The Aftermath of Bangladesh's Youth-Led Revolution: Challenges Ahead

Thu Feb 05 2026 23:22:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following the 2024 youth-led uprising that toppled Sheikh Hasina's government, Bangladesh faces a turbulent electoral landscape as Gen Z leaders grapple with fractured political alliances and the looming threat of established parties regaining power.

In an unprecedented uprising, Bangladesh's youth overcame decades of autocratic rule by Sheikh Hasina, resulting in her government's ousting amidst widespread violence. As elections approach, the newly formed National Citizen Party (NCP) struggles with internal divisions and decreased support, while established parties like Jamaat-e-Islami and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) gain traction. The inclusion of women in politics remains a significant concern, raising questions about the future of Bangladesh's democracy and the true legacy of the youth revolution.

The Aftermath of Bangladesh's Youth-Led Revolution: Challenges Ahead

In 2024, a transformative uprising led by the youth of Bangladesh resulted in the toppling of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's long-standing government, echoing the chaotic but fervent protests seen in other parts of the world. The powerful movement, fueled by the desire for political change and a demand for equality, ultimately resulted in widespread unrest leading to up to 1,400 deaths. The young leaders of this movement found themselves briefly in positions of power, but as the nation gears up for elections next week, questions linger about their ability to sustain influence in a landscape rapidly reverting to traditional power structures.

As of now, with the Awami League banned and the main opposition party, the BNP, re-establishing itself as a significant contender, the newly formed student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) faces internal strife and a lack of cohesive support. Amidst this political chaos, the plight of women within the party poses a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality; their voices often sidelined in favor of traditional male-dominated politics.

Rahat Hossain, a key figure in the protests who witnessed his friend being shot by police, epitomizes the mixed emotions of the youth caught between victory over autocracy and the disillusionment of seeing the old guard potentially regain control. As contradictions between promises of a more democratic future and the realities of political alliances emerge, Bangladesh's young activists must navigate complex legacies of the past while charting a path forward for their country.