Country Profile: Bangladesh
Bangladesh, located in Southern Asia, is a densely populated country known for its vibrant culture and significant geographical features, including the world's largest river delta formed by the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. With a population of approximately 168 million in 2024, it is predominantly Bengali, with a rich history shaped by various empires, colonial rule, and a struggle for independence in 1971. The economy, one of the fastest growing in the region, relies heavily on the textile industry and has seen substantial poverty reduction over the past decade. Governance is structured as a parliamentary republic, though political stability has been challenged by historical coups and recent protests.
Geography
Bangladesh is situated between Burma and India, bordered by the Bay of Bengal. The country's total area is 148,460 sq km, with a mix of flat alluvial plains and hilly regions in the southeast. The terrain is prone to natural hazards such as flooding and cyclones, especially during the monsoon season.
- Area: 148,460 sq km
- Land boundaries: 4,413 km
- Coastline: 580 km
- Major rivers: Brahmaputra, Ganges
- Climate: Tropical with distinct monsoon seasons
People and Society
With a population of about 168.7 million as of 2024, Bangladesh is characterized by its young demographic and diverse cultural practices. The majority are Bengali Muslims, but the country also recognizes various indigenous groups. Life expectancy has improved significantly, currently at 75.2 years, reflecting advancements in healthcare and living standards.
- Population: 168,697,184 (2024)
- Median age: 29.6 years (2024)
- Urban population: 40.5% (2023)
- Literacy rate: 79% (2022)
- Life expectancy: 75.2 years (2024)
Economy
Bangladesh has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies, with a GDP (PPP) of $1.473 trillion projected for 2024. The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, industry, and services, with a notable contribution from the textile sector. Despite challenges such as inflation and declining foreign exchange reserves, significant poverty reduction has occurred over the past decade.
- GDP (official exchange rate): $450.119 billion (2024)
- Real GDP growth rate: 4.2% (2024)
- Unemployment rate: 4.7% (2024)
- Exports: $53.848 billion (2024)
- Population below poverty line: 18.7% (2022)
Government
Bangladesh is a parliamentary republic with a complex political history. The current president is Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppi, and the head of government is Interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus. The governance structure has experienced instability, with recent mass protests leading to a change in leadership.
- Capital: Dhaka
- Government type: Parliamentary republic
- Independence: 16 December 1971
- Suffrage: Universal, age 18
- Administrative divisions: 8 divisions
Military and Security
The Armed Forces of Bangladesh consist of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The military plays a vital role in both internal security and external defense, participating actively in UN peacekeeping missions. Annual military expenditures represent approximately 0.9% of GDP.
- Active military personnel: ~170,000 (2025)
- Military expenditures: 0.9% of GDP (2024)
- Military deployments: ~6,000 personnel on UN missions
- Service age: 17-21 years
Energy
Bangladesh's energy sector is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, accounting for 98.4% of its electricity generation capacity. The country has made substantial progress in electrification, with access reaching 99.4% of the population. However, it continues to face challenges regarding energy demand and infrastructure.
- Installed electricity capacity: 22.699 million kW (2023)
- Electricity consumption: 107.285 billion kWh (2023)
- Electrification rate: 99.4% (total population)
- Natural gas production: 22.334 billion cubic meters (2023)
Environment
Bangladesh faces significant environmental challenges, including flooding, water pollution, and deforestation. As a tropical country, it experiences seasonal monsoons, which contribute to its vulnerability to natural disasters.
- Total water withdrawal: 31.5 billion cubic meters (2022)
- Carbon dioxide emissions: 125.956 million metric tonnes (2023)
- Natural hazards: Flooding, cyclones
- Land use: 72.3% agricultural land (2023)
Transportation
The transportation network in Bangladesh includes a mix of roads, railways, and waterways, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the country. Major ports include Chittagong and Mongla, critical for international trade.
- Railways: 2,460 km (2014)
- Airports: 17 (2025)
- Merchant marine: 558 vessels (2023)
- Key ports: Chittagong, Mongla
Communications
Bangladesh has seen growth in communication technologies, with an increasing number of mobile and internet users. The telecommunications sector is primarily state-owned, and broadband services are expanding.
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 191 million (2023)
- Internet users: 45% of the population (2023)
- Fixed-line subscriptions: 302,000 (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 168,697,184 (2024 est.) | Total population |
| Area | 148,460 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (official exchange rate) | $450.119 billion (2024) | Current USD at official rate |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% (2024 est.) | Percentage of labor force seeking jobs |
| Energy consumption per capita | 11.472 million Btu/person (2023 est.) | Total energy consumption |
| Life expectancy at birth | 75.2 years (2024 est.) | Average life expectancy |
| Birth rate | 17.3 births/1,000 population (2024 est.) | Birth rate per 1,000 people |
| Literacy rate | 79% (2022 est.) | Total literacy among population |
| Population below poverty line | 18.7% (2022 est.) | Percentage living below national poverty line |
| Total renewable water resources | 1.227 trillion cubic meters (2022 est.) | Annual renewable water resources |
Explore more about this country: