Bangladesh: How does this South Asian nation perform in leading international rankings on economic competitiveness, soft power and sustainability? How well does its country brand fare in comparison to other countries in the region?
Let’s explore what international rankings and indices have to say about Bangladesh in terms of its economic performance, sustainability, country brand strength, soft power, and reputation.
Let’s take a closer look at:
- Bangladesh’s soft power and country brand strength
- Its appeal to talent, investors, and visitors
- The country’s global contribution to peace and well-being
- How well it fares in terms of happiness and sustainability
Soft Power and Brand Strength
In the Global Soft Power Index 2024 by Brand Finance, Bangladesh ranks 96th, dropping 1 position from the previous year with a score decrease of 0.5. This indicates modest challenges in enhancing its global influence and recognition.
The Best Countries 2023 report provides a multifaceted view of Bangladesh’s global standing where it ranks 69th overall. Notably, it excels in two key areas: Open for Business (30th) and Power (40th). However, its there is room for improvement in in Social Purpose (83rd), Adventure (82nd) and Heritage (82nd).
Appeal to Talent, Business, Trade, and Travel
The UNCTAD World Investment Report 2023 shows that Bangladesh’s FDI inflows for 2023 were 3.004 billion USD, a decrease of 476 million USD from the previous year. FDI outflows amounted to 30 million USD, a reduction of 23 million USD, indicating a cautious approach to overseas investments amid global economic uncertainties.
Bloom Consulting’s Country Brand Ranking Trade Edition 2024-2025 places Bangladesh 41st globally and 15th regionally, improving by two positions. This upward movement reflects positive perceptions regarding its trade potential and economic prospects.
Conversely, the Country Brand Ranking Tourism Edition 2024-2025 ranks Bangladesh 126th globally and 34th regionally, improving by five positions. This suggests ongoing challenges in promoting the nation as a desirable tourist destination, despite its rich cultural and natural attractions.
In the Numbeo Country Quality of Life Index, Bangladesh ranks 82nd, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve living standards for its citizens. Meanwhile, it stands at 117th in the Numbeo Country Cost of Living Index, indicating a relatively low cost of living compared to many other countries, which can be attractive to both locals and expatriates.
The Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023 ranks Bangladesh 123rd, dropping three positions from the previous year. Classified under the lower-middle-income group, this suggests that while progress is being made, there is still significant room for improvement in attracting and retaining skilled talent.
The country has four universities in the 801-1000 bracket, according to the World University Rankings 2024. BRAC University and North South University (NSU) are both private universities, while Jahangirnagar University and the University of Dhaka are both well established public universities.
Sustainability Performance
Bangladesh ranks 175th in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2024, placing 6th regionally. This low ranking highlights significant environmental challenges, including issues related to pollution, natural resource management, and climate resilience.
In the Sustainable Development Report 2024, Bangladesh is ranked 107th, declining by six positions from the previous year. This indicates hurdles in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas such as poverty reduction, education, and health services.
How “Good” is Bangladesh?
In the CAF World Giving Index 2023, Bangladesh ranks 105th. Notably, 68% of the population reported helping a stranger, 20% donated money, and 12% volunteered time. These figures reflect a strong sense of community and willingness to assist others despite economic constraints.
According to the Good Country Index, Bangladesh ranks 105th overall. By category, it performs best in Health and Wellbeing (31st), followed by World Order (68th), International Peace and Security (68th) and Planet and Climate (99th). There is room for improvement across the board, particularly in Science and Technology (146th), Prosperity and Equality (155th), Culture (154th).
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Democracy Index 2023 places Bangladesh at 75th, dropping two positions. This points to challenges in democratic governance and political freedoms that require ongoing attention.
Furthermore, the 2023 Corruption Perception Index ranks Bangladesh 149th, declining by two positions, which highlights persistent issues with corruption and the need for stronger transparency and accountability measures.
Peace and Happiness
The Global Peace Index 2024 ranks Bangladesh 93rd, dropping eight positions from the previous year. Despite this decline, it holds the 3rd position regionally, indicating relative stability compared to neighboring countries.
In the Global Terrorism Index 2024, Bangladesh stands at 32nd, increasing by 14 positions. This indicates that the country has faced difficulties in countering terrorism and enhancing national security.
According to the World Happiness Report 2024, based on a three-year average, Bangladesh comes 129th, declining by 11 positions.
Last updated in August 2024. Find more country profiles here.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview of Bangladesh’s economic and cultural landscape and facilitate comparison over time. While we strive for accuracy and completeness, we are not responsible for any typographical errors or inaccuracies. The data is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Users should verify any information before relying on it for decision-making purposes.
