Sustainable Peace in Chittagong Hill Tracts Crucial for National Stability, Says Iftekharuzzaman
Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), has emphasized that establishing sustainable peace in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) is essential for achieving lasting peace across the entire country. He stated that addressing the conflict in the CHT requires more than just curbing the activities of armed groups. It is imperative to tackle the root causes of the conflict and the long-standing mistrust that has fueled it. Iftekharuzzaman believes that without peace in the CHT region, the nation as a whole cannot attain enduring stability. His remarks highlight the interconnectedness of regional security and national well-being, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to conflict resolution in the CHT.
The statement by Dr. Iftekharuzzaman highlights a critical governance challenge: the perpetuation of conflict due to unaddressed root causes and historical mistrust, even when overt armed group activity is suppressed. This dynamic suggests that security-focused approaches alone are insufficient for achieving sustainable peace. Future policy considerations should explore mechanisms for genuine reconciliation, equitable resource distribution, and inclusive political representation to dismantle the underlying incentives for conflict in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Failure to do so risks continued instability, impacting national development and security in the long term.
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