Dhaka – The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has introduced a groundbreaking taxation policy targeting social media influencers and digital content creators across Bangladesh, marking a significant shift in how digital income is regulated in the country.This policy requires influencers earning through sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, digital product promotions, livestreaming tips, brand collaborations, and platform ad revenues—such as from YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok—to formally declare their income and pay taxes like other professionals. The initiative is part of the government's broader push to bring the booming digital economy under fiscal oversight and enhance national revenue collection.“Digital creators are now part of the economy — they must contribute like others,” said a senior NBR official. “We cannot leave such a rapidly growing sector untaxed while other industries bear the burden.”   Why Now?   Over the last few years, Bangladesh has seen a dramatic rise in the number of content creators. From tech reviewers and food bloggers to lifestyle influencers and online educators, thousands of individuals now generate substantial earnings online—some reportedly earning Tk 50,000 to over Tk 5 lakh per month. Yet, most of this income has so far gone untaxed due to the informal nature of these operations and lack of regulatory clarity. With the digital economy contributing billions to GDP, the NBR views this as a crucial moment to establish fiscal responsibility in the sector.   A Rapidly Expanding Digital Landscape Platform Estimated Bangladeshi Users Common Income Sources Facebook 45+ million Page ads, brand deals, sales YouTube 30+ million viewers AdSense, sponsorships, merch Instagram 10+ million Fashion and beauty partnerships TikTok 20+ million Short-form video promotion income   Mixed Reactions from Creators   The announcement has sparked a wave of responses among Bangladesh’s digital creators. Some influencers welcome the move as a step toward greater legitimacy and recognition of their profession. “If I’m treated like a business, I’ll run it like one,” said Mehzabin Akter, a Dhaka-based makeup influencer with 500K followers. Others fear the complex paperwork, new compliance responsibilities, and reduced net earnings could discourage newcomers or disrupt smaller creators’ operations.“I make less than Tk 30,000 a month from affiliate links. If I need to hire an accountant, pay taxes, and file returns, it’s just not worth it,” said Rajib Hossain, a tech YouTuber from Rajshahi.   Advice from Tax Professionals   They recommend: Keeping digital invoices and receipts for all income Recording payments from platforms like Google AdSense and TikTok Creator Fund Maintaining contracts for sponsored posts and brand deals Consulting professionals for annual tax filing assistance Experts also point out that in many cases, only income exceeding a specific threshold (Tk 3 lakh annually) will be subject to taxation, meaning smaller creators may fall below the taxable line—but must still report their income.   Looking Ahead   This policy is just the beginning. The government plans to roll out education campaigns, webinars, and digital guides to help influencers understand their obligations and avoid penalties. Talks are also underway about possibly introducing flat tax schemes or digital income brackets specifically for freelance and creator-based work. Moreover, some officials believe this could eventually pave the way for government-verified digital creator licenses or IDs, opening the door to greater access to loans, business registration, and legal protections for creators.   Final Thought   As Bangladesh’s digital content economy matures, the line between passion and profession continues to blur. The NBR’s move signals that social media stardom now comes with not just followers and fame—but financial accountability. While the new rules may pose initial challenges, they also reflect growing respect for the industry as a legitimate and powerful economic force. The real test will be in how smoothly both influencers and the tax system can adapt to this digital shift.

In a growing digital crisis, Bangladesh is witnessing a surge in deepfake videos—AI-generated clips that manipulate faces and voices to depict politicians, celebrities, and public figures saying or doing things they never actually did. The spread of these hyper-realistic videos across platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok has sparked widespread panic, misinformation, and serious reputational harm. Many of these videos are politically charged, featuring high-profile leaders in fabricated scandals or issuing fake statements. The trend has intensified ahead of the upcoming national elections, raising alarms about potential manipulation of public opinion and election integrity.   The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has issued a strong warning to internet users, urging them not to share unverified or manipulated videos. It stressed that spreading such content—knowingly or unknowingly—could lead to legal action under the Digital Security Act, especially if it threatens national stability or individual dignity. “We are closely monitoring social platforms. Anyone found distributing harmful deepfakes may face legal consequences,” said a BTRC spokesperson.   Digital misinformation is not new, but deepfakes represent a new level of threat. Unlike simple text-based rumors or poorly edited images, these AI-generated videos can deceive even savvy users, making it harder to distinguish fact from fiction. “People believe what they see,” said Dr. Anika Rahman, a media literacy expert. “When a video appears authentic, it spreads faster and causes more damage—even if it’s later proven fake.” Citizens have reported cases where deepfakes have led to street protests, calls for boycotts, and even harassment of innocent individuals, especially when the content is politically or religiously sensitive.   Deepfakes are created using artificial intelligence techniques, particularly deep learning and facial recognition technology. They replace or manipulate faces and voices in videos with startling accuracy, often using just a few photos or audio samples of the target person. Technology Used Purpose Risk Level Deep Learning AI Mimic facial expressions High Voice Cloning Reproduce speech patterns High GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks) Make visuals look real Very High   Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok are under growing pressure from both governments and civil society to ramp up content moderation systems. While they all claim to use AI tools to detect and block deepfakes, users and watchdogs argue the response is too slow. “We are working with global AI experts to flag and remove deepfakes faster,” said a Facebook South Asia representative. “But the volume of content makes instant moderation very challenging.” Critics say harmful videos often stay up for hours or even days, allowing millions to view, share, and believe the false content before takedowns happen.   Experts believe that more than just tech solutions are needed. Public awareness, media literacy campaigns, and robust fact-checking services must accompany digital platform efforts.Some digital rights groups in Bangladesh are also calling for specific deepfake legislation, similar to what countries like the US and Singapore have introduced. This could include: Criminal penalties for malicious creators Faster platform accountability Mandatory deepfake disclosures for entertainment or satire Verify videos with trusted news outlets Use reverse image/video tools (e.g., InVID or Google Lens) Report suspicious content immediately Avoid sharing unverified clips, even “just for fun”   As AI technology continues to evolve, deepfakes will likely become even harder to detect—and even more persuasive. In a digital world flooded with content, truth is now something we must consciously search for. For Bangladesh, a country with over 50 million active social media users, the deepfake challenge is not just a tech issue—it’s a threat to democracy, security, and trust. How the government, platforms, and citizens respond will shape the future of digital credibility in the nation.

In a time when digital transformation is reshaping every corner of the globe, one of the most remarkable changes is happening quietly in rural areas of countries like Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan — where YouTube is revolutionizing education. With limited access to quality teachers, outdated textbooks, and overcrowded classrooms, students in rural communities are increasingly turning to YouTube learning channels to supplement or even replace traditional schooling.   Thanks to the rise of affordable smartphones and expanding 4G networks, even in remote villages, platforms like YouTube have become virtual classrooms. Students can now watch free, high-quality educational content from renowned platforms such as Khan Academy, Ten Minute School, Unacademy, BYJU’S, and Exam Preparation BD. These channels offer lessons in mathematics, science, language learning, general knowledge, and test preparation — all delivered in engaging formats and often in regional languages like Bangla, Hindi, or Tamil. This accessibility has democratized learning, removing barriers of geography, cost, and availability of trained educators. Key Statistics: 68% of rural students in Bangladesh with access to smartphones report using YouTube for educational purposes (Digital Inclusion Survey, 2024). Ten Minute School boasts over 3 million subscribers and provides over 10,000 free video lectures aligned with Bangladesh’s national curriculum. In India, Unacademy and BYJU’S serve over 50 million students, with significant growth in rural user bases. For students like Mim Akter, a ninth grader from rural Khulna, this shift is life-changing: “Our school lacks science teachers. Now I watch chemistry classes on YouTube in the evenings. I never thought I’d understand atoms and molecules this way.” Similarly, in places where power cuts and poor infrastructure often halt schooling, students can download lessons offline, watch at their own pace, and replay concepts until fully understood. YouTube allows asynchronous learning, letting students learn when and how they want — something especially important for girls and working youth who cannot attend school full-time. YouTube learning channels are also addressing practical skill-building. Rural youth are learning computer literacy, graphic design, agricultural tips, tailoring, and even small business skills. Channels like Krishi Sheba BD help farmers with crop rotation, organic pesticide methods, and seasonal crop planning, while others teach computer skills and mobile repair — skills that directly improve livelihoods.   Popular Learning Topics in Rural Areas via YouTube: SSC & HSC Exam Preparation Basic English Speaking and Writing Science Experiments and Visual Learning Government Job Test Prep (BCS, Bank, Railway) Computer Basics and Freelancing Skills Agricultural Training and Farming Methods But this progress doesn’t come without concerns. Experts warn of digital fatigue, misinformation, and distraction. Not all content is credible, and rural learners — often new to the internet — may fall prey to low-quality or misleading videos. To counter this, digital literacy training and school-supported content curation are becoming essential. Schools and NGOs are beginning to integrate curated YouTube playlists into classroom routines to ensure content relevance and safety. Policy experts and educators are now calling for formal integration of digital tools into rural education policies. Many suggest partnerships between national education boards and popular learning channels to certify content, track learning progress, and provide internet subsidies to disadvantaged students.   Despite these challenges, YouTube has become an equalizer — a bridge over the urban-rural education divide. It has opened up new paths for self-learners, dropouts, and underserved youth, empowering them to dream beyond their limitations. In regions where education once seemed like a privilege, YouTube is now the teacher, the classroom, and the library — all rolled into one.

Chattogram, July 20, 2025 — In the bustling alleys of Bangladesh’s cities and towns, the age-old cries of street vendors are being steadily replaced by the silent buzz of smartphones. Facebook Marketplace has quietly emerged as a game-changer for thousands of small vendors across the country, redefining how business is done in an increasingly digital world. From clothing and accessories to electronics and handmade crafts, sellers who once relied on door-to-door sales or modest market stalls are now turning to social media to reach a nationwide customer base — without the overhead of physical storefronts.   Take the story of Jahidul Islam from Comilla. Once dependent on walking door to door with a heavy bag of clothes, he now operates from his home with a smartphone and a Facebook page. “I used to knock on 20 doors a day just to sell a few pieces,” he said. “Now, I post pictures online and get orders from all over the country — sometimes even from outside Bangladesh.” His story reflects a wider trend sweeping through both rural and urban Bangladesh: the rise of the digital entrepreneur.   This digital shift, accelerated by increased smartphone penetration and affordable internet, is not only transforming commerce — it's changing lives. For many small vendors, particularly women, students, and low-income individuals, Facebook Marketplace provides a flexible, low-cost entry into business. Housewives are turning into online boutique owners. University students are selling gadgets or fashion items between classes. In places where job opportunities are limited, online selling offers a sense of economic independence and self-worth.   The Impact at a Glance: Aspect Before Marketplace After Marketplace Startup cost High (shop rent, permits) Low (smartphone & internet) Customer reach Local only Nationwide (even diaspora) Business hours Limited to market hours 24/7 availability Job creation Minimal Growing micro-entrepreneurship Female participation Low Significantly increasing   However, this success is not without its complications. With the rise in popularity of Facebook-based businesses, there has also been an increase in fraudulent activities. From misleading product photos and fake brands to outright scams where customers pay but never receive their orders, the lack of formal regulation and oversight is becoming a serious concern. Consumer rights groups report a growing number of complaints related to online transactions, with many victims having little to no legal recourse.“Fraudulent pages are popping up every day,” warns Tania Kabir, a digital rights activist in Dhaka. “People are losing money, and there's no centralized system to hold these vendors accountable. We need government and platform-level regulation that doesn’t hurt honest sellers but protects consumers.”   The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has also acknowledged the need for stronger oversight. Efforts are underway to create a verified seller badge for trustworthy Facebook businesses, as well as a dedicated complaint mechanism linked to the Ministry of Commerce’s consumer rights protection wing. But implementation remains slow, and many sellers remain wary of any policies that may increase their operational costs or introduce red tape. Despite the challenges, Facebook Marketplace continues to flourish. Its success also hints at a larger opportunity — the possibility of creating a more structured, digitally-driven small business ecosystem in Bangladesh. If paired with training in digital literacy, basic e-commerce, and customer service, this grassroots online economy could significantly reduce unemployment and increase income in low- and middle-income communities.   Experts suggest that future success lies in partnerships between government, tech platforms, and local NGOs to create support systems for these digital entrepreneurs. Programs offering microloans, digital marketing training, and platform accountability could ensure that Facebook Marketplace continues to be not just a trend, but a long-term driver of economic change. For now, in towns like Chattogram, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Comilla, Facebook Marketplace is more than a tool — it’s a livelihood. A digital lifeline that empowers the ambitious, supports families, and brings business to doorsteps — not with a knock, but with a notification.   Bottom Line: As Bangladesh navigates its way through economic transitions, Facebook Marketplace has emerged as a powerful enabler of digital entrepreneurship. With proper support, regulation, and consumer protection, this informal sector could become a formal force in shaping the future of the country’s economy.

In an era where attention spans are short and social change demands urgency, TikTok has emerged as a powerful new platform for youth-driven activism. What started as a space for dance trends and lip-sync videos has quickly evolved into a vibrant ecosystem where young people are using 15–60 second clips to challenge injustice, raise awareness, and mobilize support for social causes.From climate change protests to gender rights, mental health awareness to political commentary, TikTok’s short-form video format has proven uniquely suited to sparking dialogue and capturing the emotions behind movements. Activists across Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, and beyond are using the platform not just for expression — but for education and mobilization.   One powerful example includes the #StudentVoices movement in Bangladesh, where students shared videos demanding reforms in the education system, including calls for more inclusive policies and better mental health support in schools. These clips went viral, sparking mainstream media attention and responses from education officials. Similarly, during the Rohingya refugee crisis or after environmental disasters, TikTokers in South Asia created donation drives, fact-based explainers, and firsthand videos from affected zones — showing the platform’s potential for real-time grassroots journalism.   In Manila, a TikTok series debunking election misinformation was viewed over 4 million times, mostly by first-time voters.However, this new wave of digital activism is not without challenges. Critics argue that “slacktivism” — where users feel satisfied simply by liking or sharing posts — may replace real-world engagement. There’s also concern about misinformation, content censorship, and the potential misuse of algorithms that may suppress marginalized voices.   Despite these concerns, educators and social researchers recognize TikTok’s potential as an entry point for civic education and social awareness. Many NGOs and advocacy groups now collaborate with TikTok creators to reach younger demographics with accurate, inspiring, and mobilizing content.With over 1 billion users globally, and over 60% under the age of 30, TikTok is not just shaping how youth consume content — it’s shaping how they participate in the world. As digital native generations come of age, their activism is taking new forms — and TikTok, for all its controversies, is proving to be one of their loudest megaphones.

Dhaka – In today’s Bangladesh, politics is no longer confined to public rallies or television talk shows — it’s playing out every day on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok. As the country heads toward its next general election, social media has become a powerful tool for political communication, grassroots organizing, and public debate.Political parties, independent candidates, and youth activists are all turning to social platforms to reach the public directly. Videos, livestreams, memes, and campaign reels now shape political narratives faster than traditional media ever could.   “Social media lets us speak directly to the people, without gatekeepers,” said Arman Chowdhury, a digital campaign manager for a leading political party. “In 2025, a viral post can shift public opinion overnight.”According to the Bangladesh Election Monitoring Forum, over 60% of first-time voters rely on social media as their primary source of political information. Parties are investing heavily in digital teams, influencer partnerships, and content creators to boost engagement and shape perception. But the rise of digital politics has a darker side. Misinformation, hate speech, and coordinated disinformation campaigns are spreading rapidly, often polarizing communities and confusing voters.   During the recent city elections, fake polls and deepfake videos circulated widely, prompting the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to issue warnings and take down dozens of misleading posts. “Social media is both a blessing and a threat to democracy,” said Dr. Nilufa Yasmin, a political science professor at Dhaka University. “It amplifies voices but also enables manipulation. Regulation and media literacy are urgently needed.” Civic groups and digital watchdogs are calling for stronger transparency from platforms like Facebook and TikTok regarding political ads, fake accounts, and bot-driven propaganda.   Meanwhile, social media has empowered a new generation of digital activists — from environmentalists and women's rights advocates to student leaders. Hashtags like #SaveTheSundarbans, #JusticeForNusrat, and #DigitalBangladesh have sparked national conversations and even led to real-world policy changes. “I use my Instagram to talk about climate justice and education reform,” said Tania Haque, a 22-year-old activist from Narayanganj. “Even if we’re not on TV, we have a voice — and it’s loud.” However, concerns about digital surveillance and freedom of expression persist. Several users have reported account suspensions or harassment after posting critical content about powerful figures or institutions.   As social media continues to shape politics in real time, experts urge voters to verify sources, think critically, and avoid echo chambers. “Don’t believe everything you see on your feed,” warned BTRC spokesperson Shahinul Islam. “Use technology, but stay aware.” With elections looming, the digital battlefield is heating up — and in 2025, a single post, video, or hashtag could change the course of the nation.

Dhaka – The Bangladesh government is ramping up efforts to combat fake news and harmful content on social media, following a wave of misinformation surrounding recent political events and public health issues. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in coordination with the BTRC, is drafting new regulations that would require global platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and X to open local offices, respond to content removal requests within 24 hours, and increase transparency in algorithmic content distribution. “Misinformation spreads faster than ever, especially during crises,” said ICT Division spokesperson Rashedul Karim. “These rules will protect citizens and national stability.” Experts welcome the move but warn against overreach. “Content moderation must not infringe on freedom of speech,” noted digital rights advocate Shireen Afroz. Social media companies say they are enhancing AI-based moderation tools and improving user reporting systems. However, critics argue current efforts are inadequate, as false claims often go viral before action is taken. Meanwhile, digital literacy campaigns are being launched to help users verify information and avoid manipulation. As Bangladesh continues to embrace the digital world, balancing security and free expression remains a growing challenge.

Dhaka – Social media has become the heartbeat of youth culture in 2025, influencing everything from fashion and music to language and identity. For millions of teenagers and young adults in Bangladesh and across the globe, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are not just digital tools — they are cultural spaces where trends are born, shared, and reshaped every hour. According to a recent study by the Centre for Digital Youth, over 85% of teenagers in urban Bangladesh spend more than three hours daily on social media. The report highlights how these platforms have evolved into powerful agents of influence — changing how the younger generation dresses, speaks, socializes, and even views the world. “I get all my ideas from social media — what to wear, what to listen to, what new spots to hang out at,” said Samiya Rahman, a 17-year-old student from Dhaka. “Sometimes I feel like I’m living two lives — one offline, one online.” TikTok, in particular, remains the most influential platform among youth. Viral challenges, dance routines, cooking hacks, fashion transitions, and motivational reels dominate the feed. Bangladeshi content creators like Tanzim Khan, Oishee Rahman, and Fahim Vlogs have become household names among Gen Z followers. Instagram, on the other hand, is still the go-to for curated personal branding. Young people use Stories and Reels to document their daily lives, achievements, activism, and style — often edited with filters, music, and effects to match aesthetic trends. But with this hyper-connectivity comes a complex web of pressures. Digital comparison, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the pursuit of perfection have led to rising anxiety, low self-esteem, and screen dependency. “Social media is giving young people a platform to express themselves, but also putting them under enormous pressure to look perfect and stay ‘on trend,’” said Dr. Mahbuba Sultana, a child psychologist. “We need more open conversations around digital wellness.” Peer influence is also shifting. Instead of traditional role models like athletes or actors, teens are now following micro-influencers and content creators who speak their language and share their struggles. Topics like mental health, gender identity, climate change, and self-love are gaining traction — often started by young users themselves. In response to growing concerns, some schools are introducing digital citizenship classes to teach students how to use social media responsibly, spot misinformation, and balance screen time with real-life interactions. Despite the concerns, many believe social media has given the youth more freedom, visibility, and voice than any generation before. “I’ve learned more about confidence, culture, and creativity from my TikTok feed than from my textbooks,” said Ayman Nafi, an 18-year-old aspiring content creator from Sylhet. “It’s where we all connect and grow.” As the youth continue to define their generation online, experts call for greater digital literacy, parental understanding, and platform responsibility to ensure that the online world remains a space for empowerment — not pressure.

Dhaka – In 2025, social media has evolved far beyond entertainment and status updates — it's now a booming hub for business, employment, and personal branding. From job seekers to entrepreneurs, millions are using platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram to generate income and build careers in the digital economy. With the growth of freelancing and e-commerce, social media has become the new résumé for many in Bangladesh and around the world. Online platforms now serve as digital offices, marketplaces, and career development spaces, offering both opportunities and challenges in the rapidly changing job landscape. LinkedIn, once limited to corporate professionals, is now attracting students, freelancers, and small business owners. Job postings, networking groups, and skill-building videos are seeing record engagement. In Bangladesh alone, LinkedIn users have crossed 7 million, with many companies hiring directly through the platform. “I got my last two projects through LinkedIn,” said Arafat Rahman, a freelance graphic designer from Khulna. “I don’t need an agency — just a strong profile and a portfolio online.” Meanwhile, Facebook and Instagram are fueling the rise of small online businesses. According to a report by the e-Commerce Association of Bangladesh (e-CAB), over 500,000 small businesses now operate via social media, many run by women, students, and rural entrepreneurs. “The demand for digital marketing skills has exploded,” said Tanima Haque, who runs a digital training center in Rajshahi. “Young people are learning SEO, video editing, and social media management because these are real, bankable skills today.” The phenomenon of content creators or influencers has also grown into a full-fledged profession. From YouTubers and TikTokers to Instagram vloggers, creators are partnering with brands and earning through sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and live streams. Some are even launching their own product lines and mobile apps. But the trend has its drawbacks. Experts warn of rising competition, burnout, and income instability in the influencer economy. Platforms frequently change their algorithms, making it hard for creators to maintain steady reach and engagement. “There is a dark side to social media fame,” said Dr. Tasfia Nawar, a media analyst. “Many creators feel pressure to constantly produce content and stay relevant, which affects their mental health.” In response, several startups are building tools to help digital workers better manage income, track analytics, and protect their well-being. Government initiatives are also catching up. The ICT Division of Bangladesh has launched new training programs to promote youth employment through digital platforms, especially in rural areas. Some universities have even added social media and digital entrepreneurship courses to their curriculum. As the lines blur between personal and professional life, experts stress the need for digital ethics, transparency, and financial literacy in this new era of online careers. “Social media is no longer optional,” said Imran Kabir, a career coach in Dhaka. “If you’re not on it, you’re invisible — but you also need to know how to use it wisely.” With digital connectivity growing every day, social media isn’t just shaping how people communicate — it’s reshaping how people work, earn, and dream in the 21st century.

Dhaka – Social media platforms have become an inseparable part of daily life in 2025, with more people than ever using apps like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube not just for entertainment, but for business, education, and even healthcare. According to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), over 75 million people in the country are now active social media users, a sharp increase from just two years ago. The growth has been fueled by better internet access, cheaper smartphones, and the rise of content creators and influencers across urban and rural areas. “From a remote village to a busy city, everyone is online now,” said Shamsul Alam, a digital marketing expert based in Dhaka. “Even farmers are using Facebook to sell their products. It’s not just about fun anymore — it’s become a lifeline.” In 2025, TikTok continues to dominate among young users, with educational, cooking, comedy, and motivational videos gaining millions of views daily. Meanwhile, platforms like Instagram and Facebook are still widely used for communication and online shopping. However, the rapid growth comes with serious concerns. A recent study by Dhaka University found that over 60% of young users experience stress, anxiety, or sleep problems related to excessive social media use. The study also warned about rising cyberbullying, body image issues, and addiction among teenagers. Parents and teachers are increasingly worried. “My daughter spends more time on her phone than on homework,” said Nazma Akter, a parent from Chattogram. “It’s affecting her concentration and mood.” Government agencies have also raised red flags over misinformation and fake news, which continue to spread rapidly on social media. During recent political events and natural disasters, several viral posts were found to be misleading or completely false. To combat this, the BTRC has strengthened monitoring and urged global platforms to increase content moderation and transparency in Bangladesh. Some new policies are being discussed that may require social media companies to open local offices and respond more quickly to content removal requests. Despite the risks, social media remains a powerful tool for small businesses, freelancers, and activists. Online stores are booming, and digital entrepreneurs are finding new ways to grow through Facebook Marketplace, Instagram Shops, and live video promotions. “Social media changed my life,” said Rina Begum, who runs a successful home-based clothing business on Instagram. “I went from zero to hundreds of orders without ever opening a physical store.” As Bangladesh navigates this digital era, experts say the focus must shift toward digital literacy, responsible usage, and mental health awareness. With proper education and regulation, social media can continue to be a force for good — connecting people, empowering communities, and opening new doors for the future.

Dhaka – Social media platforms have reached a new milestone in 2025, with global usage crossing 5.2 billion active users, according to a recent report by DataReportal. Bangladesh is no exception to this trend, as more than 60% of the population now actively uses platforms like Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram for news, entertainment, shopping, and communication. The explosive growth is being driven by faster internet access, cheaper smartphones, and the increasing popularity of short-form video content. TikTok remains the fastest-growing platform, while Facebook still holds the largest user base in the country. “I use Facebook and WhatsApp daily to stay connected with my family and friends,” said Nahid Hossain, a university student in Dhaka. “But lately, I’ve been spending more time on TikTok because the videos are fun and short.” However, the rise in screen time has raised serious concerns among health experts and educators. Studies show that excessive social media use is linked to anxiety, depression, and poor sleep, especially among teenagers and young adults. “We are noticing a disturbing trend among adolescents,” said Dr. Farzana Rahman, a clinical psychologist. “Their attention spans are shrinking, and many of them feel pressured to present a perfect image online. It’s creating a mental health crisis.” Misinformation and fake news continue to be major challenges. Despite increased efforts by tech companies to detect and remove false content, platforms are still flooded with misleading videos, conspiracy theories, and deepfakes. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has warned against the spread of harmful content and urged platforms to take stronger actions. In a statement last month, the BTRC emphasized the need for “content moderation, transparency, and the protection of users’ digital rights.” Social media is also reshaping politics and public discourse. Politicians and public figures are using these platforms to communicate directly with followers, bypassing traditional media channels. While this offers more engagement, critics argue it also increases the risk of unchecked propaganda. Despite the downsides, businesses are embracing the digital shift. Thousands of small brands and entrepreneurs are now using Facebook and Instagram Shops, influencer marketing, and video ads to reach new audiences. “Social media changed everything for our online store,” said Nusrat Jahan, a clothing brand owner. “We don’t even need a physical shop anymore.” As social media becomes further embedded in daily life, experts call for digital literacy programs in schools, stronger regulations on platforms, and more awareness among users. The challenge remains: how to enjoy the benefits of digital connection without falling into the traps of misinformation, addiction, and mental fatigue.

As countries across the world prepare for key elections in late 2025, governments and watchdog groups are raising alarm over the spread of misinformation and deepfake content on social media platforms. In a recent incident in the Philippines, a viral AI-generated video falsely showing a presidential candidate making controversial statements was viewed over 2 million times before being flagged and removed. Similar incidents have been reported in Bangladesh, Brazil, and parts of Eastern Europe. Experts warn that AI-generated political propaganda, shared rapidly on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, can erode public trust and influence voting behavior. "Platforms must act faster. Content moderation alone isn't enough," said Dr. Sadia Khatun, a political science professor at Dhaka University. “We need stronger laws, transparent algorithms, and better public education to deal with this crisis.” Tech giants including Meta and YouTube claim to be enhancing their detection systems and increasing fact-checking partnerships ahead of the election season.