Bangladesh's Struggles with Climate Issues

DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — Since its independence in 1971, Bangladesh has experienced significant political instability, marked by a series of coups and assassinations. The nation’s tumultuous history began with the assassination of President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, which was followed by two additional coups that year, ultimately leading to Ziaur Rahman seizing power. The cycle of violence continued with Rahman's assassination in 1981 and the subsequent overthrow of his successor, Abdus Sattar, by Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1982. In recent developments, the political landscape has shifted dramatically as Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power following a student-led uprising. This upheaval coincided with the release of her long-time rival, Khaleda Zia, from house arrest, signaling a potential shift in the balance of power between the two political figures who have dominated Bangladeshi politics for decades. Bangladesh, home to approximately 170 million people, is not only grappling with political challenges but also faces severe environmental and humanitarian issues. The country’s geographical location, situated north of the Bay of Bengal, makes it particularly vulnerable to natural disasters such as cyclones and monsoon flooding, which are exacerbated by its deltaic topography. The nation has a history of humanitarian crises, including a devastating famine in 1974 that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands. As Bangladesh navigates its current political upheaval, the interplay between governance and environmental challenges remains a critical concern for its future stability.