Uncertainty grows over Bangladesh elections as reduced US involvement weakens democratic support
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): A senior US lawmaker has said that uncertainty is increasing over Bangladesh’s upcoming elections, with reduced American engagement weakening democratic support and raising concerns about political stability. He noted that this situation could have a direct impact on India’s regional security environment.
Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner, in an interview, said he is unsure whether the general elections scheduled for February 12 in Bangladesh will be free and fair. He stated that the United States’ influence on the ground has declined significantly.
Referring to the Trump administration’s decision to scale back economic development and humanitarian assistance to developing countries, Warner said that the reduction in American soft power and aid has weakened long-standing relationships. He added that expectations of change had risen after Muhammad Yunus emerged as a short-term caretaker figure, but those hopes have now faded. According to him, governance challenges persist, particularly involving the youth.
Warner also said it is unclear how much resentment exists within Bangladesh, especially as the former prime minister is believed to have taken shelter in India. This, he warned, adds to regional instability. Despite the uncertainty, he said he still hopes that Bangladesh will be able to conduct independent and fair elections.
Beyond politics, Warner pointed out that Bangladesh is facing multiple pressures, including poverty, economic stress, and environmental risks. He expressed concern over extremism but noted that Bangladesh has not seen widespread radical Islamist ideology and that isolated incidents should not define the country’s direction.
He emphasized that India operates in a challenging neighborhood, with instability in Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan posing risks to peace and security. Warner said America’s global strength has historically come not only from its military and business power but also from its long-term efforts to support development and democracy through soft power.
According to him, cuts to such programs have reduced US influence in countries like Bangladesh, especially during sensitive political transitions. He stressed that sustained international engagement is essential, as democratic institutions require long-term support rather than sporadic attention.
Developments in Bangladesh, he added, are linked to broader geopolitical competition in South Asia. Given the long shared border, strong trade ties, and concerns related to migration and regional security, stability in Bangladesh remains critically important for India.