CQS Publishes Report on the State of Dis- and Misinformation During the 2024 Bangladesh National Election

The 12th general election in Bangladesh transpired on January 7, 2024, resulting in the victory of Bangladesh Awami League (BAL), securing the government for three consecutive terms. 

Sheikh Hasina now holds the distinction of being the longest-serving prime minister in Bangladesh and the world's longest-serving female prime minister (Sheikh Hasina: Longest Serving Female Prime Minister, n.d.). However, controversies surround this election, as the major political party BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) boycotted it, deeming it non-participatory. Allegedly, the ruling party contested some seats with their own party members posing as independent candidates. The Election Commission reported a total voter turnout of approximately 41% (Suhrawardy, 2024). 

This report is an exploratory study centered around dis- and misinformation circulating on social media during the election period in Bangladesh. Our data collection spanned from November 15, 2023, when the Election Commission unveiled the election schedule, to January 7, 2024, the election day. During this critical period, Bangladesh witnessed various political campaigns both in favor of and against the election. 

CQS, in collaboration with Earki, conducted research on the dissemination of disinformation during the General Election of Bangladesh 2024. The study was led by Professor Dr. Sumon Rahman and Senior Fact-checker Shuvashish Dip. It also involved contributions from research assistants Ishmam Rahim Kareeb and Yuvraj Sen from CQS.

To see the full report, please refer to the following link: https://shorturl.at/adptS.