This research examines how Bangladesh’s political transition following the fall of the Awami League regime in August 2024 has influenced opportunities for women’s leadership and the advancement of gender equality. It examines whether reform processes and new political spaces are inclusive of women and how gender justice agendas are being negotiated.
Researchers: Maheen Sultan; Sohela Nazneen, PhD; Syeda Salina Aziz; Rabeena Sultana Ananna; Masafi Mustafa Haider; Iffat Jahan Antara
Partner: International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
Timeline: January-December 2025
Status: Ongoing
Contact: Maheen Sultan; maheen.sultan@bracu.ac.bd
Context
After the overthrow of the Awami League regime in August 2024, Bangladesh is experiencing a critical political transition with an interim government aiming to restore democracy. Women, especially female students, played a vital role in the July protests, yet their presence in formal politics and reform commissions remains limited. Rising economic precarity, increased violence against women, and growing anti-feminist forces threaten progress, despite past gains in gender equality. This transition presents both opportunities and challenges for women’s leadership and gender equality agendas. Understanding these dynamics is essential to support inclusive governance and safeguard women’s rights in this evolving political landscape.
Objective
Using qualitative, longitudinal methods—including interviews, content analysis, and observatory meetings—the study will track the roles of political actors, emerging female leaders, and movement actors. The research aims to identify critical enablers and barriers to women’s political inclusion and influence in shaping a more gender-equal, democratic future.
Methodology
This study uses a qualitative, longitudinal approach to explore women’s leadership and inclusion during Bangladesh’s democratic transition. Drawing on gender and politics literature, it examines formal and informal structures, key actors, collective agency, and discourse. Data will be collected through content analysis (media, reports, social media), key informant interviews with political, student, and movement leaders, and panel interviews with emerging women leaders from diverse sectors. Additionally, an adapted observatory method will track evolving political dynamics via quarterly reflections with feminist academics, activists, and reform participants. The study builds on BIGD’s prior research on gender justice and political settlements.
Findings and Recommendations
Forthcoming.
