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Bangladesh Election: Gen Z Poised to Reshape Nation's Politics

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 7:31 GMT by reuters.com
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DHAKA, February 11th, 2026 - Bangladesh stands on the cusp of a potentially transformative election, one where the burgeoning Gen Z electorate is poised to significantly reshape the nation's political trajectory. With over half of the country's 170 million voters under the age of 35, and a substantial portion belonging to Generation Z (those born after 1997), the concerns of this demographic are no longer a side note but a central force driving the election narrative.

The upcoming general election isn't just a contest between established parties; it's a referendum on the future Bangladesh will offer its youth. While traditional political appeals still resonate with older voters, Gen Z is proving to be a distinctly different beast - less bound by historical allegiances and more focused on concrete improvements to their daily lives. Their primary concerns, as consistently voiced through social media, protests, and direct engagement with potential candidates, revolve around three core pillars: economic opportunity, good governance, and fundamental freedoms.

The Weight of Unemployment

For many young Bangladeshis, the most pressing issue is the lack of meaningful employment. Rafsan, a 24-year-old university graduate (having aged since the original 2026 reporting), exemplifies this frustration. "We're entering a job market that simply isn't equipped to absorb us," he states. "Degrees are becoming less valuable when companies aren't creating enough positions, and even those that exist often demand connections or bribes." This isn't simply about finding any job, but securing employment that aligns with education, skills, and aspirations. The expectation of a brighter future, once a hallmark of youth, is rapidly being eroded by the reality of limited opportunities and increasing economic precarity. The current administration has touted infrastructure projects as job creators, but critics argue these have largely benefited established businesses and failed to address the skills gap hindering youth employment.

A Cry for Accountability: Tackling Deep-Rooted Corruption

Complementing the economic anxieties is a deep-seated frustration with corruption. Bangladesh consistently ranks poorly on global corruption indices, remaining at 144th out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2023 assessment. While incremental improvements have been promised, many young voters feel that systemic corruption remains largely unchecked. Taslima, a 26-year-old activist, explains, "It's not just about the scale of the corruption, it's the impunity. We need leaders who are genuinely committed to accountability and transparency, and who will strengthen institutions designed to combat graft." The demand isn't merely for investigations into high-profile cases, but for a fundamental shift in political culture that prioritizes public service over personal enrichment. The younger generation is acutely aware of how corruption impacts access to education, healthcare, and even job opportunities, creating a cycle of disadvantage.

Demanding a Voice: Freedom of Expression and Assembly

Beyond economic and governance concerns, Gen Z is also advocating for greater political and social freedoms. In recent years, Bangladesh has seen a tightening of restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, raising concerns among human rights organizations. Naim, a 23-year-old digital artist, expresses a common sentiment: "We want a country where we can openly discuss issues, criticize policies, and protest peacefully without fear of reprisal." This desire for greater freedom is closely linked to the rise of social media, which has provided a platform for young people to share their views and organize collective action. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are not just spaces for entertainment; they are increasingly vital tools for political mobilization and civic engagement.

Social Media as a Political Battlefield

The election commission's attempts to engage young voters through digital outreach have met with mixed success. While acknowledging the importance of digital literacy programs and online voter registration, many young people remain skeptical of institutions perceived as being out of touch. Social media has become the primary battleground for winning the hearts and minds of this demographic, with candidates leveraging influencers, targeted advertising, and interactive content to reach voters. However, the proliferation of misinformation and "fake news" poses a significant challenge, requiring both media literacy initiatives and proactive fact-checking efforts.

Breaking with Tradition: A New Political Alignment?

Perhaps the most significant aspect of this election is the willingness of Gen Z to consider alternatives to the traditional political establishment. Unlike older generations who have remained loyal to established parties for decades, young voters are more open to new political movements and independent candidates. This creates both opportunities and challenges for existing political forces, who are now forced to adapt their strategies and appeal to a demographic that prioritizes authenticity, transparency, and responsiveness. The outcome of the election will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on Bangladesh's political landscape, potentially ushering in a new era of youth-driven politics and shaping the nation's future for generations to come.