Bangladesh

Bangladesh lies at the north end of the Bay of Bengal and frequently suffers devastating flood, cyclones, and famine. It seceded from Pakistan in 1971.

Geography: Mostly flat alluvial plains and deltas of the Brahmaputra and Ganges
rivers. Southeast coasts are fringed with mangrove forests.

Climate: Hot and humid. During the monsoon, water levels can rise 20 ft (6 m) above sea level.

People and Society: After a period of military rule, Bangladesh returned to democracy in 1991; political instability has continued, however, and corruption is a major problem. Half of the population live in poverty, but living standards are improving. Women are prominent in politics, but their rights are neglected.

The Economy: Agriculture is vulnerable to unpredictable climate. Bangladesh
accounts for 90% of world jute fiber exports. Poor infrastructure deters investment. Growing textile industry.

Insight: Torrential monsoon rains flood two-thirds of the country every year.

The Economy: Agriculture is vulnerable to unpredictable climate. Bangladesh accounts for 90% of world jute fiber exports. Poor infrastructure deters investment. Growing textile industry.

Fact File:

Official Name: People’s Republic of Bangladesh

Date of Formation: 1971

Capital: Dhaka

Population: 162 million

Total Area: 55,598 sq. miles (144,000 sq. km)

Density: 3138 people per sq. mile

Languages: Bengali*, Urdu, Chakma, Marma, Garo, Khasi, Santhali, Tripuri, Mro

Religions: Muslim (mainly Sunni) 87%, Hindu 12%, other 1%

Ethnic Mix: Bengali 98%, other 2%

Government: Parliamentary system

Currency: Taka = 100 poisha