Bangladesh's Tech-Savvy Youth Seek Change as Election Looms

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 'Digital Bangladesh' project aims to woo young voters amid concerns over corruption and digital security.

Bangladesh is heading into another general election on January 7, with signs of a generational shift as young, tech-savvy voters seek change.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is trying to appeal to these voters with her government's 'Digital Bangladesh' project, promising a 'smart Bangladesh' by 2041 and 15 million new jobs for young people by 2030.
Despite the government's efforts, many young voters express frustration with corruption and bureaucracy, and some warn they may prefer to migrate to other countries because of better opportunities.
The previous two general elections were marred by allegations of vote rigging and intimidation, which authorities denied. Hasina, seeking a fourth consecutive term, pledges a free and fair election.
The expansion of digital infrastructure in Bangladesh has come with concerns over the Digital Security Act and its recent replacement, the Cyber Security Act, which critics say have been used to suppress dissent and freedom of speech.