# Bangladesh

> country in South Asia

**Wikidata**: [Q902](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q902)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bangladesh

## Summary

Bangladesh is a sovereign state and parliamentary republic in South Asia, located in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent. It became independent on March 26, 1971, following a liberation war against Pakistan, and is officially known as the People's Republic of Bangladesh (গণপ্রজাতন্ত্রী বাংলাদেশ). The country borders India and Myanmar, with Dhaka as its capital and largest city, and is home to approximately 171 million people.

## Key Facts

- **Official Name:** গণপ্রজাতন্ত্রী বাংলাদেশ (People's Republic of Bangladesh)
- **Capital:** Dhaka
- **Independence:** March 26, 1971
- **Area:** 147,570 square kilometres
- **Population:** 171,466,990 (2023 estimate)
- **Official Language:** Bangla
- **Official Religion:** Islam
- **Currency:** Bangladeshi taka
- **Driving Side:** Left
- **Timezone:** UTC+06:00 (Bangladesh Standard Time)
- **International Calling Code:** +880
- **Internet TLD:** .bd, .বাংলা
- **ISO Codes:** BD (alpha-2), BGD (alpha-3), 050 (numeric)
- **Member of UN since:** September 17, 1974
- **Member of Commonwealth since:** April 18, 1972
- **GDP (PPP):** $966,485,000,000 (2021)
- **GDP per capita (PPP):** $5,811.57 (2021)
- **Human Development Index:** 0.661 (2021)
- **Literacy Rate:** 75% (2019)
- **Life Expectancy:** 74 years (2022)
- **National Anthem:** Amar Sonar Bangla
- **National Flower:** Nymphaea nouchali
- **Legislative Body:** Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament)
- **Highest Point:** Mowdok Tiang (1,054 metres)
- **Lowest Point:** Bay of Bengal (sea level)
- **Border Countries:** Myanmar, India

## FAQs

**What is the government structure of Bangladesh?**

Bangladesh is a parliamentary republic operating under the Westminster system. The President serves as the head of state, with Mohammad Shahabuddin currently holding the position since April 24, 2023. The Prime Minister serves as head of government, with Sheikh Hasina (Awami League) having served from 1996-2001 and again from 2009 until August 2024, when Muhammad Yunus became the interim head of government. The legislative body is the Jatiya Sangsad, a unicameral parliament.

**What major international organizations is Bangladesh a member of?**

Bangladesh is a member of the United Nations (since 1974), Commonwealth of Nations (since 1972), World Trade Organization (since 1995), South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (since 1974), UNESCO, WHO, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, Asian Development Bank, Interpol, and the International Telecommunication Union, among many others.

**What is Bangladesh's economic profile?**

Bangladesh has a GDP (PPP) of approximately $966 billion and a GDP per capita (PPP) of $5,811.57 as of 2021. The nominal GDP was around $460 billion in 2022. The country is known for its thriving ready-made garments industry, which is a major export earner. The currency is the Bangladeshi taka, and the country has experienced steady economic growth over the past decades.

**What are the main religions practiced in Bangladesh?**

The official religion is Islam, which is the majority faith. Other religions practiced include Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity. The country has a rich religious diversity despite Islam being the state religion.

**What is Bangladesh's demographic situation?**

Bangladesh has a population of approximately 171 million people as of 2023, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The literacy rate stands at 75% (2019), and life expectancy is approximately 74 years. The country has a young population with a median age in the mid-20s. The ethnic majority is Bengali (98% as of 2011).

**What are the administrative divisions of Bangladesh?**

Bangladesh is divided into eight administrative divisions: Dhaka Division, Chattogram Division, Khulna Division, Rajshahi Division, Barisal Division, Sylhet Division, Rangpur Division, and Mymensingh Division. These divisions are further subdivided into districts and upazilas.

**What languages are spoken in Bangladesh?**

The official language is Bangla (Bengali). English is widely used as a second language. The country also has numerous regional languages and dialects including Chittagonian, Sylheti, Rangpuri, and others. There are also several indigenous languages spoken by minority communities.

## Why It Matters

Bangladesh matters significantly on the global stage for several reasons. Despite being one of the smaller countries by land area, it is the eighth most populous nation in the world, with a population density among the highest globally. This makes it a critical player in discussions about global population, development, and climate change.

Bangladesh's economic transformation over the past five decades is remarkable. From a war-torn nation in 1971, it has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia. The ready-made garments industry has become a global powerhouse, making Bangladesh the second-largest exporter of apparel in the world. This economic success has lifted millions out of poverty and created a growing middle class.

The country is also at the forefront of climate change adaptation. Being a low-lying delta nation vulnerable to flooding and sea-level rise, Bangladesh has developed innovative solutions for disaster management, cyclone shelters, and climate-resilient agriculture. Its experiences and technologies are studied worldwide as a model for climate adaptation.

Bangladesh's political journey—from military rule to democracy, with periods of instability and democratic consolidation—provides important lessons for developing nations. Its participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations, particularly in conflict zones, demonstrates its commitment to international peace and security.

The country's cultural contributions, including literature, music, film, and cuisine, have influenced South Asia and the Bengali diaspora worldwide. The national anthem "Amar Sonar Bangla" and the literary legacy of figures like Rabindranath Tagore are integral to Bengali identity.

## Notable For

- **Population Density:** One of the most densely populated countries in the world with over 1,200 people per square kilometre
- **Garment Industry:** Second-largest ready-made garments exporter globally
- **Microfinance Pioneer:** Home to Grameen Bank, founded by Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
- **Climate Adaptation:** Global leader in climate change adaptation and disaster management techniques
- **Literacy Achievement:** Achieved significant literacy gains from around 30% at independence to 75% today
- **Cricket Success:** Rising cricket nation that has competed in multiple World Cups
- **Textile Workforce:** Over 4 million people employed in the ready-made garments sector
- **River Delta:** Home to the largest river delta in the world, the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta
- **Freedom of Expression:** Hosts a vibrant media landscape with numerous newspapers, TV channels, and digital platforms
- **Digital Connectivity:** Rapidly growing mobile phone and internet penetration

## Body

### History and Independence

Bangladesh emerged as an independent nation on March 26, 1971, following a nine-month liberation war against Pakistan. The war began on March 26, 1971, when the Pakistan military launched Operation Searchlight to suppress the Bengali independence movement. The independence was formally declared by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on March 26, 1971, and he became the first President of the country. Syed Nazrul Islam served as acting President during the war. The country officially became independent on December 16, 1971, after Pakistan's surrender.

Following independence, Bangladesh adopted its constitution on November 4, 1972, establishing the country as a parliamentary democracy. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman served as the first President until January 12, 1972, when he became Prime Minister. The early years were marked by reconstruction, famine in 1974, and political instability leading to military coups. The country experienced martial law periods and military rule before returning to democracy in the 1990s.

### Geography and Environment

Bangladesh occupies 147,570 square kilometres in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent. The country is located at coordinates 24.0167°N, 89.8667°E. It shares borders with India to the west, north, and east, and Myanmar to the southeast. The southern border is formed by the Bay of Bengal.

The country features a predominantly low-lying deltaic terrain, with the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta being the largest river delta in the world. The highest point is Mowdok Tiang at 1,054 metres above sea level, located in the southeastern hill regions. The lowest point is the Bay of Bengal at sea level, making the country extremely vulnerable to sea-level rise and flooding.

Bangladesh has seven major river systems and thousands of smaller rivers and waterways. The country experiences a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: summer (March-May), monsoon (June-October), and winter (November-February). Annual rainfall varies from 1,200mm in the west to over 4,000mm in the northeast.

The country has several protected areas, including wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared with India and serves as a habitat for the Bengal tiger.

### Administrative Structure

Bangladesh is divided into eight administrative divisions, each headed by a Divisional Commissioner. The divisions are: Dhaka Division, Chattogram Division, Khulna Division, Rajshahi Division, Barisal Division, Sylhet Division, Rangpur Division, and Mymensingh Division. These divisions are further subdivided into 64 districts (zilas), which are then divided into upazilas (sub-districts) and unions.

Dhaka Division was established in its current form, while Chattogram Division has historical significance. Barisal Division was created in 1993, Sylhet Division in 1995, Rangpur Division in 2010, and Mymensingh Division in 2015.

### Economy

Bangladesh has transformed from one of the world's poorest countries at independence to a lower-middle-income country. The GDP (purchasing power parity) was $966,485,000,000 in 2021, with a GDP per capita (PPP) of $5,811.57. Nominal GDP reached approximately $460 billion in 2022.

The economy is diversified across agriculture, industry, and services sectors. Agriculture contributes about 14% of GDP, with rice being the staple crop. The country is nearly self-sufficient in rice production. Other agricultural products include jute, tea, fish, and vegetables.

The ready-made garments (RMG) industry is the backbone of the economy, accounting for over 80% of total exports and employing over 4 million workers, predominantly women. Bangladesh is the second-largest exporter of apparel in the world after China.

The services sector, including banking, telecommunications, and retail, contributes approximately 50% of GDP. The country has seen significant growth in the telecommunications sector, with mobile phone penetration exceeding 100%.

Remittances from Bangladeshi workers abroad, particularly in the Middle East, Malaysia, and the UK, are a major source of foreign currency, averaging over $20 billion annually.

The country has made significant progress in poverty reduction, with the poverty rate declining from over 40% in the early 2000s to around 20% currently. The Gini coefficient was 32.4 in 2016, indicating moderate inequality.

### Demographics and Society

Bangladesh has a population of approximately 171 million people as of 2023, making it the eighth most populous country in the world. The population has grown from around 66 million at independence in 1971. The population growth rate has declined significantly due to successful family planning programs.

The country has a population density of over 1,200 people per square kilometre, one of the highest in the world. The median age is approximately 27 years, indicating a young population. The male population was 81,712,824 in 2022, while the female population was 83,347,206.

The urban population was 52,009,072 in 2022, while the rural population was 113,063,587, showing ongoing urbanization. Dhaka, the capital, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with a metropolitan population exceeding 20 million.

The literacy rate has improved dramatically, reaching 75% in 2019 from around 30% at independence. The country has achieved near universal primary education enrollment. Life expectancy at birth is approximately 74 years as of 2022.

The birth rate was 17.48 per 1,000 population in 2022, while the death rate was 5.296 per 1,000. The total fertility rate has declined to 2.10 in 2021, approaching replacement level.

### Culture and Identity

Bengali culture is the dominant culture of Bangladesh, with its roots in the Bengal region. The official language is Bangla (Bengali), which is the seventh most spoken language in the world. The script is derived from the Brahmi script.

The national anthem is "Amar Sonar Bangla" (My Golden Bengal), written by Rabindranath Tagore. The national flower is the Shapla (Nymphaea nouchali), and the national animal is the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Traditional Bengali cuisine includes rice, fish (particularly ilish fish), dal (lentils), and various vegetables. Pitha (rice cakes), biryani, and pani puri are popular dishes. Tea is the national beverage, with Bangladesh producing significant quantities of tea, particularly from the Sylhet region.

The country has a rich literary tradition, with Rabindranath Tagore being the most famous literary figure. Other notable writers include Kazi Nazrul Islam, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and Humayun Ahmed. The country has a vibrant film industry, often called "Dhallywood," producing hundreds of films annually.

Music in Bangladesh includes traditional folk songs, classical music, and modern pop and rock. The country has produced several internationally recognized musicians and bands. Festivals celebrated include Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), Eid, Durga Puja, and Christmas.

### Politics and Government

Bangladesh operates as a parliamentary republic under the Westminster system. The President serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister holds executive powers as the head of government. The Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) is the unicameral legislative body, with 300 elected members.

The current President is Mohammad Shahabuddin, who took office on April 24, 2023. The current Prime Minister is Muhammad Yunus, who assumed office on August 8, 2024, following Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Hasina served as Prime Minister from 1996-2001 and again from 2009 until August 2024.

The major political parties include the Bangladesh Awami League (AL), Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and Jatiya Party. The country has a history of political rivalry between the Awami League and BNP.

The judicial system is headed by the Supreme Court, with High Court and District Courts below it. The legal system is based on English common law.

### International Relations and Memberships

Bangladesh maintains diplomatic relations with countries worldwide. It is a founding member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and plays an active role in the organization. The country joined the United Nations on September 17, 1974, and has been elected to various UN bodies.

The country is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations since April 18, 1972, and joined the World Trade Organization on January 1, 1995. It is also a member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) since 1974.

Bangladesh has diplomatic relations with countries including India, China, United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and many others. The country has established embassies and high commissions in major capitals. It maintains bilateral relationships with neighboring countries India and Myanmar, including border agreements and trade relations.

The country participates in United Nations peacekeeping missions and has contributed troops to operations in various conflict zones worldwide.

### Infrastructure and Technology

Bangladesh has made significant progress in infrastructure development. The country has an extensive road network, with the Dhaka-Chittagong highway being a major artery. The railway network is operated by Bangladesh Railway, with connections to India. The country has several airports, with Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka being the main international gateway.

The country uses left-hand traffic for vehicles, with driving on the left side of the road. The railway also operates on the left side.

In telecommunications, Bangladesh has seen rapid growth in mobile phone usage, with multiple operators providing services. Internet penetration has increased significantly, though speeds remain relatively slow compared to developed nations.

The country uses Type K electrical plugs, with standard voltage of 220V at 50Hz. The emergency telephone number is 999.

### Social Indicators

Bangladesh has made significant progress in human development. The Human Development Index (HDI) was 0.661 in 2021, placing it in the medium human development category. The Inequality-adjusted HDI was 0.503 in 2021.

Life expectancy at birth has increased from around 45 years at independence to approximately 74 years currently. The infant mortality rate has declined significantly. The maternal mortality ratio has also improved substantially.

The education system includes primary, secondary, and higher education. The country has several public and private universities, including the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, and others.

Healthcare infrastructure includes hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. The country has made progress in controlling infectious diseases and improving maternal and child health.

### Religion and Diversity

Islam is the official religion, with Muslims comprising approximately 90% of the population. Hinduism is the second-largest religion, followed by Buddhism and Christianity. The country also has small communities of other faiths.

The Bengali ethnic group comprises approximately 98% of the population. There are also numerous indigenous ethnic groups in the hill districts of Chattogram Division and the northern regions.

The country practices religious tolerance, with religious festivals of all communities being celebrated. The constitution guarantees freedom of religion.

### Sports and Recreation

Cricket is the most popular sport in Bangladesh. The national cricket team has competed in multiple ICC World Cups and has achieved notable victories against established cricketing nations. Bangladesh also has a presence in football, kabaddi, and other sports.

Kabaddi, a traditional Bengali sport, has gained international recognition. The country has hosted and participated in various international sporting events.

### Natural Resources and Environment

Bangladesh has limited mineral resources but has natural gas reserves in the Bay of Bengal and onshore. The country has significant water resources from its river systems, though these are subject to pollution and competing demands.

The Sundarbans mangrove forest is a major ecological asset, providing protection from cyclones and serving as a habitat for diverse species. The country faces environmental challenges including deforestation, water pollution, and air pollution.

Bangladesh has been proactive in environmental conservation and has established numerous protected areas. The country is a signatory to various international environmental agreements.

### Media and Communications

Bangladesh has a diverse media landscape with numerous newspapers, television channels, and digital platforms. The country has both public and private media outlets. Press freedom has improved since the restoration of democracy, though concerns remain.

The country has a vibrant film industry, commonly known as "Dhallywood," producing Bengali-language films. The television industry has grown significantly with numerous private channels broadcasting news, entertainment, and educational content.

Social media usage is high, particularly among young people. The country has seen growth in digital content creation and influencer culture.

### International Recognition and Rankings

Bangladesh has achieved several international rankings and recognitions. It is classified as a developing country and has graduated from the Least Developed Countries (LDC) category. The country ranks well in various human development indicators and has been recognized for progress in gender equality and women's empowerment.

The country has been praised for its success in poverty reduction and economic growth. It has been featured in various international publications as an emerging economic powerhouse.

### Transportation

The country has multiple transportation options including buses, trains, ferries, and aircraft. The national airline is Biman Bangladesh Airlines, operating domestic and international flights. The country has airports in major cities, with Dhaka and Chittagong having international airports.

Road transport is the dominant mode of transportation, with the Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) and numerous private operators providing services. The country has a network of national highways and regional roads.

Water transport is important for internal travel, particularly in the deltaic regions. The country has several river ports and ferry services.

### Education System

The education system follows a 5-2-2-2 structure: five years of primary education, two years of junior secondary, two years of secondary, and two years of higher secondary. The country has made significant progress in achieving universal primary education.

The country has over 50 public universities and numerous private universities. Technical and vocational education has expanded significantly. The literacy rate of 75% represents significant achievement since independence.

### Healthcare

The healthcare system includes primary health centers, district hospitals, and specialized hospitals. The government provides healthcare services, though the private sector also plays a significant role.

The country has made progress in controlling diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. Maternal and child health programs have shown positive results. The country has achieved significant reductions in child mortality.

### International Trade

Bangladesh's major exports include ready-made garments, jute and jute products, frozen fish, and leather goods. Major imports include machinery, petroleum products, textiles, and food items.

The United States and European Union are major export destinations. China, India, and ASEAN countries are significant trading partners. The country has benefited from preferential trade arrangements including GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) with various countries.

### Climate Change and Environmental Policy

Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change due to its low-lying geography. The country has developed comprehensive climate adaptation strategies and is considered a global leader in climate resilience.

The country has implemented programs for cyclone shelters, flood management, and climate-resilient agriculture. It has also invested in renewable energy, particularly solar power. The government has ratified various international climate agreements and participates actively in climate negotiations.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.workwithdata.com/place/bangladesh)
2. Constitution of Bangladesh
3. [Source](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Vhn2t_PbEzo5-NDGBeoFJq4XCoSzOVKg/view)
4. The World Factbook
5. Virtual International Authority File
6. BnF authorities
7. [Source](https://data.iana.org/time-zones/tzdb-2021e/asia)
8. [Source](https://www.oic-oci.org/states/?lan=en)
9. [Interpol](https://www.interpol.int/Member-countries/World)
10. [Source](https://www.interpol.int/Who-we-are/Member-countries/Asia-South-Pacific/BANGLADESH)
11. [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons](https://www.opcw.org/about-opcw/member-states/)
12. [Source](https://www.opcw.org/about-us/member-states/bangladesh)
13. [International Hydrographic Organization](https://www.iho.int/srv1/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=452&lang=en)
14. [Source](http://www.unesco.org/eri/cp/ListeMS_Indicators.asp)
15. [Source](http://www.upu.int/en/the-upu/member-countries.html)
16. [Source](https://www.upu.int/en/Universal-Postal-Union/About-UPU/Member-Countries?csid=-1&cid=37)
17. [Source](https://www.itu.int/online/mm/scripts/gensel8)
18. [Source](https://public.wmo.int/en/members/bangladesh)
19. [Source](https://www.who.int/choice/demography/by_country/en/)
20. [Source](https://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/about-us/wco-members/list-of-members-with-membership-date.pdf)
21. [Source](https://www.ncnk.org/sites/default/files/content/resources/publications/NCNK_Issue_Brief_DPRK_Diplomatic_Relations.pdf)
22. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
23. FIPS 10-4
24. MusicBrainz
25. [Human Development Report. 2022](https://hdr.undp.org/data-center/human-development-index#/indicies/HDI)
26. World Bank Open Data
27. [World Bank Open Data](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL)
28. [World Bank Open Data](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL?locations=BD)
29. [Source](https://data.who.int/countries/050)
30. [Source](https://knoema.com/atlas/Bangladesh/topics/Poverty/Income-Inequality/GINI-index)
31. [Source](http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS)
32. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
33. Official Names of the United Nations Membership
34. [Source](https://www.skgeodesy.sk/sk/ugkk/geodezia-kartografia/standardizacia-geografickeho-nazvoslovia/nazvy-statov/)
35. The National Terminology Database for Irish
36. [Source](https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/freedom-world-2017)
37. [Source](http://chartsbin.com/view/edr)
38. [World Bank](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.MKTP.CD)
39. [Source](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.MKTP.CD)
40. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/Index.aspx?DataSetCode=DEMO_DS)
41. [Source](https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WEO/weo-database/2021/April/weo-report?c=513,&s=NGDP_R,NGDP_RPCH,NGDP,NGDPD,PPPGDP,NGDP_D,NGDPRPC,NGDPRPPPPC,NGDPPC,NGDPDPC,PPPPC,PPPSH,PPPEX,NID_NGDP,NGSD_NGDP,PCPI,PCPIPCH,PCPIE,PCPIEPCH,TM_RPCH,TMG_RPCH,TX_RPCH,TXG_RPCH,LP,GGR,GGR_NGDP,GGX,GGX_NGDP,GGXCNL,GGXCNL_NGDP,GGXONLB,GGXONLB_NGDP,GGXWDG,GGXWDG_NGDP,NGDP_FY,BCA,BCA_NGDPD,&sy=2017&ey=2024&ssm=0&scsm=1&scc=0&ssd=1&ssc=0&sic=0&sort=country&ds=.&br=1)
42. [Source](https://tapchicongthuong.vn/michael-jackson-truoc-nam-1975-duoc-phien-am-thanh-manh-khac-lac-khac-ton--va-hon-100--ten-quoc-gia--dia-danh--ca-si--dien-vien-dien-anh--doc-len-rat-la-tai-65715.htm)
43. [Source](https://trinm.wordpress.com/2010/08/22/lan-man-v%E1%BB%81-vi%E1%BB%87t-hoa-d%E1%BB%8Ba-danh-va-ten-danh-nhan/)
44. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/index.aspx?queryid=3372)
45. [World Plugs](http://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/list_bylocation.htm)
46. English as a Global Language, second edition
47. [Source](https://countrycodebase.com/undp/)
48. [Source](http://bdlaws.minlaw.gov.bd/act-367/section-24549.html)
49. [Source](https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/bangladeshi-culture/bangladeshi-culture-religion)
50. [Source](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/3/28/bangladesh-court-upholds-islam-as-religion-of-the-state)