Why the US Cancelled Sheikh Hasina’s Visa and How Their Ties Turned Testy

The US recently revoked the visa of Bangladesh’s ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is now seeking asylum in the UAE and European countries after being denied refuge in the UK. Hasina fled Dhaka amid violent student protests over quotas reserved for 1971 war veterans’ kin, which resulted in over 400 deaths.

Relationship with the US:
Hasina maintained a largely productive relationship with the US, focusing on priorities like countering Islamist extremism and sheltering Rohingya refugees. However, the US began to criticize her for autocratic tendencies, imposing visa sanctions over democracy concerns.

Tensions Rise:
Relations soured as the Biden administration labeled Bangladesh’s general elections “unfair and not free”, and announced visa restrictions on Bangladeshi officials and politicians. The US has used Bangladesh as a test case for its value-based foreign policy, advocating for human rights, democratic principles, and free elections.

Geopolitical Importance:
The US views Bangladesh as crucial to its Indo-Pacific Strategy due to its geostrategic position and economic growth. Bangladesh is a major partner for the US, with significant trade and investment ties.

Human Rights Concerns:
Since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, the US has been a significant ally. However, the US has criticized Bangladesh for human rights violations, imposing sanctions on high-level officials. US Ambassador Peter Haas has been vocal about the human rights situation, emphasizing the Biden administration’s focus on democracy and human rights.

Sheikh Hasina’s Criticism:
Hasina has criticized the US for its handling of human rights and democracy, accusing Washington of conspiring against her government and seeking regime change in Bangladesh. She claimed that the US aims to establish control over Bangladesh similarly to its actions in other Muslim countries.

Protests and US-Bangladesh Programs:
Protests erupted in Washington, D.C., during Hasina’s visit for the 50-year World Bank partnership celebration, highlighting alleged autocracy and economic mismanagement. The US remains Bangladesh’s third-largest trading partner, the top market for its Ready-Made Garments (RMG), and a major investor in its energy sector.