Islamization in Bangladesh

Islamization, refers to the historical and ongoing process through which Islamic principles, values, and institutions have influenced Bangladesh's legal framework, education system, politics, and social norms. Bangladesh was founded in 1971 as a secular republic grounded in the ideals of secular Bengali nationalism,[1] successive regimes — beginning in the late 1970s — have incrementally integrated Islamic elements into the state apparatus.[citation needed]

Proponents of Islamization have argued that the post-independence government had excluded religious voice and the Islamist right.[2] They argue attempts to remove secularism are a counter-hegemonic response to decades of perceived ideological exclusion.[2]

Rooted in Bangladesh's experience as part of Muslim-majority Pakistan and shaped by broader pan-Islamist sentiments, the push for Islamization gained momentum under the military regime of Ziaur Rahman and intensified under Hussain Muhammad Ershad, who declared Islam the state religion in 1988.[3] Today, Islam continues to play a prominent role in Bangladeshi society, law, and politics, often generating debate over the balance between secularism and religious identity in the nation's governance and public life.[1]

  1. ^ a b "The Fall of Secular Bengali Nationalism". thediplomat.com. Retrieved 4 May 2025.
  2. ^ a b Rashiduzzaman, Dr Mohammad (12 February 2025). "Rewriting Bangladesh Identity: A Counter-Hegemonic Voice? – OpEd". Eurasia Review. Retrieved 4 May 2025.
  3. ^ Ahsan, Syed Badrul (24 January 2025). "Bangladesh: The slow retreat of secularism". Northeast News - Northeast India news 24×7. Retrieved 4 May 2025.

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