Since its independence, Bangladesh has achieved significant progress in areas such as economic growth and women’s empowerment. However, systemic challenges persist, including dysfunctional politics, entrenched party culture, corruption, and low levels of transparency and public accountability. Amid these challenges, the July- led revolution has sparked hope for national transformation. Central to this vision is the pivotal question of constitutional reform—whether amendments are sufficient or a complete rewrite is necessary.
This pressing issue was brought to the forefront at the Youth Policy Summit 2024, held on day 1, 21 December. The debate session was organized by the Institute of Informatics and Development (IID), Youth for Policy (YfP) and Bangladesh Debate Federation BDF. Held at the Abdul Karim Sahitya Bisharad Auditorium of the historic Bangla Academy, the debate titled “This House Believes the Time Has Come to Rebuild the Constitution of Bangladesh” showcased passionate arguments on both sides regarding the future of the nation’s legal framework.
Proponents of a full constitutional rewrite argued that the 17 amendments already made have rendered the framework too fragmented to effectively address the nation’s evolving needs. They emphasized that the Constitution, initially designed for a newly independent state, no longer aligns with the aspirations of a modern, dynamic Bangladesh. Advocates highlighted the need for a comprehensive overhaul to create a Constitution that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to contemporary societal challenges, thereby laying the foundation for a more just and sustainable future.
Opponents, however, urged caution, warning of the potential risks of a drastic overhaul in a politically polarized environment. They stressed that the lack of national consensus could deepen divisions and argued that such a monumental task should not be undertaken by an interim government. Instead, they proposed targeted reforms to be carried out by a future elected government, emphasizing that the foundational principles of the original Constitution honor the legacy of Bangladesh’s independence movement and should be preserved.
The debate highlighted the delicate balance between preserving national unity and addressing the urgent need for political and legal reforms. While differing perspectives emerged, the discussion reaffirmed the critical role of young leaders in shaping Bangladesh’s future and underscored the importance of collective action in navigating the country’s path forward.
