The people of Bangladesh have long envisioned a society where democracy, equality, human dignity, and social justice aren’t just ideals but tangible realities.

These principles, born from the struggle and sacrifice of the 1971 Liberation War, represent the people’s ownership of the state—a sense of ownership that has steadily eroded under the authoritarian regime since 2009.

For years, Bangladesh has been subjected to governance defined by corruption, injustice, and divisive politics.

Yet, the July Revolution has reignited a spark of hope among the citizens—a hope for a rebuilt Bangladesh, where good governance, accountability, and inclusivity are the foundations of the nation.

At the forefront of this new vision is the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which has proposed a bold and transformative 31-point outline for structural reforms.

These reforms aim to repair and restore the state to its rightful owners: the people. Among these reforms, the concept of a ‘Rainbow Nation’ stands out as a guiding light of unity and progress.

But what does this ‘Rainbow Nation’ truly mean for Bangladesh, and how can the BNP turn this powerful vision into a reality?

The notion of a ‘Rainbow Nation’ was first popularized by Archbishop Desmond Tutu in the early 1990s to describe post-apartheid South Africa—a country embracing multiculturalism and unity after decades of racial segregation.

Following Nelson Mandela’s election as the first black president in 1994, both he and Tutu used the term to promote reconciliation among South Africa’s diverse ethnic and racial groups.

The ‘Rainbow Nation’ became a symbol of hope, unity, and a new beginning—a society overcoming the deep divisions of apartheid.

In the context of Bangladesh, a ‘Rainbow Nation’ envisions a similar reconciliation, but one that transcends ethnic lines to include the many ideologies, political beliefs, and religions that make up the fabric of the nation.

This vision is rooted in the idea of inclusivity—prioritizing unity over division, dialogue over discord, and reconciliation over retribution. It is a vision that seeks to bring together the country’s diverse voices under the umbrella of Bangladeshi nationalism, where every citizen, regardless of their background, feels valued and empowered to contribute to the nation’s development.

Realizing such a vision will not be easy. It requires a commitment to democratic principles, an unwavering belief in justice, and a determination to overcome the entrenched political and social divisions that have plagued Bangladesh for years.

But the July Revolution has shown that the people of Bangladesh are ready for change. They are ready for a society where everyone has a stake in its future, a society that embodies the ideals of democracy, equality, and social justice.

The BNP’s proposed ‘Rainbow Nation’ may be the key to this transformation—a way forward that builds bridges, fosters mutual understanding, and restores the people’s ownership of their country.

The question now is whether the political leaders of Bangladesh will rise to the occasion and turn this vision into a reality.

If they do, they will not only be rebuilding a nation but also fulfilling the hopes and dreams of millions who have long fought for a Bangladesh where democracy, inclusivity, and justice are not just ideals but lived realities.

Democracy, inclusivity, and national reconciliation

At the heart of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) philosophy is a commitment to democracy, equality, and social justice.

The party envisions a Bangladesh where governance is transparent, institutions are strong, and the voices of the people are heard.

Rooted in the principles of Bangladeshi nationalism, the BNP seeks to unite citizens across political, cultural, and religious divides to create a society that is progressive, inclusive, and free of corruption.

Central to the BNP’s vision is its 31-point reform agenda, a comprehensive framework aimed at democratic constitutional reforms, economic liberalisation, public accountability, and the strengthening of state institutions.

At the heart of this agenda is the creation of a ‘public-welfare government of national consensus,’ which aims to unite all pro-democracy forces to address the nation's challenges and rebuild its fundamental structures.

The concept of a ‘Rainbow Nation’ in Bangladesh calls for transformative, deliberate action to foster inclusivity and unity.

The BNP’s commitment to this vision is underscored by its proposal to establish a ‘National Reconciliation Commission,’ which would facilitate dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among diverse groups within the nation.

This commission would serve as a platform for engaging political parties, civil society organizations, and community leaders to address and resolve the nation’s challenges together.

A core aspect of the BNP’s Rainbow Nation is a governance model that respects and values diverse perspectives, beliefs, and contributions.

By promoting equality and fairness, the BNP aims to create an environment where every citizen feels a sense of belonging and ownership in the nation’s future.

The proposed ‘National Reconciliation Commission’ will be central to fostering mutual understanding and resolving conflicts through continuous dialogue among different groups.

To further solidify this vision, the BNP proposes a forward-looking ‘Social Contract’—a foundational agreement based on transparency, accountability, and participatory governance.

This new social contract would ensure that the government is accountable to the people, and that citizens’ rights and responsibilities are balanced.

In contrast to the politics of vengeance and division that have long hindered Bangladesh’s progress, the BNP’s Rainbow Nation seeks to promote forgiveness, reconciliation, and collaboration.

By focusing on common goals and shared values, the BNP aims to unite the nation and move forward together as one.

Building a rainbow nation through unity and justice

A Rainbow Nation cannot thrive without strong, independent institutions.

The BNP is dedicated to strengthening the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and other state institutions to ensure justice, fairness, and accountability.

By upholding the rule of law, the BNP envisions a society where every citizen is treated equally and justly.

However, the journey toward a Rainbow Nation is not without its challenges. Decades of divisive politics, mistrust, and systemic corruption have left deep scars on Bangladesh’s social fabric.

Overcoming these obstacles requires unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and the active participation of all citizens. Yet, the opportunities are vast.

The July Revolution revealed the people’s strong desire for change and their readiness to rebuild the nation.

The BNP’s inclusive and progressive vision provides a clear roadmap for transforming this desire into reality. By prioritizing unity, reconciliation, and good governance, the BNP aims to lead Bangladesh toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

The BNP’s vision of a Rainbow Nation represents a transformative shift toward inclusivity, unity, and progress.

By fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration, the BNP aims to build a society where every citizen feels valued and empowered.

Central to this vision are the proposed ‘National Reconciliation Commission’ and a new ‘Social Contract,’ which provide a framework for rebuilding trust and cooperation among diverse groups.

As Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, the choice is clear: to continue down the path of division and stagnation or to embrace the vision of a Rainbow Nation and work collectively for a brighter future.

The BNP’s unwavering commitment to democracy, equality, and social justice offers hope and inspiration for a unified and prosperous Bangladesh.

Now, it is up to the people to seize this opportunity and support the movement for change, ensuring that the ideals of the Liberation War are finally realized.

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Md Jobayer Hossain is the Country Coordinator for Malaysia & Singapore of Amnesty International UK. Email: [email protected]