Terrorism in Bangladesh: A Political Tool or a Real Threat?
February 15, 2025 – The issue of terrorism in Bangladesh has long been a complex interplay of political agendas, ideological extremism, and foreign influence. Recent investigations and interviews with 32 individuals accused under Bangladesh’s anti-terrorism law have exposed a troubling pattern of political victimization and state manipulation. The fall of the Awami League (AL) in August 2024, after 15 years in power, has further brought to light allegations of fabricated terrorism cases and strategic arrests.
The Political Weaponization of Terrorism
During its rule from 2009 to 2024, the Awami League government allegedly used counterterrorism laws as a political tool to justify crackdowns on opposition groups, particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Reports suggest that nearly 70 percent of those arrested on terrorism charges lacked credible evidence against them. Many claim they were targeted for political gains rather than genuine security concerns.
One interviewee recounted being secretly detained for months before being falsely presented as a “captured militant” in a staged media event. Another individual described how he was abducted, abandoned in a forest, and later framed as a militant leader. Such cases indicate a pattern of fabricating terrorism threats to strengthen political power.
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina frequently framed BNP as a supporter of terrorism, further polarizing public opinion. After the 2024 elections, she declared, “I have my accountability to the people, not to a terrorist party,” reinforcing the narrative of political suppression under the guise of counterterrorism.
Western Influence and Bangladesh’s Counterterrorism Strategy
Bangladesh’s counterterrorism policies have been heavily shaped by Western influence, particularly the U.S.-led War on Terror. Since 9/11, the United States has integrated counterterrorism frameworks into Bangladesh’s security apparatus, providing resources, training, and intelligence support.
However, this partnership has reinforced the perception of Islam as a security threat, leading to widespread criminalization of religious expression and political dissent. While the Awami League government gained diplomatic leverage and international funding by aligning with this narrative of Islamic extremism, critics argue that it failed to address the root causes of radicalization.
The Misuse of Anti-Terrorism Laws
Interviews with detainees reveal that around 20 percent of those arrested were targeted for minor activities, such as:
- Engaging with Islamic content online
- Expressing solidarity with persecuted Muslims
- Participating in religious discussions on social media
While these actions do not indicate militant intent, law enforcement agencies—under pressure to demonstrate counterterrorism successes—misinterpreted them as signs of radicalization. Such policies risk alienating communities and increasing frustration, ultimately making individuals more vulnerable to genuine extremist recruitment.
The Real Threat of Radicalization
Despite allegations of politically motivated arrests, Bangladesh does face legitimate extremist threats. Approximately 10 percent of those interviewed admitted to holding radical views, citing:
- Global conflicts and perceived Western interference
- Oppression of Muslims in various parts of the world
- Harsh domestic counterterrorism policies that breed resentment
Social media platforms have become key drivers of radicalization, allowing extremist ideologies to spread unchecked. Without a balanced approach that includes education, social integration, and economic opportunities, law enforcement alone cannot effectively counter extremism.
A Path Forward: Ethical and Effective Counterterrorism
To genuinely combat terrorism, Bangladesh must move beyond politically motivated crackdowns and adopt a holistic, rights-based counterterrorism strategy. This includes:
- Focusing on actual security threats rather than using terrorism laws as a political weapon.
- Ensuring due process and judicial oversight in counterterrorism cases.
- Addressing the grievances of marginalized communities to prevent radicalization.
- Implementing education and social programs to counter extremist narratives.
- Reducing reliance on foreign narratives and developing Bangladesh-specific counterterrorism policies.
By prioritizing justice, human rights, and community engagement, Bangladesh can develop a counterterrorism framework that is both effective and ethical, ultimately ensuring long-term stability and security.
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