Bangladesh launches national roadmap for ethical, inclusive and rights-based AI development

Bangladesh has released its first AI Readiness Assessment Report, providing a national roadmap to guide ethical, inclusive and citizen-centred adoption of artificial intelligence across public services. Unveiled in Dhaka with government, industry, academic and civil society stakeholders, the report marks a pivotal step as the country moves toward an AI-driven future.
The assessment highlights key strengths, including strong progress in e-government services and high public trust in digital platforms. It also identifies major challenges: connectivity gaps, persistent digital divides, limited computing capacity and the need for enhanced data protection and cybersecurity frameworks.
As Bangladesh finalises its National AI Policy, officials emphasised the need for evidence-based decision-making and rights-driven governance structures to ensure AI supports—not harms—citizens. International partners underscored that the choices made today will determine whether AI narrows or deepens inequalities.
Stakeholders stressed that AI must improve services across healthcare, education, justice and social protection while safeguarding vulnerable communities and preventing bias. The roadmap provides clear direction for institutions aiming to deploy AI responsibly and align national development with global best practices.