ecological importance of birds, arguing compellingly that their role in controlling insect populations was vital for sustaining plant life and, ultimately, all animal life, including humans. His passion for conservation resonated with influential figures like Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, who recognized his dedication to preserving India’s natural heritage. Throughout our time together, Dr. Ali shared not just his knowledge, but also his life experiences. He often spoke fondly of his wife, Tehmina, who played an essential role in his success. I remember him reflecting on how she adapted to life in the forests, supporting him tirelessly during challenging times. This tribute to his partner underscored the importance of support and companionship in achieving one’s goals. Dr. Ali’s sense of humor was another cherished aspect of our interactions. On his 86th birthday, surrounded by friends in Borivali National Park, later re-named Sanjay Gandhi National Park, in Bombay, he playfully requested extra candles on his cake, ensuring that no one would doubt his age. His laughter was contagious, and his anecdotes often left us in stitches, even when he was addressing serious topics.

Against all odds, Donald Trump has been re-elected as President. The result surprised many, but even more so was the scale of his victory. Trump secured higher vote counts in nearly every county across almost every state, leaving Democratic strategists scrambling to understand what went wrong. One factor is clear: the ruling Democrats couldn’t escape the negative impact of the post-COVID economy on lower and middle-income Americans. Despite promises and repeated warnings about Trump, Democrats failed to reassure voters. Desperate for change, Americans turned to a leader they felt was firm in his commitments. This shift echoes a global trend, as we’ve seen "strongman" leaders rising in countries unsettled by post-COVID economic and social upheaval. Kamala’s Candidacy While Kamala Harris bears some responsibility, it’s unfair to place all the blame on her. She had only three months to campaign after stepping in for Biden, whose approval rating had dipped to 40% with 70% of Americans feeling the country was on the wrong track. Tied closely to Biden’s administration, she couldn’t separate herself from its failures. Kamala emphasized abortion rights, an issue that had energized Democrats in recent elections. However, by 2024, economic concerns had overtaken abortion as the primary voter issue. Her focus on Trump’s dangers also fell flat; for a decade, people have heard enough about Trump to form their own conclusions. Immigration Beyond the economy, immigration remains a key concern across the voter spectrum. Trump’s hardline stance resonated deeply, especially with voters who worry about the impact of uncontrolled immigration on America’s identity and security. He painted a picture of the country as a “dustbin” where dangerous outsiders find refuge. Surprisingly, this rhetoric gained support among some Hispanic voters, many of whom saw additional immigration as a threat to their own jobs and safety. This appeal also extended to African-Americans. Traditionally Democratic, some African-American voters were drawn to Trump’s promises of strong leadership and law enforcement. In communities burdened by crime and poverty, some felt that Democrats’ promises had delivered little change. At a rally two weeks before the election, conservative radio host Tucker Carlson called Trump a “strict father.” Many cheered. Carlson argued that for African-American and Hispanic communities, which he claimed lack “responsible father figures,” Trump represented a strong hand to restore order. Instead of backlash, chants of “Daddy’s home” erupted. Middle East Kamala’s ambiguous stance on Israeli attacks in Gaza and Lebanon hurt her campaign. Biden’s administration offered unconditional support for Israel, alienating Arab, Muslim, South Asian, and progressive American voters. Jewish voters in swing states, meanwhile, saw her as too lenient toward Palestinians. The Elitist Democratic Party The election underscored that the Democratic coalition forged in Obama’s era has splintered. Once grounded in working-class and African-American support, the Democratic Party is now seen by many as an “elitist” entity, primarily focused on issues like transgender rights and abortion over economic survival. Voters looking to address immediate concerns felt overlooked by the party. Bangladeshi-American Voters Even some Bangladeshi-Americans, despite Trump’s tough stance on immigration, supported him—many hoping his relationship with Modi would benefit them. Ironically, Trump’s vow to deport 12 million “illegal” immigrants, even using military force, puts one in three Bangladeshi-Americans at risk, including those with U.S.-born children. Trump supporters may soon face hard questions. When their neighbors and relatives are deported, and families are torn apart, will they feel a pang of responsibility? When children are left behind, will they still believe their vote was justified?