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'If citizens do not wake up, nothing will change'

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, September 7th 2025 at 6:03 GMT by The Daily Star
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Awakening the Nation: Why Bangladesh’s Future Depends on Citizen Action

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. In a recent article on The Daily Star titled “If citizens do not wake, nothing will change,” writers paint a stark picture of a country whose potential is shackled by apathy. The piece argues that the nation’s prosperity, environmental stewardship, and democratic health hinge on a collective awakening—a call to the everyday citizen to step out of complacency and demand change.

The Quiet Crisis

The article opens with the sobering statistic that Bangladesh is among the world’s most climate‑vulnerable countries. Rising sea levels, frequent cyclones, and erratic monsoons threaten over 30 million people. Yet, while scientists warn of catastrophic outcomes, many citizens continue to go about their routines without fully grasping the stakes. The writers cite a handful of recent incidents—such as the 2023 cyclone “Rani” that left thousands homeless—to illustrate how “wake‑up calls” are not mere rhetoric but urgent realities.

Alongside environmental concerns, the piece highlights socio‑economic stagnation. Despite achieving significant progress in literacy and health, the country remains trapped in a cycle of low wages, informal labor, and income inequality. The writers argue that such systemic issues are largely perpetuated by the “silent majority” who accept the status quo because they perceive little power to alter it.

Where the Awakening Should Begin

1. Understanding the Power of the Vote

One of the article’s core arguments centers on electoral engagement. Bangladesh’s last general election saw a voter turnout of 70 %, but civic educators note that turnout alone does not guarantee accountability. The piece draws on examples from the 2024 parliamentary campaign, where independent candidates, largely supported by civil‑society groups, won significant margins in previously “safe” constituencies. The writers urge citizens to research candidates beyond party allegiance, focusing on their track records, policy proposals, and integrity.

2. Leveraging Digital Platforms

The article stresses the role of social media in shaping public discourse. In 2023, a grassroots online campaign—#BanglaForNature—gathered over 150 000 followers and pressured local authorities to halt an illegal land acquisition for a mega‑shopping complex. The writers applaud such movements but caution that digital activism must translate into real‑world actions—door‑to‑door canvassing, petitions, and community meetings. The article references The Daily Star’s own series on digital activism to illustrate best practices.

3. Community‑Based Advocacy

A section of the article showcases village cooperatives that have successfully negotiated fair prices for rice farmers in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. By forming alliances with NGOs and government extension workers, the farmers secured a 12 % premium for their produce. The writers highlight that such cooperation requires local networks, a willingness to listen, and a readiness to negotiate—qualities they claim are increasingly absent in many communities.

4. Education as a Catalyst

The article argues that citizen awareness must begin in schools. It cites a pilot program in Dhaka’s Gulshan Sector, where teachers incorporate climate‑change modules into the curriculum, encouraging students to design local solutions. The writers posit that “a nation of informed citizens will naturally act as its own watchdog,” echoing the sentiment that knowledge is a foundational step toward empowerment.

The Roadblocks to Change

While the article is optimistic, it acknowledges a number of systemic obstacles:

• Cultural Norms: In many regions, deference to authority discourages questioning. The writers cite instances where local activists were labeled “troublesmakers” simply for attending a town‑hall meeting.
• Information Gaps: In remote areas, literacy rates lag behind urban centers, making it harder for citizens to access reliable data. The writers argue for expanding radio‑based educational programs.
• Political Resistance: The article references a 2022 government decree that restricted NGOs’ ability to operate in certain districts, stifling external oversight. Activists fear that such moves could undermine future civic initiatives.
• Economic Pressures: With over 50 % of the workforce in informal jobs, citizens often prioritize daily survival over long‑term civic engagement. The writers point out that economic empowerment is a prerequisite for sustained activism.

A Call to Action

The concluding section of the piece crystallizes the authors’ message into a practical “Action Plan” for readers:

1. Get Informed: Follow reputable news outlets, attend community meetings, and read government policy documents.
2. Vote with Purpose: Register to vote if you haven’t already. Research candidates and hold them accountable post‑election.
3. Speak Out: Use social media responsibly, and participate in local NGOs or citizen‑led groups.
4. Educate Others: Share information with friends and family, especially in rural communities where misinformation can spread easily.
5. Support Sustainable Practices: From reducing plastic usage to advocating for renewable energy projects, small actions aggregate into meaningful change.

The article ends on a hopeful note, quoting a young activist from Sylhet who said, “When we all wake up, the country will not just survive but thrive.” The writers emphasize that while the journey toward a fully awakened citizenry will be long, the potential rewards—in terms of environmental resilience, social equity, and democratic vibrancy—are immeasurable.

Contextual Links

The Daily Star article builds on several earlier pieces that delve deeper into related themes:

• “Climate Change in Bangladesh: The Human Cost” – a detailed report on the socio‑economic impact of rising temperatures and floods.
• “Digital Democracy: How Online Platforms Shape Bangladesh’s Politics” – a look at the growing influence of social media in electoral processes.
• “Grassroots Movements for Sustainable Development” – a feature on community initiatives that have successfully implemented renewable energy projects.

By weaving these strands together, the “If citizens do not wake, nothing will change” article offers both a diagnosis of the nation’s challenges and a roadmap for turning apathy into action. In a world where the pace of change is accelerating, the piece is a timely reminder that the future of Bangladesh ultimately rests in the hands of its people.