The Research Division of the Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies (BCIS) is organising a live webinar examining democratic transitions in South Asia, with a comparative focus on Nepal and Bangladesh.
Over the past two decades, both countries have experienced mass popular uprisings, political instability, constitutional reforms, and contested electoral processes. While these movements raised expectations for democratic renewal, questions remain about whether electoral politics alone can restore democratic governance, accountability, and public trust.
This webinar brings together leading scholars and practitioners to critically assess the trajectories of democratic transition in Nepal and Bangladesh. The discussion will explore the role of people’s movements, political parties, state institutions, and elections in shaping post-uprising political outcomes. It will also reflect on broader implications for democratic consolidation in South Asia.
Speakers:
Prof. Sk. Tawfique M. Haque, Director, South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance
Dr. Sanjeev Humagain, Program Coordinator, Nepal Open University
The session will be moderated by Sakuna Gamage, Researcher and Program Coordinator at the Law & Society Trust.
This webinar is intended for students, researchers, policymakers, civil society actors, and anyone interested in comparative politics, democratic governance, and South Asian studies.
Date: Wednesday, 28 January 2026
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Sri Lankan Standard Time)
Platform: Live on Zoom
Organised by: Research Division, BCIS
