ABSTRACT
The People's Republic of Bangladesh, the fourth largest Muslim nation, with a population of 139 million, is commonly known for being victimized by frequently recurring natural disasters such as cyclones and floods. Enveloped by India, Burma, and the Bay of Bengal, the South Asian nation suffers from weak democratic institutions, pervasive corruption, and rampant poverty. In recent years, moreover, Bangladesh's moderate image has been called into question. Islamist elements and anti-American views have worked their way to the forefront of the country's consciousness following the September 11, 2001, attacks and the subsequent U.S.-led global War on Terrorism. Interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq by the United States and public diplomacy in the Middle East have further provided Islamists in Bangladesh with fodder to espouse their anti-American sentiments. Rumors and reports indicate that al Qaeda and Taliban elements may have taken refuge in the country after their routing from Afghanistan by the United States.
