Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has reportedly had her US visa revoked and is now exploring asylum options in the UAE and European countries, following the UK’s rejection of her asylum request. Hasina fled Dhaka amidst ongoing student protests demanding her resignation over a controversial quota system for war veterans’ relatives, which escalated into violent clashes resulting in over 400 deaths.
Deteriorating Relations with the US
Hasina’s tenure saw a largely productive relationship with the US, which valued her partnership on counterterrorism and refugee issues. However, recent criticisms of her autocratic tendencies and the imposition of visa sanctions over democratic concerns have strained ties. The Biden administration labeled the recent general elections in Bangladesh as “unfair and not free” and imposed visa restrictions on Bangladeshi officials and politicians.
The US had used Bangladesh as a test case for its value-based foreign policy, advocating for human rights and democratic principles through public messaging, diplomatic meetings, and sanctions.
Economic and Strategic Importance of Bangladesh
The US views Bangladesh as a crucial part of its Indo-Pacific strategy due to its strategic location and growing economic influence. It is the largest importer of Bangladeshi goods and top source of foreign direct investment (FDI). In 2021, US companies invested $4.3 billion in Bangladesh, representing 20% of the country’s total FDI.
Human Rights Concerns and Diplomatic Tensions
The US has voiced dissatisfaction with human rights and democracy issues in Bangladesh, leading to sanctions on high-level officials over alleged human rights abuses. Despite diplomatic efforts and compliance with US sanctions, concerns about declining democratic practices in Bangladesh persist.
US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, has been critical of the human rights situation, while the Biden administration focuses on democracy and human rights as key foreign policy objectives.
Hasina’s Criticism of the US
Hasina has criticized the US for its handling of human rights issues domestically and accused it of plotting regime changes in Bangladesh. She claimed that the US is conspiring to establish an air base and a Christian state in Bangladesh and Myanmar. Protests erupted near the White House during her visit in April 2023, where she was also criticized for alleged autocratic practices and economic mismanagement.
US Support and Aid to Bangladesh
The US remains a major trading partner for Bangladesh, especially in the Ready-Made Garments sector, and is a leading investor in the country’s energy sector. US aid includes significant contributions to food security, health programs, and the Rohingya crisis. The US also donated over 100 million vaccine doses to Bangladesh, aiding its national vaccination efforts.
Ongoing Diplomatic Dynamics
The situation highlights the complex diplomatic dynamics between the US and Bangladesh, marked by strategic interests, human rights concerns, and political tensions.