Dhaka, Jan 07 (V7N) — While digital transformation has accelerated progress in Bangladesh, it has also created new inequalities, according to Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, Honorary Fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). Speaking at a discussion titled “Open Dialogue for Democratic Rebuilding: Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship” held Tuesday at the CIRDAP Auditorium in Dhaka, he noted that artificial intelligence on social media is being misused to spread violence and hatred during elections, yet neither the Election Commission nor the government has shown adequate initiative to prevent it. The event was organized by the private research institution, Centre for Governance Studies (CGS).

Dr. Bhattacharya emphasized that digital systems have helped reduce corruption to some extent, but stressed the need for an integrated national data repository. He suggested that such a system should remain autonomous, monitored, and accountable, independent of the Election Commission or the Ministry of Home Affairs. He also highlighted that the new cybersecurity ordinance should be legitimized by the next government, and political parties must clarify measures for digital security in upcoming elections.

He added that while digital transformation has created employment opportunities, it has disrupted traditional job sectors. He cited the August 2013 internet shutdown during the Shahbagh movement as evidence of the internet’s power, stating that the government faced a moral defeat by blocking online access.

Other experts highlighted the importance of democracy and good governance for economic development. They noted that entrepreneurship and digital economic growth require a transparent system. Currently, entrepreneurs in Bangladesh face bureaucratic harassment when seeking loans, discouraging both local and foreign investors.

Shahdel Islam Helal, former President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries, said digitalization provides a pathway to eliminate corruption and bribery, and stressed the need to nurture young IT entrepreneurs. Former National Board of Revenue Chairman Dr. Muhammad Abdul Majid noted that automation and digitalization alone are insufficient without a shift in mindset, citing regional comparisons where skilled professionals thrive in places like Silicon Valley.

Asif Ibrahim, former President of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that the country’s e-commerce sector still lags and called for enhanced digital literacy and skills among youth.

The discussion, chaired by CGS President Zillur Rahman, also featured speeches from National Awami Party (NAP) Chairman Jebel Rahman Ghani, Daffodil Group Chairman Sabur Khan, Dean of Business School at University of Asia Pacific M.A. Baqui Khalili, former Barvidar President Abdul Haque, Dhaka University Professor Shahidul Islam Zahid, and female entrepreneur Tajmin Nasrin, among others.

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