Yunus tells The Economist that there is no room for Islamic extremism in Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has stated that Islamic extremism will never have a place in Bangladesh again.

Yunus made this remark in a recent interview with Patrick Foulis, the foreign editor of the British weekly magazine The Economist.

"I can assure you that this is not happening at all. These are very enthusiastic young people—they are very neutral about their religion," Yunus said in response to concerns raised by Foulis. The interviewer had pointed out that both American and Indian officials had warned of the potential risk of Islamic extremism resurfacing in Bangladesh.

The interview coincided with Bangladesh being named The Economist's country of the year for 2024, an honor given annually to the nation deemed the most improved.

The Economist explained, "For toppling a despot and making strides towards a more liberal government, Bangladesh is our country of the year."

In response, Yunus expressed pride in the recognition, saying, "We are delighted. We feel very proud that we made a big change because of the student uprising that took place. Since then, we have been saying we are creating a new Bangladesh."

He further emphasized the role of youth in shaping the future, saying, "The youth want to build a new Bangladesh."

"Young people can change the whole world. It's not about changing one country or another. What Bangladesh has done is one example of how powerful this young generation is. Let's pay attention to the young people."