Shows
AKTIFULদুই পরাশক্তির মাঝে বাংলাদেশ: ভারত-পাকিস্তান সংঘর্ষ ও আমাদের অবস্থান | জন ড্যানিলোভিচএই পর্বে আমরা আলোচনা করছি ঢাকা কুরিয়ারে প্রকাশিত জন ড্যানিলোভিচের কলামের আলোকে—ভারত ও পাকিস্তানের চলমান উত্তেজনার মাঝে বাংলাদেশ কীভাবে নিজের কূটনৈতিক ভারসাম্য বজায় রাখছে। কাশ্মীরে সাম্প্রতিক সন্ত্রাসী হামলার পরিপ্রেক্ষিতে এই সংঘাতের প্রতিক্রিয়া কেমন এবং বাংলাদেশের ভূমিকাই বা কী হওয়া উচিত, তা বিশ্লেষণ করা হয়েছে। সঙ্গে থাকছে পত্রিকাটির অন্যান্য বিভাগ—সংবাদ, রাজনীতি, ব্যবসা, সংস্কৃতি ও প্রযুক্তি নিয়ে সংক্ষিপ্ত পরিচিতি।2025-05-0907 min
AKTIFULThe Spirit of Many: Rethinking Bangladesh’s July UprisingIn this episode, we explore the social media storm surrounding Bangladesh’s recent July-August uprising. As journalists and activists share personal accounts of the movement, tensions rise over claims of individual credit. But was this truly the work of a few? The featured essay argues otherwise—highlighting the uprising's core values of pluralism, collective spirit, and generational change. We unpack why preserving this autonomous momentum matters more than spotlighting any single voice, and how ego-driven narratives could weaken a movement that was never meant to belong to one.2025-05-0909 minAKTIFULভারত-পাকিস্তান পারমাণবিক যুদ্ধের পরিস্থিতি ২০২৫যুক্তরাষ্ট্র-ভিত্তিক এক গবেষণায় বলা হয়েছে, কাশ্মীর সংকটকে কেন্দ্র করে ২০২৫ সালে ভারত ও পাকিস্তানের মধ্যে পারমাণবিক যুদ্ধ হতে পারে, যার ফলস্বরূপ ১২ কোটি ৫০ লাখ মানুষের তাৎক্ষণিক প্রাণহানি এবং আরও বহু কোটি মানুষের অনাহারে মৃত্যু হতে পারে জলবায়ুর ওপর বিরূপ প্রভাবের কারণে। গবেষণাটিতে যুদ্ধের বিভিন্ন সম্ভাব্য দৃশ্যকল্প তৈরি করা হয়েছে, তবে কিছু বিশেষজ্ঞ এটিকে কাল্পনিক হিসেবে দেখছেন, যদিও পারমাণবিক যুদ্ধের সম্ভাবনাকে কেউই উড়িয়ে দিচ্ছেন না, কারণ উভয় দেশই তাদের পারমাণবিক অস্ত্রের মজুদ এবং সক্ষমতা বৃদ্ধি করে চলেছে। কাশ্মীর ছাড়াও সন্ত্রাসবাদ এবং পানি বন্টনও যুদ্ধের সম্ভাব্য কারণ হিসেবে বিবেচিত হচ্ছে, এবং বিশেষজ্ঞরা বলছেন যে পরমাণু শক্তিধর যেকোনো দেশের মধ্যে অথবা পরমাণু শক্তিধর দেশ কর্তৃক শক্তিবিহীন দেশেও যুদ্ধ শুরু হতে পারে।2025-05-0807 minAKTIFULRohingya Crisis: Reality and ProspectsThis episode features a group discussion, primarily in Bengali, focusing on the complex and ongoing Rohingya crisis in Myanmar, particularly in the Rakhine (formerly Arakan) region. Participants, including individuals residing in Rohingya refugee camps and those with knowledge of the situation, analyze the historical context of the conflict, including ethnic tensions and discriminatory laws, and discuss the political calculations of regional and international players like China, India, and the United States. They explore the roles of various armed groups, including the Arakan Army and different Rohingya factions, and debate the challenges and potential strategies for achieving a resolution, including...2025-05-0717 minAKTIFULArt, Activism, and Institution Building in BangladeshThis episode presents an excerpt from a podcast episode featuring Dr. Shahidul Alam, an internationally acclaimed photographer, writer, human rights activist, and educator from Bangladesh. Hosted by Dr. Farhana Sultana, the conversation explores Alam's journey into photography and his use of the medium for advocacy and education, particularly through institutions he founded like Drik Picture Library, Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, and Chobi Mela International Photography Festival. The discussion highlights how art can be a tool for political change and challenges Western hegemony in visual storytelling by emphasizing local representation and training marginalized communities. Alam also reflects on his...2025-05-0712 minAKTIFULবাংলাদেশে শিল্প, সক্রিয়তা এবং প্রতিষ্ঠান গঠনএই পডকাস্টটি শাহেদুল আলম, একজন আন্তর্জাতিক খ্যাতিসম্পন্ন বাংলাদেশী আলোকচিত্রী, লেখক এবং মানবাধিকার কর্মী, এবং ডঃ ফারহানা সুলতানার, সিরাকিউজ বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়ের একজন অধ্যাপকের মধ্যকার কথোপকথনের অংশবিশেষ। কথোপকথনটি বাংলাদেশের জনগণের অধিকার রক্ষা ও গণতন্ত্র পুনরুদ্ধারে শিল্প ও সক্রিয়তার ভূমিকা, বিশেষ করে আলোকচিত্রের মাধ্যমে, অন্বেষণ করে। ডঃ আলম তার প্রতিষ্ঠিত দৃক পিকচার লাইব্রেরি, পাঠশালা সাউথ এশিয়ান মিডিয়া ইনস্টিটিউট, এবং ছবিমেলা আন্তর্জাতিক ফটোগ্রাফি ফেস্টিভ্যাল সহ প্রতিষ্ঠানগুলি কীভাবে অধিকার বঞ্চিতদের কণ্ঠস্বরকে শক্তিশালী করে এবং দক্ষিণ গোলার্ধের দৃষ্টিভঙ্গি তুলে ধরে, সেই বিষয়ে আলোচনা করেন। কথোপকথনে জলবায়ু পরিবর্তন এবং যুব নেতৃত্ব সহ সমসাময়িক বিষয়গুলিও উঠে আসে, যা সামাজিক পরিবর্তন এবং জবাবদিহিতার জন্য শিল্প, শিক্ষা এবং সংস্কৃতির গুরুত্বের উপর জোর দেয়।2025-05-0706 minAKTIFULরোহিঙ্গা সংকট: বাস্তবতা ও সম্ভাবনাএই উৎসটি মূলত রোহিঙ্গা পরিস্থিতি নিয়ে আলোচনা করা একটি সভার অডিও রেকর্ডিংয়ের অংশবিশেষ। বক্তারা আরাকান রাজ্যের ইতিহাস, মিয়ানমারের রাজনৈতিক পরিস্থিতি, রোহিঙ্গা জাতিগোষ্ঠীর দুর্দশা এবং বিভিন্ন সশস্ত্র গোষ্ঠীর ভূমিকা নিয়ে কথা বলেছেন। তারা রোহিঙ্গা ক্যাম্পে বর্তমান পরিস্থিতি, আন্তর্জাতিক সহায়তা এবং বিভিন্ন দেশ ও সংস্থার স্বার্থ নিয়েও আলোচনা করেছেন। বক্তারা রোহিঙ্গাদের অধিকার প্রতিষ্ঠা ও তাদের সমস্যার সমাধানে বাংলাদেশি জনগণের সহানুভূতি ও সহযোগিতা কামনা করেছেন এবং এ বিষয়ে সচেতনতা বৃদ্ধি ও কার্যকর পদক্ষেপ গ্রহণের গুরুত্ব তুলে ধরেছেন।2025-05-0707 min
AKTIFUL🇧🇩 বাংলাদেশ: আত্মপরিচয় ও অস্তিত্বের সংকটThis episode analyzes excerpts from a YouTube video featuring a discussion between host Taj Hashmi and guest Rezaul Karim Roni, focusing on Bangladesh's current situation and future prospects. The conversation touches upon Bangladesh's dual crises of identity and existence, suggesting that the nation struggles with defining itself amidst competing influences and ensuring its survival in a complex geopolitical landscape. They discuss the historical roots of these issues, particularly the lingering effects of past colonial rule and external cultural dominance. Furthermore, the speakers address the recent political changes and the need for a more unified and capable nation, including the...2025-05-0309 minAKTIFULBangladesh's Path: Reform or Reshuffle?This episode analyzes an interview with Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of the interim government in Bangladesh, conducted by Al Jazeera English. Yunus discusses the recent collapse of Sheikh Hasina's rule and the establishment of the interim government, which he describes as a "second liberation" for the country due to widespread corruption and misgovernance. He outlines the government's focus on reforming institutions and holding a free and fair election by mid-2025 at the latest, emphasizing the importance of building consensus among political parties. The conversation also touches on external pressures, including the presence of Sheikh Hasina in India and...2025-04-2916 minAKTIFUL🇧🇩 Bangladesh's Path: Reform or Reshuffle?This episode analyzes the video interview of Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of the interim government in Bangladesh, conducted by Al Jazeera English. Yunus discusses the recent collapse of Sheikh Hasina's rule and the establishment of the interim government, which he describes as a "second liberation" for the country due to widespread corruption and misgovernance. He outlines the government's focus on reforming institutions and holding a free and fair election by mid-2025 at the latest, emphasizing the importance of building consensus among political parties. The conversation also touches on external pressures, including the presence of Sheikh Hasina in India...2025-04-2916 minAKTIFULBurma Act, Bangladesh, China, and Regional PoliciesThis epiosode broadly examines the impact of the U.S. Burma Act on regional dynamics, particularly focusing on its implications for Bangladesh and its relationship with China. Several articles analyze the specific provisions and potential effectiveness of the Act, including its influence on the repatriation of Rohingya refugees. Additionally, the texts highlight China's prominent role in Myanmar's internal conflict and its strategic position in the region, while also noting China's significance as a major trading partner for Bangladesh. The discussions also touch upon the potential for the Burma Act to exacerbate or mitigate regional tensions, with some sources presenting...2025-04-2910 minAKTIFUL🌍 Burma Act, Bangladesh, China, and Regional PoliciesThese sources broadly examine the impact of the U.S. Burma Act on regional dynamics, particularly focusing on its implications for Bangladesh and its relationship with China. Several articles analyze the specific provisions and potential effectiveness of the Act, including its influence on the repatriation of Rohingya refugees. Additionally, the texts highlight China's prominent role in Myanmar's internal conflict and its strategic position in the region, while also noting China's significance as a major trading partner for Bangladesh. The discussions also touch upon the potential for the Burma Act to exacerbate or mitigate regional tensions, with some sources presenting...2025-04-2900 minAKTIFUL🗣️ Bangladesh Foreign Policy: Indo-Pacific Dynamics and Strategic ConsiderationsThis episode presents a discussion on Bangladesh's geopolitical landscape. The conversation analyzes the shifts in its foreign policy, particularly concerning its relationship with India under different administrations. Concerns about India's influence and potential exploitation of Bangladesh's strategic location are voiced. The speakers explore alternative alliances, focusing on balancing relationships with global powers like the US and China, emphasizing economic benefits. Strategies for strengthening Bangladesh's defense and reducing dependence on any single nation are also examined, alongside perspectives on internal political dynamics and external actors' roles.2025-04-2715 min
AKTIFUL🗣️ Banning Awami League: Perspectives on Justice and BangladeshAn audio recording of a discussion hosted on social media platform X, featuring Duke Huda as the primary guest, centers on the proposition of banning the Awami League political party in Bangladesh. Huda, brother of deceased Major Bazlul Huda, a key figure in the August 15th 1975 coup, recounts his brother's controversial arrest and death, alleging it was a politically motivated murder orchestrated by Sheikh Hasina. Participants voice strong anti-Awami League sentiments, citing historical events and perceived injustices, including the implementation and upholding of the Indemnity Ordinance and the current constitution. The conversation explores the necessity of banning the Awami...2025-04-2328 minAKTIFUL📰 India and Bangladesh: Shifting Power DynamicsThis article from the South Asia Journal critiques the strained relationship between India and Pakistan, tracing its roots to colonial-era divisions and ongoing distrust between Hindu and Muslim communities. The author contends that India's current political climate fosters hatred towards Muslims, exemplified by biased media like the film "Chhabba." Furthermore, the piece examines the shift in India's focus towards Bangladesh following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, accusing India of meddling in its neighbor's affairs under the guise of protecting minorities. The author celebrates the emergence of a more self-respecting Bangladesh under Dr. Yunus, which has dared to question...2025-04-2213 minAKTIFUL🌱 Muhammad Yunus on Poverty, Social Business, and YouthThis episode presents Professor Muhammad Yunus's vision for addressing global poverty and inequality through innovative approaches like microfinance and social business. Yunus advocates for a shift from traditional profit-maximizing businesses to social businesses, which are designed to solve social problems while remaining financially sustainable, with profits reinvested rather than distributed to owners. He criticizes existing economic systems and institutions, including conventional banking and traditional aid models, for failing to adequately serve the poor and exacerbating wealth concentration. The episode highlight Yunus's belief in the inherent entrepreneurial spirit of all people, particularly the youth, urging them to become job creators...2025-04-2013 minAKTIFUL🤥 Bangladesh Disinformation: Hindutva, Politics, and Media ResponsesMultiple sources address the significant issue of misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the context of Bangladesh's political landscape and beyond. One report highlights how online Hindutva groups have employed fabricated content and manipulated media to spread misleading narratives during political transitions in Bangladesh, exacerbating societal tensions and challenging the interim government. Simultaneously, efforts within Bangladesh to combat this problem through fact-checking initiatives are described, emphasizing the growth and impact of local organizations dedicated to verifying information. A broader perspective on the threat of disinformation and strategies to build resilience against it are also presented, advocating for preventative measures like...2025-04-1919 min
AKTIFULIs Starlink Deal Crippled by Existing Bangaldesh Cyber Security Act / Laws?This episode discusses new guidelines in Bangladesh allowing government intervention in satellite internet services like Starlink, raising concerns about internet shutdowns and surveillance. 2025-04-1010 min
AKTIFUL📰 Kihak Sung: Biography, Awards, Legacy, and GivingKihak Sung, born in 1947 in Seoul, South Korea, is the chairman and CEO of Youngone Corporation. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in international economics. In 1974, he founded Youngone Corporation, focusing on manufacturing and exporting garments. citeturn0search0In 1980, Sung established Bangladesh's first foreign-owned apparel manufacturing plant in Chattogram, significantly contributing to the country's emergence as a global garment production hub. Youngone's factories in Dhaka and Chattogram produce jackets, trousers, sports shoes, and leather goods for international markets. The company employs approximately 73,000 people in Bangladesh and about 95,000 globally. citeturn0search3Sung played a pi...2025-04-1005 min
AKTIFUL🚀 Bangladesh Joins NASA's Artemis Accords for Space ExplorationBangladesh has officially joined the Artemis Accords with NASA, becoming the 54th nation to collaborate on space exploration. This agreement, as explained by the Chairman of BIDA, signifies a commitment to a future where a new generation engages in space travel and potentially inhabits other celestial bodies. While immediate benefits may take two to three decades to materialize, this step is crucial for realizing the long-term aspiration of sending Bangladeshi astronauts into space. By partnering with NASA and other signatory nations, Bangladesh aims to foster development in its space science sector, create employment opportunities, and open new avenues for...2025-04-0807 min
AKTIFUL🗣️ BDR Tragedy 2009: Seeking Truth and JusticeThis episode is about a distressing discussion surrounding the 2009 BDR tragedy in Bangladesh. A victim's family member shares her experiences and perspectives on the events, alleging mistreatment, raising questions about the investigation, and expressing distrust towards specific individuals and narratives. She recounts personal trauma, inconsistencies she perceives in official accounts, and accusations against particular figures. Participants in the discussion offer support and seek clarification on various aspects of the tragedy and its aftermath, including potential cover-ups and the role of different parties. The conversation highlights the lingering pain, unresolved issues, and the speaker's persistent pursuit of truth and justice...2025-04-0719 min
AKTIFUL🗣️ Analyzing Leaked Telegram Message of "Apa"These audio excerpts appear to capture conversations related to political mobilization and potential responses to perceived injustices. One speaker discusses organizing a large gathering of supporters in Dhaka at a leader's command. Another segment focuses on documenting property division and collecting testimonies from affected individuals, aiming to file complaints with international bodies against unnamed entities, possibly including UNIS. There's also discussion about the future, potentially large-scale public demonstrations, and the importance of self-reliance and defense despite current limitations. Finally, a reflection on past power and ongoing challenges against perceived conspiracies is mentioned.2025-04-0206 min
AKTIFUL😅 Escaping the Marriage Question at Eid GatheringsThis episode dives into the chaotic yet heartwarming experience of Eid family gatherings, where delicious food and festive cheer often come with an unwelcome side dish: the persistent "when are you getting married?" question. Join our protagonist as they navigate a minefield of well-meaning but nosy relatives, armed with a hilarious arsenal of strategies to deflect the annual marriage interrogation.Will they successfully deploy the "food defence strategy," stuffing themselves with biryani to avoid answering? Or perhaps they'll attempt the daring "reverse psychology" tactic, turning the tables on their inquisitive uncles and aunties? Maybe they'll even feign...2025-03-2716 min
AKTIFUL🌱 Bangladesh Election: Rise of a New Political PlayerAs Bangladesh prepares for the upcoming elections, a new political force led by student activists has emerged following a Gen-Z uprising that challenged the long-standing authoritarian rule of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This uprising, though met with violent suppression, propelled student leader Nahid Islam into the interim government and led to the formation of the National Citizens' Party (NCP), which aims to offer a fresh, centrist alternative to the country's established political parties like the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. While polls predict the BNP will dominate the next elections, the NCP seeks to capitalize on a...2025-03-2713 min
AKTIFUL🇧🇩 Chief Adviser's Address to the NationDr. Muhammad Yunus, as Chief Adviser, addressed the nation on the eve of Independence Day, commemorating the martyrs of the 1971 liberation war. He highlighted the interim government's efforts to control inflation, restore the economy after alleged mismanagement, and increase remittances. The address also detailed initiatives against corruption, for digital governance, and to ease the lives of citizens and expatriates. Furthermore, it covered foreign investment, export growth, strengthened international relations, and plans for regional economic cooperation and Starlink internet. Finally, Yunus emphasized women's empowerment, minority rights, and the pursuit of free and fair elections while also addressing the issue of...2025-03-2524 min
AKTIFUL⚖️ Bangladesh: Justice, Truth, and ReformThis article from March 2025 discusses the challenges and actions of Bangladesh's Interim Government following the tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The author, Jon Danilowicz, highlights the focus on justice and accountability for past human rights violations, including reforms to the International Crimes Tribunal. He notes a tension between the desire for swift justice, the time needed for proper procedures, and the absence of key figures like Hasina. The piece also emphasizes the importance of uncovering the truth about enforced disappearances through a Commission of Inquiry and suggests a potential future Truth Commission. Furthermore, it underscores the need...2025-03-2413 min
AKTIFUL⚠️ WEF Global Risks Report 2024This episode delves into the critical findings of the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2024, which analyzes the most pressing threats facing our world over the next one, two, and ten years. Drawing on the insights of nearly 1,500 experts from academia, business, government, the international community, and civil society through the Global Risks Perception Survey (GRPS), as well as over 11,000 business leaders via the Executive Opinion Survey (EOS), this report paints a sobering picture of the evolving global risks landscape.Discover the top global risks anticipated in 2024, with extreme weather leading the concerns, followed closely...2025-03-2113 min
AKTIFUL🩸 Buet: Shahbag Spirit's Role in Creating Environment for Abrar MurderDaily Amar Desh's YouTube transcript details the environment leading to the 2019 murder of Buet student Abrar Fahad by ছাত্রলীগের সন্ত্রাসীরা (Chhatra League terrorists). The report alleges that the creation of this environment involved a ফেসবুক group called "Aripata," known for its Shahbagh support and anti-Islamic views, which identified and targeted students perceived as শিবির (Islamist sympathizers). The transcript further claims that Buet administration officials, including উপাচার্যs (vice-chancellors) and ছাত্র কল্যাণ directors (student welfare directors), were aware of and even facilitated the torture and harassment of students by ছাত্রলীগ between 2012 and 2019. Victim testimonies describe how the administration often ignored or supported ছাত্রলীগ's actions, leading to a culture of impunity and the establishment of torture cells on campus, ultimately culminating in Abrar's tragic death, and calls for accountabi...2025-03-1712 min
AKTIFUL📰 Bangladesh Reset: Revolution, Yunus, and India's Role 2025-03-1511 min
AKTIFUL🗣️ Bangladesh: Insights on Politics, Business, and Future OpportunitiesThe episode features a discussion centered on Bangladesh's advancement, with participants sharing insights on a range of topics, including social justice, the political landscape, economic development, and the education system. Concerns are raised regarding incidents of violence and the necessity for appropriate legal actions, as well as the importance of religious freedom and minority issues. The discussion also covers the need for citizen engagement and the role of political parties. Ideas for economic growth and job creation are explored, including attracting investment and developing export sectors. Participants highlight the importance of improving the education system to encourage entrepreneurship and...2025-03-1021 min
AKTIFUL😡 India Hate Speech Report: 2024 Data and AnalysisIndia Hate Lab's "Report 2024: Hate Speech Events in India" documents a surge in hate speech incidents targeting religious minorities, particularly Muslims, in India. The report highlights a 74.4% increase in such events compared to 2023, frequently instigated by the ruling BJP party and Hindu nationalist organizations. Much of the hate speech is connected to political events and elections, with national leaders playing a key role in propagating communal rhetoric, which is amplified by social media. The report also finds that dangerous speech, which included incitement to violence and calls for the destruction of places of worship, increased significantly, and that social...2025-03-0614 min
AKTIFUL✊ Bangladesh 2.0: A People's Revolution Against AutocracyThe "Bangladesh 2.0" revolution of 2024 was a grassroots uprising that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years, beginning as a student-led movement fueled by the reinstatement of job quotas in June 2024. This evolved into a nationwide push for democracy and reform due to deep public grievances such as authoritarian governance, rigged elections, economic injustice, and corruption. The turning point occurred when the military refused to fire on unarmed civilians, leading to Hasina's flight on August 5, 2024, and the formation of an interim government under Dr. Muhammad Yunus. While some, like Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, have proposed a U.S.-engineered regime change...2025-03-0531 min
AKTIFULUS Regime-Change Accusations in Bangladesh | Jeffrey Sachs, Columbia UniversityJeffrey Sachs' opinion piece in Common Dreams argues that the UN should investigate accusations against the United States for covert regime change operations in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Sachs points to the ousting of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan and Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheik Hasina as potential examples of U.S. interference. He cites instances like a U.S. official's warning to Pakistan and Hasina's claims about being pressured to grant the U.S. military facilities. Sachs believes the UN should step in because these actions violate international law and threaten global stability, especially since the U.S. is unlikely...2025-03-0510 min
AKTIFUL⛓️ Bangladesh's Secret Detention Centers: Torture and Disappearances ExposedSky News gained exclusive access to Bangladesh's secret detention centers, revealing alleged state-led brutality and enforced disappearances. The investigation uncovers a network of underground prisons where political captives faced torture and potential death. Victims were often critics of the government, held by the Rapid Action Battalion, with evidence suggesting false charges were used to detain them. Prosecutors are building a case for crimes against humanity against former leader Sheikh Hasina, who is accused of ordering these acts during her "war on terror," which has been labeled a "fake" war. Survivors recount years of confinement in windowless rooms, while families...2025-03-0420 min
AKTIFUL🏅 Abrar Fahad: Posthumous Independence Medal 2025Abrar Fahad, a student murdered in 2019 for his suspected political affiliation, has been posthumously awarded the Independence Medal 2025 in Bangladesh. The award recognizes his sacrifice and symbolizes his resistance against injustice. News reports and social media posts highlight the nation's acknowledgement of Fahad as an inspiration for standing against oppression. He is remembered as a champion of free thought, and the award commemorates his legacy. The brutal circumstances of his death have solidified his place as a symbol of courage.2025-03-0305 min
AKTIFULA Former 🇺🇸 Ambassador's Enduring Hope: Can 🇧🇩 Finally Achieve Democracy?This podcast episode features Dan Mozena's optimistic perspective on Bangladesh's democratic future, acknowledging its history of instability. Mozena, the former US ambassador, conveys his strong appreciation for the people of Bangladesh and their aspirations for a democratic, secure, and prosperous nation. The discussion centers on the student-led uprising that sought to end authoritarianism, the historical struggles of Bangladesh with oppressive forces, and the unique decision of the student revolutionaries to seek guidance from Professor Muhammad Yunus. It will also likely address the challenges facing Bangladesh's pursuit of democracy, the critical role of the interim government led by Professor Yunus...2025-03-0212 min
AKTIFUL📢 Shafiqul Alam on Bangladesh Disinformation and July RevolutionIn this episode, Shafiqul Alam, the press secretary for Bangladesh's interim government, addresses the urgent issue of disinformation and its impact on the nation's global image. Alam highlights the interim government's struggle to counter false narratives due to limited resources and the structure of the government. He stresses the need for empowering local media and independent fact-checking organizations. The discussion also covers the role social media plays in spreading misinformation, the challenges within Bangladesh's diplomatic corps, and the importance of transparency. The episode further addresses the New Hampshire resolution 11, job creation efforts, the emergence of a new...2025-03-0111 min
AKTIFUL🌱 Jatiya Nagorik Party: Origins, Vision, ChallengesThis episode attempts to provide an overview of the Jatiya Nagorik Party (JNP) in Bangladesh, a youth-led political entity that emerged after the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024. It details the party's origins in student protests, its leadership structure composed of young activists, and its vision for a more democratic and inclusive Bangladesh. The episode also examines the challenges facing the JNP, including internal divisions and external political obstacles. A SWOT analysis highlights the party's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as it seeks to establish itself in the Bangladeshi political landscape. Ultimately, the analysis assesses the JNP's...2025-02-2822 min
AKTIFULFreedom in the World 2025: The Uphill Battle to Safeguard RightsFreedom House's Freedom in the World 2025 report assesses the state of political rights and civil liberties globally, noting a concerning 19th consecutive year of decline in freedom. The report highlights key factors contributing to this decline, including violence during elections, ongoing armed conflicts, and the spread of authoritarian practices. It examines how elected leaders in some democracies are actively undermining institutions designed to ensure accountability, such as the media and the judiciary. The assessment further emphasizes the destabilizing role of nonstate armed groups in various regions, noting how their violence often intersects with corruption and authoritarian interests. The report...2025-02-2743 min
AKTIFUL🤝 Bangladesh Army Chief's Address: Unity, Discipline, and National StabilityThe YouTube transcript features the Bangladesh Army Chief addressing the nation on a somber anniversary, emphasizing unity and discipline within the armed forces. He reflects on past tragedies, specifically the 2009 BDR mutiny, and calls for an end to internal conflicts and external attacks on the army. He stresses the importance of supporting law enforcement agencies while ensuring accountability for misconduct, warning against undermining these vital organizations. The Chief advocates for a fair election and urges citizens to help Dr. Yunus in his efforts to unite the country. He concludes by reiterating his commitment to serving both active and retired...2025-02-2516 min
AKTIFUL💔 Bangladesh Protests 2024: Human Rights Violations and AccountabilityThis United Nations Human Rights Office Fact-Finding Report details human rights violations and abuses that occurred during protests in Bangladesh in July and August 2024. The report, conducted at the invitation of the Interim Government, uncovers the former Government's systematic suppression of protests, marked by violent actions by security forces and affiliated groups. It highlights extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, torture, obstruction of medical care, and attacks on journalists and minority groups. The investigation revealed direct involvement and coordination of the political leadership and security apparatus in these violations. The report further examines accountability efforts, identifies those responsible, and suggests measures...2025-02-2411 min
AKTIFULBangladesh Politics, Corruption, and the Awami League: A Candid DiscussionThis episode analyzes a X space featuring a speaker from Bangladesh, Sohel Taj, a former State Minister of Home Affairs. He is the son of Bangladesh's first Prime Minister, Tajuddin Ahmad. He discusses the ousted Sheikh Hasina government, which ruled Bangladesh for the past 15 years until the recent student-led revolution on August 5, 2025, that led to the formation of an interim government with Dr. Yunus as the Chief Advisor. This X Space explores Mr. Taj’s backstory and his views on how to move the country forward toward Bangladesh 2.0.The original X space https://x...2025-02-2424 min
AKTIFUL💔 Room 2011: The Murder of Abrar FahadIn this episode, we uncover the harrowing story of Abrar Fahad, a university student in Bangladesh who became the target of campus brutality after expressing anti-government views online. What begins as suspicion quickly escalates into relentless torture, culminating in his tragic death in room 2011. Through chilling dialogue and firsthand accounts, we expose a culture of extortion, violence, and impunity that thrives under the watch of powerful figures. As the perpetrators realize they will be held accountable, other students reflect on the Abrar they once knew—a young man full of life, now lost to a system that silences dissent. Jo...2025-02-1913 min
AKTIFUL🙏 Bangladesh Environment, Energy, and Policy: An Interim Government PerspectiveThis episodes presents a Kawsar Chowdhury (@kawsarc) moderated conversation focusing on Bangladesh's environmental and sustainable development issues. The discussion features insights from Reswana Hassan, an advisor to the interim government, and Dr. Farhana Sultana, a geography and environment professor.Topics explored include the immediate aftermath of the 2024 floods, international water sharing challenges with neighboring countries, and domestic climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. Energy policy, pollution management, agriculture, and concerns related to St. Martin's Island are also examined. The conversation highlights the complexities of addressing these issues within the limitations of an interim government and...2025-02-1616 min
AKTIFUL🇧🇩 Abrar's Story: A Bangladeshi Student FilmThis episode discusses a short film about Abrar Fahad, a Bangladeshi student tragically killed in 2019. Made by a third-year film student, it's a powerful story highlighting the impact of this event. Despite facing challenges securing distribution, the filmmakers, supported by a social enterprise, released it publicly on Abrar's birthday. The film is lauded for its quality and emotional impact, showcasing the resilience of the family and the nation. The speakers emphasize its importance for students and parents, urging everyone to watch it.2025-02-1214 min
AKTIFULIndian Disinformation Campaign on Bangladesh: A Study of XThis episode discusses the research report by TechGloabl Institute titled The Anatomy of Disinformation on X that analyzes disinformation campaigns on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and YouTube targeting Bangladesh during its 2024 political transition. The study, using a sample of 100 posts, identifies coordinated efforts by suspected foreign networks, primarily originating from India, to spread false narratives about violence against Hindus. These campaigns weaponized social media using culturally charged narratives and historical revisionism to incite fear and communal conflict. The report details tactics employed, including fact distortion, exaggeration of violence, and discrediting strategies, while assessing the limitations of current fact-checking methodologies...2024-12-2013 min
AKTIFULAbrar Fahad Story for Our American FriendsThis AI-generated episode was created to share the tragic story of Abrar Fahad so that our friends attending the Room Number 2011 movie screening can have some background information by listening to this episode.Timeline of Abrar Fahad's StoryPre-Incident1998: Abrar Fahad was born in Kushtia, Bangladesh.2018: Enrolled at BUET to study Electrical and Electronic Engineering.Incident TimelineOctober 6, 2019:Abrar was summoned to Sher-e-Bangla Hall by BCL members.Tortured for hours over a Facebook post criticizing the Feni River water-sharing deal.Died from injuries that night.October 7, 2019:His body was found...2024-11-2613 min
AKTIFULIntroduction to AKTIFUL | একটিফুলAktiful, launching November 30th, 2024, is a social enterprise aiming to improve Bangladesh. Inspired by Muhammad Yunus's social business model and Y Combinator's mentorship approach, Aktiful connects Bangladeshi Americans with opportunities to foster positive change in their homeland. Their initiatives include combating misinformation, transferring technology, supporting students and entrepreneurs, and promoting inclusivity. Currently, they are sponsoring a film about the murder of Abrar Fahad, a BUET student. They also have a podcast to engage Bangladeshi youth.2024-11-2217 min