US-Bangladesh Relations: A History of Collaboration and Conflict
Historically, the US and Bangladesh have maintained a productive partnership, especially in areas such as counterterrorism and refugee support. The US has valued Bangladesh’s role in countering Islamist extremism and providing sanctuary to Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. However, recent criticisms have emerged regarding Hasina’s autocratic governance, leading to visa sanctions over concerns about democratic integrity.
The Biden administration has been vocal about its dissatisfaction with the Bangladeshi electoral process, labeling the country’s general elections as “unfair and not free.” The US had previously imposed visa restrictions on Bangladeshi officials and politicians in response to these concerns.
Strategic Importance and Economic Ties
Bangladesh holds strategic significance for the US as a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, situated in the Bay of Bengal. The US aims to strengthen security ties through agreements like The General Security of Military Information Agreement and the Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement.
Economically, the US is Bangladesh’s largest importer, with imports valued at $8.3 billion in 2021. US companies are the largest foreign investors in Bangladesh, contributing $4.3 billion in investments, which represents 20% of the total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country. Over the past five decades, the US has invested more than $8 billion in Bangladesh.
Human Rights Concerns and Diplomatic Strains
The US has expressed ongoing concerns about human rights and democracy in Bangladesh, leading to sanctions against high-level officials of the Rapid Action Battalion over alleged abuses. Ambassador Peter Haas has been critical of the human rights situation, emphasizing the Biden administration’s focus on democratic values.
Despite efforts by Bangladesh to address these issues, including establishing a Human Rights Cell and complying with US sanctions, concerns persist. In early 2023, US State Department Counsellor Derek Chollet highlighted the decline in democracy in Bangladesh, warning that it would impact future cooperation.
Sheikh Hasina’s Criticisms of the US
Sheikh Hasina has publicly criticized the US for its handling of human rights and democracy, drawing comparisons to violence in America and accusing Washington of plotting against her government. She has also alleged that the US seeks regime change in Bangladesh, claims that have been denied by US officials.
Protests erupted in Washington DC during Hasina’s visit in April 2023, marking the 50-year partnership between the World Bank and Bangladesh. The demonstrators criticized her government’s alleged autocratic practices and economic mismanagement.
US Programs and Aid to Bangladesh
The US is Bangladesh’s third-largest trading partner and the largest market for its Ready-Made Garments (RMG). The US also plays a major role in Bangladesh’s energy sector and provides substantial aid through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This includes crucial food security and health programs, as well as assistance related to the Rohingya crisis. Additionally, the US has donated over 100 million vaccine doses to support Bangladesh’s vaccination efforts.
As tensions between the US and Bangladesh continue to evolve, the implications for both diplomatic relations and economic collaboration remain significant.
