Distinguished Professor Ali Riaz has published an analysis of the economic recovery of Bangladesh during the pandemic.
Recent reports and projections by the government claim that the country’s economy is making remarkable turnaround from the initial shock from Covid-19. The paper is published by the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), a Washington, D.C. based think tank. Riaz, in the paper titled “Bangladesh’s Economic ‘Recovery’ in the COVID-19 Era: A Paradox, A Puzzle Or Mirage?” argues that while some economists have become euphoric, there are reasons for healthy skepticism about the trajectory. Some of the economic indicators are positive, but others do not show a good trajectory. Besides, the number of infections has remained high, and corruption continue to pose a serious threat to the recovery. Riaz expresses concerns about whether the “recovery” will be inclusive.
He also cautions that international assistance the country is receiving to combat the pandemic may engender corruption due to lack of transparency. Considering that the mechanism for accountability and transparency have deteriorated in recent years, donors and international watchdogs should remain vigilant
