The morning light calls us to a new year every day. Yet sometimes, that very light penetrates the depths of our memory, where the imprint of the past year remains indelible. The year 2025 has left a complex mark on our lives—fear, frustration, astonishment, hope, and countless questions. The political, social, economic, and humanitarian landscape of the country has provided lessons, warnings, and underscored the need for new planning.

In the economy, the expectations of ordinary people were not met. The poverty rate rose to 21 percent—36 million people live below the poverty line, and another 62 million are at the risk of falling into marginal poverty. High inflation, unemployment, and defaulted loans have created pressure in daily life. Young people, despite their education, are unable to find employment, and small entrepreneurs face uncertain income prospects.

Inequality in education and healthcare remains stark. Even though urban areas enjoy comparatively better facilities, lower-income and rural populations are deprived of fair opportunities. Many children do not reach secondary education after completing primary school. Limited access to healthcare is reducing the quality of life for the poor. The top 10 percent of the population owns 58 percent of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 50 percent controls only 4 percent. This inequality is not merely economic; it affects educational opportunities, healthcare, security, and social dignity. There is a pressing need for coordinated policies and long-term planning that ensures not only economic growth but also mental well-being and social justice.

The political arena was marked by uncertainty and tension. Interim government activities and the potential election dates were unclear. Political parties were entangled in complex alliances and conflicts. Reports of political violence and terrorism heightened public concern. The issue of political security and freedom was particularly significant for women.

However, some reassuring developments emerged towards the end of the year. The election date has been set—February 12, 2026. The voter list has been finalized, and candidate lists for various constituencies have begun to be published. The acting chairman of the BNP, Tarique Rahman, has returned to the country, restoring a degree of political balance. These measures have provided some assurance to the public and indicated the possibility of fair political processes centered around the upcoming elections. Yet the overall situation remains fragile. Violence, terrorism, and threats from anti-social forces persist. Political awareness and democratic maturity are still evolving.

Public safety remained a deep concern. Children, businesspeople, students, and journalists—all have been victims of violence. At the beginning of the year, the brutal abuse and death of an eight-year-old in Magura shocked society. Public killings on the busy streets of Dhaka, attacks on businesspeople with machetes and stones, extortion, and looting disrupted daily life. Fires in urban and rural areas, airport incidents, and the Milestone School and College plane accident further undermined the public sense of security. Attacks on journalists and obstructions to media activity, along with the absence of social justice, have fueled fear, anxiety, and uncertainty among the population. Addressing this requires smart, organized, and effective policies that control violence, protect ordinary people, and restore social trust and justice.

The education sector faced multifaceted challenges. Fifty-seven percent of children do not reach secondary school after completing primary education. Child labor and early marriage continue to prevail, hindering children’s physical, mental, and social development. Violence and murder at universities have further disrupted the educational environment. The Parvez murder at Primeasia University, public assaults, and student harassment have raised questions not only about security but also about social values, moral education, and rational discipline. Insufficient education, violence, child labor, and early marriage collectively complicate the development of human resources in Bangladesh. Reforming the education system, ensuring fair access, and providing quality education are essential so that every child can develop according to their potential.

Violence and discrimination against women remained a harsh reality. Domestic abuse, sexual harassment, and unequal opportunities have reinforced social inequality. However, social awareness, protest, and civic initiatives have begun to bring about change. Women’s empowerment and social consciousness are emerging as key drivers of national transformation. Citizens from various ages, classes, and communities are actively participating in these movements, contributing to the establishment of justice and human dignity in society.

Towards the end of 2025, the country faced a significant void in its political landscape. Many leaders who had long been active in the political arena and committed to democracy and social justice passed away. Notably, BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who died at the age of 79, left an invaluable legacy. Her insight, struggle, and wisdom had made a profound contribution to the political process of the country.

For 2026, the most critical task will be to ensure human security. Safe lives, quality healthcare, and educational opportunities must be guaranteed for children, women, and the elderly. Strengthening law enforcement, preventing political violence, and conducting elections fairly, transparently, and impartially are essential. These steps will restore trust, discipline, and stability in society.

Economically, the focus must be on poverty reduction, decreasing inequality, generating employment, and increasing production and exports. Supporting agricultural and industrial output, investment, new entrepreneurs, and skilled human resources will drive the country toward long-term stability. Most importantly, social justice and democratic culture must be established. Violence, mob actions, or personal exploitation must never be legitimized as “mob justice.”

The new year should remind us that national progress is not measured merely by statistics or economic indicators but by the quality of life, security, and justice for the people. 2026 should be the year when every citizen is safe, educated, self-reliant, and dignified—setting new benchmarks of peace, prosperity, and justice for the nation.