ABSTRACT
Ideology and external actors are two non-institutional elements that have played a crucial role in Bangladesh's autocratization process. The regime has sought legitimacy through the construction of an ideology that underscores patriotism and development. The former (labeled “the spirit of liberation”) has remained vague and has been used to create a pernicious polarization among citizens. The economic growth narrative of the country not only masked the growing wealth disparity but also hid the long-term debt issue, which became evident beginning in mid-2022. As for the role of external actors, the chapter discusses the process and causes of India's role as a catalyst and China's role as a facilitator of the autocratization process.
