Bangladesh is one of the world’s poorest and most densely populated countries. Comparable to England and Wales in land size, its population exceeds the UK’s by 100 million.
Formerly East Pakistan, Bangladesh was created in 1971 when the two parts of Pakistan divided after a bitter conflict. A fragile democracy was restored in 1990 after 15 years of military rule.
As a low-lying river delta in the tropics, the country is prone to regular monsoon flooding and is vulnerable to sea level rise due to climate change.
Most Bangladeshis rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. Poverty prevails across the country – nearly half the population survive on less than one dollar a day.
Public health indicators and educational standards are low, mortality rates are high, women and minority groups are marginalised, corruption is endemic – and religious extremism is on the rise.
Christians form a tiny minority in Bangladesh and often feel marginalised and discriminated against. Women’s rights are also an ongoing concern, especially with regard to violence against women and trafficking.