The student protests in Bangladesh quickly escalated into a political upheaval, leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning and leaving the country. Currently, she is temporarily in India but is seeking political asylum. The UK was initially considered but now appears to be nearly ruled out. Many politicians have sought refuge in the US, but this too seems challenging for the Bangladeshi leader. So, which countries are potential options for Hasina?
US-Bangladesh Relations
The US has consistently expressed its intent to help reduce Islamic extremism in Bangladesh. However, significant changes have occurred in recent months. According to AFP via News18, the US imposed visa restrictions on Hasina, labeling her as a dictator. President Joe Biden even described the recent elections in Bangladesh as unfair and not free. The US has accused the country of human rights violations.
In response, Hasina accused Washington of meddling in her country’s affairs. This tension led to Washington canceling visas for Hasina and several Bangladeshi leaders, making US asylum unlikely.
Source: aajtak
What other options are available?
Given the current situation, neither Hasina nor her close associates have openly discussed possible countries for asylum. Potential countries are also avoiding public statements on the matter. Several reports suggest that since Hasina has close connections in Finland, she might go there. Finland would also allow her children, who live in the US and UK, to visit. However, Finland has not officially endorsed or opposed this.
Will Putin offer refuge?
Russia could be a good option, but there are complications. Relations between Hasina and Russia have been strong, even amid thousands of sanctions on Russia. Last October, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced nuclear fuel support for Bangladesh’s Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. Besides nuclear partnerships, Bangladesh expressed a desire to join BRICS, aligning with Russia, Brazil, China, India, and South Africa. Hasina's interest in BRICS indicates a shift away from Western powers.
Why isn’t Hasina heading to Russia?
There have been no statements from Russia, Hasina, or her family on this matter. If Russia grants Hasina political asylum, it could weaken ties with countries friendly to Hasina, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Also, Russia is embroiled in a conflict with Ukraine, so it’s unclear how much support it can extend to a leader labeled a dictator.
Source: aajtak
Could Muslim countries be an option?
A Financial Express report hints that the UAE and Saudi Arabia could be potential options. Both countries have maintained neutrality on this issue and have a history of offering political asylum. As Muslim nations, they might welcome Hasina. However, discussions about these countries are still in early stages. The exact outcome remains uncertain, as many countries might refrain from offering asylum due to the US and UK’s stance on Hasina. Providing political help could lead to significant geopolitical changes.
What is Political Asylum?
Political asylum is the right of an individual to live in a foreign country due to political or social persecution in their home country. Mentioned in Article 14 of the United Nations, asylum is not obligatory; it’s at the discretion of the host country. The country offering political asylum is responsible for the safety of the asylum seeker.
