Dhaka: Bangladesh bade farewell to 2025 standing at a crossroads expecting to lead the South Asian nation to a new political and social transition against the backdrop of renewed public expectations. The year unfolded amid post-July Uprising realities, with governance reforms, electoral preparedness, and democratic accountability dominating the national discourse.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the year heralded with youths as vocal stakeholders in shaping the nation’s future, which many describe as a demographic dividend for the country in terms of population ratio as well. This development particularly made 2025 a year of reckoning and reorientation for Bangladesh, expecting to set the tone for the path ahead.
A significant event was the demise of Begum Khaleda Zia, former prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson, on December 30. Widely respected as an ‘Uncompromising Leader’, her death drew tributes from international leaders and prompted a three-day state mourning in Bangladesh.
The signing of the “July National Charter-2025” on October 17 marked a landmark event in Bangladesh’s political history. The charter, signed after extensive consultation between political parties and the National Consensus Commission led by Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, outlined a commitment to democratic principles and national consensus.
The emergence of the National Citizen Party (NCP) on February 28, formed by students and youths who led the 2024 July Uprising, was another pivotal development. The party aims to pursue politics of national unity over division.
The political landscape was further altered by the return of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on December 25, ending his 17 years in exile. His return was met with massive public support, marking a significant shift in Bangladesh’s transitional political scene.
The year also witnessed the disbanding of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League on May 12, following an executive order and subsequent suspension by the Election Commission, and the conviction of Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal by the International Crimes Tribunal in November.
Cultural leader Sharif Osman Hadi’s death on December 18, following a fatal attack, sparked nationwide protests. His death was mourned across the country, with a state-mourning declared on December 20.
A tragic incident occurred on July 21 with the crash of a Bangladesh Air Force training jet into a school building, resulting in the deaths of at least 36 people, mostly children. This tragedy prompted public outrage and demands for justice.
An earthquake on November 21 resulted in at least 10 deaths and hundreds of injuries, causing structural damage across Dhaka and neighboring districts.
In the realm of education, central student union elections were held in major universities after long intervals, marking a significant development in student politics.
The Bangladesh women’s football team made history by qualifying for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, while the U-20 women’s team clinched the SAFF U-20 Women’s Championship, highlighting a year of sporting success.