Early Life and Family Background
Sheikh Hasina was born on 28 September 1947 in Tungipara, Gopalganj, East Bengal (then a part of British India, later East Pakistan, and now Bangladesh). Her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was an influential political leader who eventually became the architect of Bangladesh’s independence. Her mother, Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib, played a key role in supporting Sheikh Mujib’s political career while raising their children in a traditional yet politically active household.
As the eldest of five siblings, Sheikh Hasina often acted as a caretaker for her younger brothers and sister. Her family was deeply rooted in Bengali culture and Islamic values, fostering her strong sense of identity and morality. Her early education in Gopalganj and Dhaka laid the foundation for her intellectual growth and sense of responsibility.
Education and Early Political Exposure
Sheikh Hasina’s education at Azimpur Girls’ School and later at Intermediate College, followed by a bachelor’s degree from Dhaka University, provided her with an opportunity to develop critical thinking skills. At Dhaka University, she engaged with student activism, which gave her firsthand exposure to the tumultuous political landscape of East Pakistan.
Her early exposure to politics was influenced by her father’s leadership in the Awami League and his involvement in the Bengali Language Movement and the push for autonomy from West Pakistan. These formative experiences instilled in her a deep understanding of the socio-political challenges faced by the Bengali people.
The Tragedy of 1975 and Life in Exile
The 15 August 1975 coup that led to the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and most of her family members was a cataclysmic event. Sheikh Hasina and her sister Sheikh Rehana were the only survivors of her immediate family, as they were in Germany at the time. The trauma of losing her loved ones and the subsequent political upheaval shaped her resolve to carry forward her father’s mission.
While living in exile in India, Sheikh Hasina maintained her political connections and began strategizing the revival of the Awami League. Despite personal tragedies, she remained focused on her vision for a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh.
Leadership of the Awami League
In 1981, Sheikh Hasina was unanimously elected as the president of the Awami League while still in exile. Her return to Bangladesh that year marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s political history. She faced enormous challenges, including rebuilding a party that was in disarray and dealing with a military-dominated political environment.
Her leadership was characterized by an emphasis on grassroots mobilization, democratic values, and inclusivity. Hasina worked tirelessly to establish the Awami League as the principal opposition party, challenging autocratic regimes and advocating for free elections.
First Tenure as Prime Minister (1996–2001)
Sheikh Hasina became the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the first time in June 1996, following the Awami League’s victory in the general elections. Her tenure was marked by several landmark achievements that set the stage for Bangladesh’s progress.
Key Policies and Reforms:
Economic Initiatives:
- Her government promoted agricultural growth by ensuring fair prices for farmers and enhancing irrigation systems.
- Trade liberalization policies boosted exports, particularly in the garment industry.
Educational Reforms:
- Primary education was made free for all, and stipends were introduced to encourage girls’ enrollment.
- Vocational training programs were launched to address unemployment among youth.
Social Empowerment:
- Women’s participation in public life was encouraged, with quotas introduced in government jobs and local governance.
- Health initiatives, including immunization campaigns, drastically reduced child mortality rates.
Infrastructure Development:
- Investments in rural electrification and road networks improved connectivity and access to services in remote areas.
Despite these successes, Sheikh Hasina’s first tenure faced criticism over corruption allegations and internal party conflicts, which contributed to her party’s defeat in the 2001 elections.
Resurgence and Consecutive Terms (2009-Present)
Following years in opposition and a period of political turmoil, Sheikh Hasina returned to power in 2009 with a landslide victory. Her government ushered in a new era of transformation, marked by robust economic growth and major development projects.
Economic Milestones:
- Bangladesh became one of the fastest-growing economies globally, with GDP growth exceeding 7% in some years.
- The nation achieved self-sufficiency in food production and became a leading exporter of ready-made garments.
Mega Projects:
- The Padma Bridge, a self-funded mega project, became a symbol of national pride.
- Projects like the Dhaka Metro Rail and Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant showcased her commitment to modernization.
Digital Bangladesh Initiative:
Hasina’s vision of a “Digital Bangladesh” led to widespread digitization across government services, education, and healthcare. The expansion of ICT infrastructure created new opportunities for employment and innovation.
Addressing Global Challenges:
- Sheikh Hasina took a strong stance on climate change, advocating for the rights of vulnerable nations at international forums.
- Her government managed the Rohingya refugee crisis with compassion, providing shelter to over a million refugees despite economic and logistical challenges.
Governance and Controversies
While Sheikh Hasina’s tenure has been marked by progress, it has also faced controversies. Critics accuse her government of curbing press freedom and suppressing political opposition. Allegations of election irregularities and authoritarian tendencies have drawn international attention.
However, her supporters argue that her firm governance style has been necessary to ensure stability and continuity in Bangladesh’s development trajectory.
Awards and Global Recognition
Sheikh Hasina has received numerous awards for her leadership and contributions:
- UNESCO Peace Tree Award (1999) for her commitment to peace and stability.
- South-South Cooperation Visionary Award (2013) for advancing economic cooperation.
- Global Women’s Leadership Award (2018) for her role in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Vision for the Future
Sheikh Hasina’s ambitious vision for Bangladesh by 2041 includes achieving developed nation status, eradicating poverty, and ensuring sustainability. Her focus on renewable energy, technological innovation, and human capital development highlights her forward-thinking approach.
Personal Traits and Legacy
Sheikh Hasina is often described as resilient, pragmatic, and compassionate. Her personal life reflects her ability to balance familial responsibilities with the demands of leadership. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, plays a key role in advising on digital strategies, while her daughter, Saima Wazed, is a prominent advocate for mental health.
Conclusion
Sheikh Hasina’s life and leadership embody the spirit of perseverance and dedication. As one of the world’s longest-serving female leaders, she continues to shape Bangladesh’s destiny, leaving behind a legacy of transformation and progress.