Case Study: Bangladesh
Geography: Cambridge International GCSE (2027 Exams), topic 8.3.2
Sustainable Development in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a LIC facing challenges like poverty, but it uses strategies such as microfinance and garment exports to improve economic development and quality of life.
Bangladesh development status
- Bangladesh is a Low-Income Country (LIC) in South Asia.
- Bangladesh's population exceeds 160 million, causing pressure on resources.
- Frequent natural hazards like floods limit development.
- Reliance on agriculture keeps many in low-paid jobs.
- Limited infrastructure and education reduce economic growth.
Reasons for Bangladesh's development level
- High population density strains healthcare and education.
- Low industrialisation due to historical poverty slows progress.
- Dependence on farming exposes the economy to climate risks.
- Political instability in the past delayed infrastructure projects.
- Poor sanitation affects public health and workforce productivity.
Economic development strategies
- Bangladesh promotes its ready-made garment industry to boost exports.
- Microfinance schemes help poor people start small businesses.
- Investment in infrastructure improves transport and energy access.
- Special Economic Zones attract foreign investment and create jobs.
- Education programmes focus on increasing literacy and skills.
Improving quality of life
- Improved healthcare reduces child mortality and diseases.
- Access to clean water projects helps improve public health.
- Social safety nets support vulnerable families during crises.
- Rural electrification improves living standards and productivity.
- Women's empowerment projects enhance social and economic roles.
Raising Standard of Living
- Rising incomes from garment export jobs increase household spending.
- Urban development provides better housing and sanitation facilities.
- Environmental protections aim for sustainable resource use.
- Education leads to better employment and poverty reduction.
- Greater economic diversification reduces dependence on farming.
Test yourself on Case Study: Bangladesh
Which factor most significantly limits Bangladesh's development progress?
How do microfinance schemes contribute to Bangladesh's development?