It was an uprising that made international waves: In August 2024, Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian government fell after massive Gen Z protests swept across Bangladesh. It was the end of an era. And for many, the beginning of hope for democracy. Now Bangladesh faces elections in February 2026. But the mood in the country has become more tense, and Islamist politics is gaining strength. Women and minorities are coming under increasing pressure, and many see cultural freedom as being under threat. With the upcoming elections, the country is struggling with the crucial question: What comes next? Is Bangladesh heading for even deeper polarization, or is the long-awaited transition to democracy finally on the horizon?

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