The Global Rally for Professor Yunus: What It Signifies

In our country, a concerning smear campaign has been ongoing against Professor Yunus. Every time we turn on the TV or open a newspaper, we are bombarded with discussions and statements vilifying him, accusing him of various conspiracies. This government has persistently targeted Professor Yunus for the past 13 years, subjecting him to various forms of humiliation. Sadly, this campaign has escalated to a point where it's now affecting crucial national projects, such as the funding of the Padma Bridge. But is it fair to lay all the blame on Professor Yunus for this?

Western countries, especially Europe and America, have been advocating for a neutral election process in Bangladesh. However, it's unjust to pin this solely on Professor Yunus. Over 160 world dignitaries, including 106 Nobel laureates, have penned an open letter urging an end to the harassment he faces, much to the government's chagrin. It's worth noting that it's a rare occurrence for so many Nobel laureates to rally behind a single individual.

Some have argued that notable Indian economists Amartya Sen and Abhijit Banerjee haven't spoken out. Yet, Abhijit Banerjee and his wife, Nobel Laureate Esther Duflo, have joined the chorus in support of Professor Yunus. The overwhelming support from over 100 Nobel laureates and 60 influential world figures underscores the significance of this issue. It's crucial that we respect this global endorsement and understand its implications. Reacting out of anger may lead to more significant mistakes and harm our nation.

Critics have raised questions about Professor Yunus's actions and whereabouts. However, we must recognize that he has a unique role in our nation. He doesn't engage in political squabbles because his focus is on global issues of utmost importance. Imagine if we diverted his talent and energy into these microscopic political disputes. Noted figures like Professor Rehman Sobhan also prioritize such global concerns over local politics.

?It's essential to place the 170 individuals who support Yunus in one line and those who oppose him in another. Thousands of conflicting statements won't change the fairness of this comparison. If we could secure the endorsements of Amartya Sen and Rehman Sobhan, it would lend more credibility to the opposing view. However, those who oppose Yunus often have vested interests and fear potential losses.

Professor Yunus has contributed significantly to our nation. The government could have achieved even more by collaborating with him rather than pursuing this antagonistic approach. What do we gain from this confrontation instead of cooperation? He serves as a distinguished ambassador for Bangladesh, admired not only by the United States but also by countries like China, India, Japan, and South Africa. His enduring popularity is unmatched among Nobel laureates, and his innovative ideas in social business may even earn him another Nobel Prize in the future.

Professor Yunus, like any human, can make mistakes, but there are others in our nation who have committed more significant errors and corruption. He does not siphon money out of our country; instead, he brings in foreign investment. This should be acknowledged and appreciated. Rather than harassing and insulting him, we should consider how such actions affect Bangladesh's reputation globally.

Comparatively, consider the case of Belarus, where a Nobel laureate faces legal issues, but no one has come forward in their support. The widespread support for Yunus is unique and should be a source of pride for us. It's also notable that countries like China, Belarus, and Russia, which don't respect dissent, are behind in Nobel laureates' support.

The government's stance against America in this matter is concerning. The United States remains a global superpower, and straining our relationship with them could have detrimental economic consequences. Western countries, especially the U.S., have been generous in aiding immigrants and supporting Rohingya refugees in our country. If we jeopardize these relationships, the repercussions could be severe. It's essential to remember that America plays a pivotal role in global progress, especially in science and technology, thanks to its substantial investment in education and research. The benefits of this progress extend beyond their borders and contribute to the improved quality of life worldwide, including in our nation.

It's imperative that we adopt a more progressive and constructive approach in our discussions and actions regarding Professor Yunus and our international relationships. Focusing on collaboration, acknowledging his contributions, and maintaining healthy global partnerships will ultimately benefit Bangladesh and its people.

The original article was written by Professor Kamrul Hasan Mamun, University of Dhaka. It was translated by the power of AI and edited accordingly.