The word “youth” encapsulates dreams, courage, energy, and boundless potential. The future of any nation is intrinsically tied to the consciousness, sense of responsibility, and vision of its younger generation. The purer their ideals, the firmer their resolve; the stronger their resolve, the further society, culture, and the state advance. Bangladesh’s history repeatedly demonstrates that in times of struggle, it has been the youth who have stood at the forefront, dreamt of change, and worked tirelessly to realise it.
Yet, following the mass uprising of 2024, the infiltration of radical and extremist groups into university politics, coupled with their dominance in campus elections, has emerged as a direct threat to national security and the country’s collective consciousness. Incidents of cultural vandalism, attacks on liberation war memorials, suppression of theatre and other cultural expressions, assaults on folk musicians, desecration of shrines, and violence against minority communities—all point towards a dangerous trend. It raises a pressing question: are these really the youth who should carry the nation’s future?
Bangladesh achieved independence through the nine-month Liberation War of 1971, with 16 December marking the ultimate victory. Prior struggles such as the Language Movement (1952), Education Movement (1962), Six-Point Programme (1966), Mass Uprising (1969), and the 1970 elections all showcased the pivotal role of youth in shaping the nation. The 2024 mass uprising initially revived that spirit of courage and civic consciousness.
Unfortunately, some recent youth leaders have leveraged this movement to mask extremist ideologies under the guise of ordinary student activism. They have distorted history and propagated radical ideas, using religion for political gain while consolidating influence in campus elections. Attacks on liberation war symbols, suppression of progressive cultural expression, and threats against dissenting voices signal the urgent need for awareness and vigilance.
Historical Role of Bangladeshi Youth
| Year | Movement / Event | Youth Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 1952 | Language Movement | Protecting linguistic and cultural identity |
| 1962 | Education Movement | Advocating for the right to education |
| 1966 | Six-Point Programme | Raising political consciousness |
| 1969 | Mass Uprising | Paving the way for democratic reforms |
| 1971 | Liberation War | Fighting for independence |
| 1990 | Mass Uprising | Ending military dictatorship |
| 2024 | Mass Uprising | Securing civic and democratic rights |
Irresponsibility and political opportunism are fostering extremism among youth. Without accurate historical education, the next generation risks losing the essence of independence, humanity, and justice.
Youth is more than an age; it is a mindset and a force capable of transforming society, the nation, and even the world. Their energy, creativity, and courage must be directed towards national development, protecting human dignity, and upholding the core values of independence. Extremism can never extinguish the vitality of youth; with guidance and vision, the youth of Bangladesh can elevate the nation to new heights.
— Manzur Rashid Bidyut, Social Analyst, Researcher, and Policy Maker