Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has issued a stinging critique of the country’s global reputation, labeling Bangladesh a “world champion in fraud” due to the rampant use of forged documents and certificates.
Speaking at the inauguration of the four-day Digital Device and Innovation Expo 2026 on Wednesday, Muhammad Yunus expressed deep concern over how widespread forgery has eroded Bangladesh’s international credibility.
“Everything is fake. Many countries do not accept our passports. Visas are fake, passports are fake,” the Chief Adviser remarked at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
Global Credibility at Stake
The Nobel laureate highlighted that the prevalence of “factories of fraud” has led to severe consequences for Bangladeshi citizens abroad, particularly in the form of mass visa rejections. He noted that even professional sectors, such as the maritime industry, are suffering because of forged credentials.
“I have seen cases where people applied for visas using fake certificates. A woman applied as a doctor, but all her documents were forged,” he said.
He warned that while Bangladeshis are known for their intelligence and creativity, these traits are being misapplied for deceptive purposes.
Technology Must Ensure Integrity
The Chief Adviser emphasized that for Bangladesh to truly advance in the tech sector, it must pivot toward fairness and transparency. He urged the nation to move away from being a hub for fraudulent activity and instead compete on global stages through genuine merit.
“If we want to advance technologically, we must ensure fairness and integrity. We do not want this country to become a factory of fraud. We want to walk with our heads held high in the world based on our own merits,” he added.
Youth and the Digital Future
Despite the harsh criticism of current practices, Muhammad Yunus expressed optimism regarding the country’s youth. He credited the mass uprising of 2024 for opening new doors and identified the younger generation as the most powerful in history due to their command of technology.
Recalling the impact of past internet shutdowns, he noted that such restrictions only served to mobilize the youth further. “You can understand how important the internet is to them. That shutdown created such tension that even a powerful government had to flee,” he said.
The Digital Device and Innovation Expo 2026, which continues until January 31, aims to showcase local technological advancements and attract foreign investment to the ICT sector.
