In 2024, Bangladesh ranked as one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with a population reaching 171.6 million, according to census data from Trading Economics. The country has a unique and complex history. Once known as East Pakistan, it emerged as an independent nation in 1971 following a bloody conflict with West Pakistan, which also involved India.
Since gaining independence, Bangladesh experienced 15 years under military rule and only restored democracy in 1990. However, political stability remains an ongoing challenge for the country.
Environmentally, Bangladesh faces substantial risks. As a low-lying deltaic region, it is highly vulnerable to flooding and cyclones and is expected to be among the countries most affected by rising sea levels due to climate change.
Geopolitically, Bangladesh holds a strategic position. It shares a long border with India and lies close to the economically dynamic Southeast Asian region, making stronger regional integration, particularly with ASEAN, a logical ambition.
Bangladesh’s Journey Toward ASEAN
Bangladesh has long expressed a desire to deepen its relationship with ASEAN.
In 2020, the country applied for "sectoral dialogue partner" status, which requires active participation in at least two areas of ASEAN cooperation, such as trade, economy, science, or technology.
This designation is considered a stepping stone toward full ASEAN membership.
Why Bangladesh Wants to Join ASEAN
Bangladesh’s motivation to become part of ASEAN is shaped by several interconnected factors. Demographically, it enjoys a youth-dominated population, offering a demographic dividend that could support economic expansion and innovation. This makes the country an attractive emerging market for ASEAN economies.
From an economic standpoint, Bangladesh has shown impressive growth over the past decade. It is a major exporter of textiles and is seeking to increase its role in regional supply chains. ASEAN membership could further open up market access, boost foreign investment, and support industrial collaboration in areas like logistics and manufacturing.
On the geopolitical front, joining ASEAN aligns with Bangladesh’s aspiration to play a more prominent role in the Indo-Pacific region while balancing its relationships with India and China. ASEAN is seen as a strategic platform to expand diplomatic influence and develop multilateral partnerships.
Why Bangladesh Is Seeking Malaysia’s Support
Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN chair in 2025, is seen as a crucial partner in Bangladesh’s pursuit of ASEAN ties. The two countries already enjoy strong bilateral relations, particularly in labor cooperation. Thousands of Bangladeshi migrant workers have long contributed to Malaysia’s construction and informal sectors.
Given Malaysia’s diplomatic experience and central position within ASEAN this year, Bangladesh believes Kuala Lumpur can play a key role in building consensus among member states, especially those still uncertain about Dhaka’s readiness to join.
With Malaysia in a leadership role, Dhaka sees a timely opportunity to reinvigorate its diplomatic campaign and gain more regional support.
The Challenges Ahead
Despite its enthusiasm, Bangladesh’s path to ASEAN membership won’t be easy. The case of Timor-Leste provides a cautionary precedent. Though Timor-Leste applied for membership in 2011, it only received in-principle approval in 2022 and is expected to become ASEAN’s 11th member by the end of 2025.
One of the key hurdles is ASEAN’s consensus-based decision-making model. Every major decision must receive unanimous agreement, making new admissions inherently complex.
In Timor-Leste’s case, some members, such as Singapore, raised concerns about institutional and economic readiness. Bangladesh could face similar scrutiny.
Moreover, the internal instability in Myanmar continues to test ASEAN’s cohesion. Expanding the bloc’s membership amid such challenges may be viewed as risky by some states, particularly if the new candidate is perceived as not yet meeting ASEAN’s institutional standards.
Is ASEAN Ready for Expansion?
The question remains: Is ASEAN prepared to welcome Bangladesh into the fold? The country brings significant potential, economic momentum, youthful demographics, and a strategic geographic location.
But like Timor-Leste, its road to membership depends heavily on diplomacy, internal reforms, and the ability to meet ASEAN’s expectations.
Malaysia’s current leadership provides an opening, but success will also depend on Bangladesh’s efforts to reassure other member states of its readiness.
Should Bangladesh be the next country to join ASEAN?
