The Pulse of Bangladesh Today: How Gen Z is Shaping the Nation

 

The Pulse of Bangladesh Today: How Gen Z is Shaping the Nation

Bangladesh is currently undergoing a dynamic transformation, influenced by political shifts, cultural movements, and social activism. In this period of transition, Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) is emerging as a powerful force, shaping discussions and driving change in different spheres of life. Whether it’s literature, politics, social movements, or sports, today’s youth are making their voices heard louder than ever.

Ekushey Book Fair 2025: A Literary Hub for Gen Z

One of the most significant cultural events taking place in Bangladesh this month is the Ekushey Book Fair 2025. Held annually in February to commemorate the Language Movement of 1952, the fair has evolved into a festival of literature, creativity, and intellectual discourse. What’s remarkable this year is the increased participation of young writers, bloggers, and digital content creators.

Gen Z authors are using the fair as a platform to showcase their works, discussing topics ranging from mental health to social justice. The rise of self-published books and digital storytelling also marks a shift in how young people engage with literature. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are filled with book reviews, poetry readings, and discussions about the fair, demonstrating how this generation blends traditional culture with modern digital trends.

However, this year’s book fair has not been without controversy. A recent incident of vandalism at a stall displaying works by exiled writer Taslima Nasrin has sparked debates about freedom of expression. Many young activists have voiced concerns about censorship and the need for intellectual freedom in Bangladesh’s literary space. The controversy has led to increased security at the fair, but it has also strengthened the resolve of young Bangladeshis to advocate for artistic freedom.

Gen Z and the Political Landscape

Politics in Bangladesh has always been intense, and 2025 is no different. The country has been in a state of political transition following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. This event led to what is now being called the Gen Z Revolution, as thousands of young Bangladeshis played a crucial role in pushing for political change.

University students and young activists took to the streets in large numbers, using social media platforms to organize protests, share their demands, and expose government actions. This movement was unique in that it was driven by digital mobilization, proving how influential online activism can be in today’s world.

However, not all protests have been peaceful. At Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET), violent clashes between students and law enforcement have raised concerns about the safety of youth activists. Many students demand a politics-free education system, believing that political interference is damaging academic institutions. Despite these challenges, Gen Z remains at the forefront, pushing for greater transparency and political reforms.

Operation Devil Hunt: A Controversial Crackdown

In response to growing unrest, the interim government launched Operation Devil Hunt on February 8, 2025. This nationwide operation aims to curb violence and political instability by arresting individuals affiliated with the former ruling party. So far, hundreds of people have been detained, leading to mixed reactions from the public.

Supporters of the operation argue that it is necessary to restore order, while critics fear that it may be a tool to suppress dissent. Young people, especially student activists, are particularly affected, as many of them have been targeted due to their participation in political protests.

Gen Z’s reaction to this operation has been vocal. While some believe it is a necessary step toward stability, others see it as an attack on democracy. Social media is buzzing with debates, as young Bangladeshis express their views on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. The hashtag #StopTheHunt has been trending, with activists calling for fair trials and the protection of fundamental rights.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Cricket as a Unifying Force

Amidst political tensions, sports—especially cricket—continues to bring people together. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has kicked off, and Bangladesh’s national team is competing at an international level.

The team played their opening match against India in Dubai, a game that had millions of Bangladeshi fans glued to their screens. Though Bangladesh faced challenges on the field, the tournament has become a source of national pride, allowing Gen Z to unite under the banner of sportsmanship. Cricket remains one of the few aspects of Bangladeshi life where political differences take a backseat, creating a momentary escape from the country’s challenges.

The Role of Digital Media and Entrepreneurship

Gen Z in Bangladesh is not just engaging with politics and culture; they are also reshaping the business landscape. With the rise of freelancing, e-commerce, and content creation, young people are finding new ways to earn a living without relying on traditional jobs.

Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Daraz are enabling many young entrepreneurs to start businesses or work as freelancers. The TikTok economy is also booming, with influencers and digital marketers leveraging social media to build their brands. This shift is significant, as it reflects the generation’s adaptability and willingness to explore unconventional career paths.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gen Z in Bangladesh

As Bangladesh undergoes these transformations, Gen Z remains at the center of it all. Their involvement in political activism, cultural movements, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation highlights their role as a driving force of change.

While challenges such as censorship, political instability, and unemployment persist, the resilience and creativity of young Bangladeshis offer hope for a brighter future. Whether through literature, social activism, sports, or business, Gen Z is actively shaping the nation’s destiny—one movement at a time.