Media Studies and Journalism student Tahsin Ahmed Tanmoy, 19,believes that the elections must herald a new era in Bangladesh characterized by transparency and inclusive governance. Committed to using his skills to help build a more just and participatory society, he wants the new government to show its strength by protecting the right to protest.
“From an early age, I learned that peaceful protest was a democratic right. It was something written into laws and spoken about in classrooms. But as I became more engaged in society, I began to see a contradiction.
Silence often feels safer than speaking out, even when issues directly affect our lives. Many young people hesitate before raising their voices, weighing their desire to speak against the risks of being labeled as troublemakers.
Many young people in Bangladesh face obstacles when they try to organize or participate in peaceful protests. They face administrative restrictions, fear of retaliation, or social pressure to remain silent. Over time, this creates an environment where exercising a fundamental right feels risky.
We want a country where peaceful protest is protected rather than criminalized
The impact goes beyond individual fear. When peaceful protest is discouraged, trust in democratic institutions begins to erode. Young people start to feel that their voices matter only at specific moments, rather than as part of an ongoing democratic process. This distances an entire generation from meaningful participation.
Our expectations are clear and reasonable. We want a country where peaceful protest is protected rather than criminalized, where law enforcement safeguards rights instead of intimidating those who exercise them, and where dissent is recognized as a contribution to society rather than a threat.
A confident and legitimate government does not fear peaceful protest. It understands that listening to criticism strengthens governance and builds long-term stability.”
