The influential London-based magazine The Economist has awarded Bangladesh the title of ‘Country of the Year 2024.’ The recognition comes as acknowledgment of the nation’s successful movement against authoritarian rule, culminating in a historic transition of power.

Announcing the award on December 19 through its official website, The Economist stated, “Our winner this year is Bangladesh, a nation that has ousted a dictator.”

Syria, which ended five decades of brutal hereditary dictatorship under Bashar al-Assad, was declared the runner-up.

In its report, The Economist highlighted the events in Bangladesh that led to this accolade. It noted that in August, a student-led protest movement resulted in the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, who had ruled the nation of 175 million people for 15 years. The magazine described how Hasina, once celebrated as the daughter of a freedom fighter, became a repressive leader. It detailed her involvement in election manipulation, the imprisonment of political opponents, and her directive to security forces to open fire on protesters.

The report also criticized her regime for large-scale financial corruption during her tenure.

Reflecting on the transition, The Economist acknowledged Bangladesh’s tumultuous history of power shifts, often marred by retaliatory violence. However, it emphasized that this recent change signals a hopeful new chapter. The interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, has gained support from students, the military, business leaders, and civil society. This administration has restored law and order and stabilized the economy.

Looking ahead, the magazine outlined critical tasks for the interim government. It must rebuild relations with neighboring India and set a timeline for elections, ensuring a neutral judiciary and providing opposition parties the space to organize.

The Economist concluded by praising Bangladesh’s achievements in toppling an authoritarian regime and paving the way for a more liberal government, awarding the country its prestigious title.