Bangladesh

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Bangladesh
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Most of Bangladesh lies within the broad delta formed by the Ganges and
Brahmaputra rivers. The land is flat, low-lying, and subject to annual flooding, which
creates agricultural challenges. It is one of the most densely populated countries in
the world, with widespread poverty.
The government strives to reduce the birth rate and improve the health and
education of its people. In addition, the government is actively pursuing policies for
supporting and encouraging private investment as well as diversifying the economy.
The 2013 collapse of a garment factory that killed more than 1,000 lives brought
global demands for better working conditions.
Onshore and offshore gas reserves could provide future prosperity if handled
properly.
With a rapid rise in Islamist extremism, the government began arresting opposition
Islamist politicians, which led to accusations that the government was suppressing
legitimate opposition.
Culture Overview
Cultural Essentials
Bangladesh has a rapidly changing culture where behaviors are dependent

upon age, exposure to Western ideas, region of origin as well as education
and socio-economic level.
Hierarchy
Bangladesh has a hierarchical culture where people are respected
because of their age and position. From childhood, Bangladeshis learn to
adjust their behavior based upon the status of the other person. Within the
family, each person is superior or inferior to someone else depending upon
their age and sex. Respect towards others is shown in the way they are
addressed. A suffix is appended to a person's name to recognize the
relationship between the speakers. Older women may be addressed as
Aunty and men as Uncle, even if there is not a relationship; people in the
same general age bracket may have brother or sister appended to their
name.
Older people are considered wise and are granted respect. The oldest
person in a group is revered and honored. In a social situation, they are
http://kpmg.culturewizard.com/DesktopModules/RW3Modules/CP2014/PrintView.aspx... 8.2.2017.
served first. Elders are introduced first and are generally provided with the
choicest morsels during meals. Bangladeshis expect the most senior male,
by age or position, to make decisions that are in the best interest of the
group.
Companies are generally extremely hierarchical, with a top-down

management structure. Titles are important since they denote status and a
persons position within the hierarchy. Subordinates address their
managers by Sir or Madam and would not address someone senior to
themselves by their first name, although this may be changing as
Generation Y makes inroads in the workplace.
Business cards may include university degrees as a visible testament to

hierarchy and status. Managers can be more autocratic than in many
Western cultures because of the respect employees have towards the
hierarchy. Concurrent with their status, however, managers have
obligations towards their staff that may extend into the personal realm.
Personal relationships / Group Harmony

Bangladeshis are willing to subjugate their own desires for the group's
greater good. Within the group, they strive to show mutual respect and
agreement. They avoid confrontation and do not embarrass each other,
since doing so would bring dishonor to the group.
This reliance on the group is shown in the close personal ties maintained
with their family. The extended family creates a myriad of
interrelationships, rules, and structures. Along with mutual obligations
comes a deep-rooted trust. Relatives can be counted on to loan money,
help find employment, offer caretaking when someone is ill, and can be
counted on in a multitude of ways when needed.
Unlike many Western cultures where business trust is based upon a

companys reputation, in Bangladesh personal relationships are the
foundation of trust. It can be very difficult to develop strong business
relationships without first forging a personal relationship.
Indirect Communication
Since group harmony and face saving are basic facets of the culture,
Bangladeshis adopt an indirect communication style. They are reluctant to
tell someone something that would be unpleasant, even if it means
withholding vital information. Likewise, they are unwilling to admit that they
do not know an answer.
For the most part, Bangladeshis strives to maintain group harmony and
respect hierarchy by telling the other person what they think is the desired
response. When they do offer a negative response, it is done in an
extremely indirect manner that is often not understood by foreigners. To
the foreigner, it may appear that Bangladeshi communication is meant to
preserve harmony more than to relay information.
If they think that the information they are about to impart will not please the
recipient, most Bangladeshis will hint at the subject or simply avoid it.
Since they are high-context communicators, they understand that not being
given a strong affirmative response is, in fact, a negative response. They
are attuned to understanding nuances such as hesitations. In general, if a

Bangladeshi repeats a question instead of answering it, they have said no.
Since Bangladeshis communicate bad news indirectly, it is important to
learn to read between the lines of what is said and hear what is not said.
Time
Given the importance Bangladeshis place on building and maintaining
relationships, it makes sense that they have a flexible view of time. It is
common for someone to postpone a task so they can see to their existing
relationships. This often means that timetables and schedules are not met.
Since people rather than timelines are given first priority, personal
relationships flourish and deadlines may not be met.
Many Bangladeshis see time as beyond their control. They expect people
to arrive late for social situations and would be distressed if someone
arrived on time. Given this free flowing view of time, meetings seldom start
on time. Bangladeshis who work in multinational companies may attempt to
be prompt, although they may not succeed.
Meetings may be canceled or postponed at the last minute because the

key person is attending to a personal relationship.
Impact of Generations
As is the case in most countries, most material on generations focuses on
the Millennials (born 1980 2000). Bangladeshi Millennials believe in the
power of technology, are optimistic about the economy and think they can
make a difference in their country. They are viewed as innovative,
technological, competitive and committed to their personal life.
Unlike previous generations who were under colonial restraints, Millennials

are a new generation that were born free of foreign intervention and have
the technological power to leverage their freedom and self-determination.
There are over one million freelancers in Bangladesh, clearly showing that
Millennials prefer an independent, self-directed future over the traditional,
conventional career paths. Entrepreneurship is the lifeblood of the
economy; Millennials are on their way to increasing the GDP and
development of the country.
Religion
Bangladesh is a predominantly Islamic country with 83% Muslims (mostly

Sunnis) and Hindu 16%. There are also a significant number of Buddhists
and Christians.
Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk
and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no
eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not
required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in
public.
Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the
breaking of the fast. The festivities often continue well into the night. In
general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses
operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual
times. Although most restaurants are closed during the day, international
hotels will serve food to non-Muslims.
Role of Women
Bangladesh is a study of contrasts concerning the way women are viewed.

On one hand, women play an important role in the economic survival of
their families, especially in rural areas. On the other hand, Islam places
women in a subordinate position to men. The culture remains patriarchal,
with clearly defined roles for men and women.
During the last two decades there has been a concerted effort to increase
female education.
Since the World Conference on Women in Mexico in 1975, Bangladesh

has been at the forefront among the least-developed countries (LDCs) in
addressing gender disparities. It has the eighth lowest gender gap in
political empowerment in the world. The country had a female head of state
for longer than any other country in the world. In addition, the proportion of
seats held by women in the national parliament doubled to 20% in 2011.
Although there are quotas for women in parliament as well as in
government sector jobs, there is no legislation to enforce compliance.
Womens increasing presence in politics has led to changes in the family

structure. The culture is slowly moving away from the traditional view that
women are an economic liability and that sons are more desirable than
daughters. Studies show that the growing independence of women is one
reason for the decrease in gender-based infanticide.
Womens participation in economic activity has increased in both rural and

urban areas. Seventy-four percent of the garments production employees
are female. In urban areas, women are often teachers, lawyers, journalists,
and government employees. Nonetheless, there is widespread
discrimination and women seldom rise to senior management or decision-
making positions. Nearly 25% of women are self-employed or freelancers,
particularly in fields such as travel, hotel, communications, and retail.
There have been many development initiatives for entrepreneurial women

in the governments Five Year Plans. There has also been an NGO-led
micro-credit revolution specifically targeting women.
In many ways, class has the greatest impact on the way a woman is
perceived in society. Status is derived from the family the father until
marriage and the husband thereafter. Educated women appear to be more
involved in decisions concerning the household and family than are lesser
educated women.
Working women in the business sector tend to be young and single. Nearly
80% of garment workers are female since they can be paid less and are
considered to be docile, nimble-fingered, and patient. Many religious
women prefer working in the garment factories because they are not
considered "public" and, therefore, are considered secure places where a
woman may work without wearing the burkha.
In urban areas, working women are often deemed desirable as wives

because they earn their own money. Having an income also often
improves a womans position within her family and affords her the status to
be consulted on important decisions.
View of Foreign Women

Foreign businesswomen can expect to be treated with respect and dignity.
When interested in foreign investment, Bengali businessmen will treat
foreign businesswomen in the same manner they would a foreign
businessman with similar credentials.
Since men are accustomed to treating women relatively formally, foreign

businesswomen should strive to maintain a professional demeanor. It is a
good idea for women to behave with professional decorum and avoid
behavior that could be considered flirtatious.
Since Bengali women seldom go out unescorted at night, a foreign woman

should not venture out alone at night.
Tips for Businesswomen

It is important that businesswomen dress conservatively and
professionally. Visiting businesswomen should act in a reserved manner
with male business colleagues. Although personal relationships are
important in business, business remains formal, especially when dealing
with members of the opposite sex.
If you must disagree with a Bengali, be polite, diplomatic, and tactful, and
discuss the matter in private.
You may be asked somewhat intrusive questions about your marital status
and whether or not you have children. Preparing a stock answer in
advance allows you to handle the questions with grace and aplomb.
Accept that you are in a male-dominated culture that is influenced by

Islamic culture and beliefs.
Bengalis will generally treat a woman with respect if she demonstrates

knowledge in her field since expertise is respected and admired. At the
same time, they may have difficulty seeing a businesswoman as the final
authority. In general, therefore, a businesswoman will be more successful
as a subject matter expert.
A businesswoman should extend her hand to the Bengali businessman
during the greeting process. If he does not shake hands with a woman, he
will generally tell her so and will most likely not be offended by her gesture.
If this occurs, the businesswoman should nod her head slightly and lower
her eyes to demonstrate respect.
Bengali women do not smile or make direct eye contact with men other
than their husband or male relatives. Although most businessmen
understand that a Western woman may do both in an attempt to appear
sincere, it is generally a good idea to adjust your style to be more
compatible with the local culture.
Establishing Credibility
It is a good idea to advise Bengalis in advance of a businesswomans
credentials so that her role is clearly defined. Forwarding a brief bio
including her academic background, title, and professional
accomplishments should be sufficient.
If a businesswoman is meeting with a company for the first time, she

should strive to be introduced by the oldest, highest-ranking male who
knows the people with whom she will be meeting. The status of the person
who makes the introduction lays the foundation for the way a
businesswoman is perceived.
Titles are important since they tell others how to behave towards you and
where to place you relative to themselves -- and relative to the hierarchy.
They sometimes determine the level of the person with whom you may
conduct business. If you are a business traveler, you may wish to invent a
"business card title" to ensure that you are able to meet with the
appropriate decision maker.
In general, Bengalis will defer to the men on the team. To avoid this, it is a
good idea to arrange with your team to have certain questions deferred to
you. If possible, lead the business discussion when you are part of a team.
Even if all team members are equal, this visible taking charge enhances
your credibility.
A businesswoman should be authorized to make decisions. Saying you

must ask someone else to authorize a decision may cause you to lose
credibility.
If you are naturally enthusiastic or effusive, strive to moderate your

speaking voice as Bengalis expect women to have a soft voice.
View of Foreigners
Bangladesh is trying to change its image from solely a business destination

to a tourist destination as well. The government has made a concerted
effort to promote the country at trade shows and to build high-end hotels
that would appeal to tourists.
Foreigners are generally well received since they bring much-needed

foreign investment into the country. At the same time, many Bengalis are
concerned that foreigners will challenge their traditional culture and attempt
to Westernize the country.
Foreign women who adopt a conservative wardrobe to reflect prevailing

cultural sensitivities are generally better received.
Cross Culture Tips
The following cultural observations are based on the dimensions in the

ICAM169; Cultural Model. They are designed to help you work and
understand people from other cultural backgrounds.
Please keep in mind that not all people from any given culture act the
same, but in order to describe cultural traits, we had to make
generalizations, which may not apply in some cases. Perhaps the most
important tip we can provide is that when interacting across cultures, you
need to approach every situation with an understanding of the basic tenets
of a given culture and yet remain alert to the specific cultural signals you
receive in each situation and adjust your behavior and expectations
accordingly.
Hierarchical vs. Egalitarian

The defining characteristics of this dimension are:
How society is structured

How power is allocated or earned
Tolerance for social mobility
How organizations are structured and run
The amount of responsibility and control employees are given
Bangladesh is hierarchical, so when interacting with people from

Bangladesh, you should remember the following tips:
Whether you are managing a corporate team or a household staff,

you will need to give clear, explicit directions regarding duties,
deadlines, and decisions.
As a manager or employer, you will be expected to demonstrate an
authoritative leadership style.
Do not expect employees to display individual initiative; they expect
to take direction from the leader.
Be aware that people expect to be treated differently based on their
socio-economic backgrounds or levels in the organization. Dont
expect meetings or social functions to involve people from multiple
levels.
Show the appropriate level of deference and respect, through

language and behavior, to the more senior members of society and
the organization.
Expect to encounter more bureaucracy in organizations and
government agencies.
Formal vs. Informal

The importance and value attached to professional vs. personal lives

How status and success are defined by a society
The presence or absence of government-sponsored initiatives
relating to family welfare benefits
The source of an individual's identity and self-esteem
Tolerance for blurring the lines between professional and personal
lives
Bangladesh is a formal society. When you interact with people from

Bangladesh:
Address people by their appropriate title and name. Do not move to

first-name basis until invited.
In general, it is best to use the formal tense when using the local
language.
Status is important and you may be judged on the image you present,
the clothes you wear and where you live and what car you drive.
These external cues matter to locals.
Do not ask personal questions in a social setting unless you have
developed a close relationship with someone. Check to be certain it
is proper to use social functions to network.
Check with a colleague or local national about rules of protocol and
etiquette about specific circumstances since being correct with
etiquette is important.
Group vs. Individual

The source of an individual's identity and loyalties

The relative importance of the individual versus the group
Whether legal systems will protect the rights of the individual or focus
on the group as a whole
Whether individuals prefer to work alone or be part of a group
Whether work teams operate as a seamless entity or as cooperating
individuals
The value of individual contributions vs. teamwork in accomplishing
and rewarding business goals
The roles and responsibilities of individuals to other family members
The appropriate levels of self-assertion and self-promotion within a
society
Bangladesh is a relatively group-oriented society. As you interact with

people from Bangladesh, it will be helpful to remember the following tips:
People value their role as a family or team member. They will often
identify themselves first as part of a group, then as an individual.
They may be uncomfortable if too much focus is placed on them
individually.
Individuals do not always feel comfortable taking sole credit for
accomplishments, even when credit is primarily due to them. Instead,
be sensitive to the role of the group, as well as the individual.
Promotions will be based on a mixture of group and individual
performance and achievement.
Individuals feel a strong sense of responsibility for family members.
Decision making may require a good deal of consensus building.
Interpersonal vs. Transactional

What constitutes a relationship

What are the expectations
Whether trust is deemed critical to building social or business
relationships
What takes precedence in making a business decision: the people
involved or other more objective business criteria
The pace and degree of formalized rituals in building new
relationships
The appropriateness of mixing business and pleasure, or
professional and personal lives
Bangladesh is an interpersonal, relationship-oriented culture. When you

have business or social interactions with people from Bangladesh, you will
want to remember these points:
Relationship building is important and tends to be somewhat formal

and ritualized.
In general, relationship building takes time and attention. In return,
once developed, relationships are long lived.
Expect to be asked personal questions. This is how locals learn more
about you as a person so that they can be learn if the type of person
with whom they want a relationship.
In a business situation, personal relationships, trust and familiarity will
likely take precedence over price and perhaps even efficiency.
Employing or giving favorable treatment to family members and
friends may be good business, and what may be considered to be
"nepotism" in your culture may be openly accepted.
There are expectations that people have of relationship-based
behavior, which may include going out after work to socialize,
entertaining at ones home or even inviting someone for the weekend
and while these may be seen as casual in your culture, they carry an
underlying assumption of friendship.
Direct vs. Indirect

The relative importance of verbal vs. non-verbal communication

The degree of directness or subtlety in the language
The relative importance of contextual versus tactical information in
conveying a message
The need to maintain harmony and dignity when communicating
The degree to which a society uses conciseness and clarity versus
eloquent language when communicating
Bangladesh is a very indirect communication culture. The following tips will

give you clues about how you might handle communication with people
from Bangladesh:
Non-verbal gestures are important to enhance the meaning and

acceptance of the words being spoken.
Adding some context, background information, and dialog are
important to assure understanding.
Eloquence in verbal communication and meticulous preparation of
written or visual communication forms are highly valued.
Take care when making introductions to have a respectful, even
deferential demeanor.
Show you are considering the subject thoroughly when a topic is
presented.
Balance vs. Status

The importance and value attached to professional vs. personal lives

How status and success are defined by a society
The presence or absence of government-sponsored initiatives
relating to family welfare benefits
The source of an individual's identity and self-esteem
Tolerance for blurring the lines between professional and personal
lives
Bangladesh is a Balance-Motivation culture. When interacting with people

from Bangladesh, you should remember the following tips:
Individuals value their personal and family time.

Personal identity, status and sense of personal accomplishment are
derived from family, education and pursuits outside of the workplace.
Employees see a clear distinction between work time and personal
time and rarely blur those lines.
Family obligations will take precedence over professional loyalties or
advancement.
People are reluctant to permanently relocate and leave family and
friends.
Fluid vs. Controlled Time

The degree to which people feel that they can control time
The relative importance of relationships vs. schedules
Attitudes towards timekeeping and punctuality
Comfort level with short range vs. longer term planning
The feasibility / appropriateness of assigning set times for social
functions or business meetings to start and finish
Bangladesh is a Fluid Time culture. The following tips will give you clues
about how you may best interact with people from Bangladesh around time
issues:
Time schedules and deadlines are not necessarily considered final.

Tending to relationships may be more important.
Given their exposure to global business standards, people generally
know that foreigners value promptness and they may strive to
comply. This may be less pronounced when meeting with
government officials.
There is generally a large window of accepted lateness for social
events in someones house.
It may be rude to interrupt a colleague who is taking a long time to
deliver a message, and brevity to maintain time schedules is not
considered a virtue.
External vs. Internal

The degree to which people feel they control their environment and
destiny-or the degree to which they feel their environment and
destiny control them
Openness to change and innovation
The preference for rules and structure
Willingness to take risks
The degree to which organizational practices encourage and reward
initiative and risk taking, and allow failure
Bangladesh is an External Control society. When interacting with people

from Bangladesh, you should remember the following tips:
People in these societies are typically quite risk averse and the
society is not readily forgiving of failure.
People in this society look for strong, directive leadership.
Management is often paternalistic and care-taking towards
employees.
Don't expect changes to be readily embraced and be prepared for
considerable resistance even after youve been able to demonstrate
the value of a proposed change.
While employees and colleagues in Bangladesh may show a great
deal of competence, dont be surprised if they dont show much
initiative.
When introducing initiatives, be prepared for considerable discussion

and debate and other actions that demonstrate resistance.
Country Overview
The People
Nearly 98% of the population is Bengali. Tribes comprise about 1% of the

population. They live primarily in the Chittagong Hills and in the regions of
Mymensingh, Sylhet, and Rajshahi. Most are of SinoTibetan descent and
have distinctive Mongoloid features. They differ in their social organization,
marriage customs, birth and death rites, food, and other social customs.
The tribes intermingle; yet can be distinguished by differences in their
dialect, dress, and customs. The largest tribe, the Chakmas, are of mixed
origin but reflect more Bengali influence than any other tribe. Unlike the
other tribes, the Chakmas and Marmas generally live in the highland
valleys. Most Chakmas are Buddhists, but some practice Hinduism or
animism.
About 83% of Bangladeshis are Muslim. The next major religion is

Hinduism (16%). Other major religions include Buddhism and Christianity.
Nationality:
Noun: Bangladeshi(s)
Adjective: Bangladeshi
Population:
156,186,882 (July 2016 est.)
Population growth rate:

1.6% (2014 est.)
Ethnic groups:
Bengali at least 98%, ethnic groups 1.1% (2011 est.)
Note: Bangladesh's government recognizes 27 ethnic groups under the

2010 Cultural Institution for Small Anthropological Groups Act; other
sources estimate there are about 75 ethnic groups; critics of the 2011
census claim that it underestimates the size of Bangladesh's ethnic
population (2011 est.)
Religions:
Muslim 89.1%, Hindu 10%, other 0.9% (includes Buddhist, Christian) (2013
est.)
Languages:
Bangla 98.8% (official, also known as Bengali), other 1.2% (2011 est.)
Source: The World Factbook
Cities & Regions
Bangladesh is bordered by India on the north, northwest, and east and

Myanmar to the southeast. Nearly 90% of the country is low land, an
alluvial plain formed by the sediments of the rivers and tributaries that
traverse the country. Low hills are found in the far northeastern part of the
country. These are part or extension of the Khasia-Garo-Jainta and the
Tippera Hills of India. The larger hilly areas are concentrated in the
Chittagong hill districts that are geologically the offshoots of the Arakan
Yoma running through Eastern India to Burma. The Chittagong Hills are
steep sloped parallel ranges, largely covered with tropical forests.
Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate. Monsoons start in June and

continue through October. The alluvial soil of Bangladesh is continuously
enriched by heavy silt-deposits during the rainy season. Forests cover
about 8% of the land. The country is prone to natural disasters, floods,
cyclones, tidal bores, etc. and faces the consequences of such disasters
almost every year.
Dhaka
The historic city and capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka was founded in 1608 as
the seat of the Imperial Mughal Viceroys of Bengal and has been known for
its fine silk and muslin. It is located in the geographic center of the country,
in the great delta region of the Ganges and Brahmapurta Rivers. In its
oldest areas it is dominated both by the commercial waterfront and several
old buildings. These include the uncompleted 17th-century Lalbagh Fort,
the spectacular Ahsan Manzil palace museum and the Chotta Katra.
Government
Country name:
Conventional long form: People's Republic of Bangladesh

Conventional short form: Bangladesh
Local long form: Gana Prajatantri Bangladesh
Local short form: Bangladesh
Former: East Bengal, East Pakistan
Government type:
Parliamentary republic
Capital:
Dhaka
Independence:
16 December 1971 (from West Pakistan)
Legal system:
Mixed legal system of mostly English common law and Islamic law
More Government Information
Chiefs of State and Cabinet Members in Bangladesh

https://www.cia.gov/
An online directory of leaders updated weekly by the Central Intelligence
Agency.
Background Note: Bangladesh

http://www.state.gov/
An overview of government and political conditions published by the U.S.
Department of State.
Links to Government Web Sites

http://www.gksoft.com/
A comprehensive directory of Bangladesh government Web sites.
Economy
Currency:
Taka (BDT)
Economy - overview:
Bangladesh's economy has grown roughly 6% per year since 1996 despite
political instability, poor infrastructure, corruption, insufficient power
supplies, slow implementation of economic reforms, and the 2008-09
global financial crisis and recession. Although more than half of GDP is
generated through the services sector, almost half of Bangladeshis are
employed in the agriculture sector, with rice as the single-most-important
product.
Garment exports, the backbone of Bangladesh's industrial sector,

accounted for more than 80% of total exports and surpassed $25 billion in
2015. The sector continues to grow, despite a series of factory accidents
that have killed more than 1,000 workers, and crippling strikes, including a
nationwide transportation blockade implemented by the political opposition
during the first several months of 2015. Steady garment export growth
combined with remittances from overseas Bangladeshis - which totaled
about $15 billion and 8% of GDP in 2015 - are the largest contributors to
Bangladesh's sustained economic growth and rising foreign exchange
reserves.
Industries:
Jute, cotton, garments, paper, leather, fertilizer, iron and steel, cement,
petroleum products, tobacco, drugs and pharmaceuticals, ceramic, tea,
salt, sugar, edible oil, soap and detergent, fabricated metal products,
electricity and natural gas
Exports - partners:
US 13.9%, Germany 12.9%, UK 8.9%, France 5%, Spain 4.7% (2015)
Geography & Climate
Location:
Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India
Area:
Total: 148,460 sq km
Land: 130,170 sq km
Water: 18,290 sq km
Land boundaries:
Total: 4,413 km
Border countries: Burma 271 km, India 4,142 km
Coastline:
580 km
Climate:
Tropical; mild winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to
June); humid, warm rainy monsoon (June to October)
Terrain:
Mostly flat alluvial plain; hilly in southeast
Elevation extremes:
Lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Highest point: Keokradong 1,230 m
Natural hazards:
Droughts, cyclones; much of the country routinely inundated during the
summer monsoon season
Environment - current issues:

Many people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone
land; waterborne diseases prevalent in surface water; water pollution,
especially of fishing areas, results from the use of commercial pesticides;
ground water contaminated by naturally occurring arsenic; intermittent
water shortages because of falling water tables in the northern and central
parts of the country; soil degradation and erosion; deforestation; severe
overpopulation
Geography - note:
Most of the country is situated on deltas of large rivers flowing from the
Himalayas: the Ganges unites with the Jamuna (main channel of the
Brahmaputra) and later joins the Meghna to eventually empty into the Bay
of Bengal
History Overview
Muslim rule of the region began in about 1200 and lasted for five and
a half centuries. The area then came under British rule in 1757, after
the Battle of Plassey.
British colonial rule of India ended in 1947 at which time the country
was partitioned into India and Pakistan. Pakistan was further sub-
divided into East and West Pakistan. Bangladesh became East
Pakistan and was separated from West Pakistan by India.
The Awami League (AL) was established in 1949 to campaign for
autonomy from West Pakistan. West Pakistani elite exploited East
Pakistanis despite the fact that East Pakistan had the larger
population.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman of the Awami League was elected to head
East Pakistan in 1970. The government of West Pakistan refused to
recognize the election results. Their soldiers attacked civilians in
Dhaka, massacring nearly half a million people.
Sheikh Mujibur was arrested and taken to West Pakistan. Exiled
Awami League leaders proclaimed East Pakistan's independence on
March 26, 1971. They named the country Bangladesh. About 10
million Bangladeshis fled to India. With the help of Indian troops,
Bangladesh overthrows West Pakistan troops. Sheikh Mujibur
returned to Bangladesh and became Prime Minister the following
year. A national state of emergency was declared in 1974 when
severe flooding devastated much of the grain crop and killed 30,000
people. Sheikh Mujibur became President in 1975 and was
assassinated in a military coup in August of the same year. Martial
law was imposed on the country.
General Zia ur Rahman took the role of Chief Martial Law
Administrator in 1976. He assumed the role of President the following
year, at which time he amended the constitution. In 1978 General Zia
won the first independent presidential election. Martial law was

repealed and the state of emergency revoked.
General Zai was assassinated in 1982. General Ershad seized power
in a bloodless coup and placed the country under martial law. The
country remained unstable for several years. General Ershad
imposed Islam on the educational system and forced teachers to
teach in Arabic. This led to social unrest, particularly among the non-
Muslim minority.
Martial law ended in 1986 and a constitutional government was
revived. General Ershad was elected President. A state of
emergency was declared the next year following strikes and
opposition demonstrations.
Islam officially became the state religion in 1988. Floods covered
nearly 85% of the country, making much of the population homeless.
General Ershad stepped down in 1990 following mass protests that
made the country ungovernable.
Khaleda Zia, wife of General Zia, of the BNP Party became Prime
Minister in the 1991 elections. General Ershad was jailed for
corruption and illegal possession of weapons. The President became
a ceremonial position and the Prime Minister was given full executive
powers.
Sheikh Hasina Wajed, daughter of Sheikh Mujibur, became Prime
Minister in 1996. The opposition party, the BNP, began striking
against the government. Two-thirds of the country was devastated by
floods in 1998.
Sheikh Hasina was the first Prime Minister to complete a 5-year term.
In October 2001, he lost to Khaleda Zia's Nationalist Party.
A 2001 law allowing the death penalty for acid attacks was enacted to
counteract the rise in violence against women. Safety standards were
increased in May when 500 people died on a river ferry.
The opposition called 21 general strikes in 2004 while trying to oust
the government. In May, the constitution was amended to reserve 45
MP positions for women.
2004 brought the worst floods in nearly a decade, leaving the country
desperate for food.
2005 January The Awami Leagues Shah AMS Kibria died in a
grenade attack at a political rally in January 2005. In retaliation, his
party called for a general strike.
A banned Islamic group set off about 350 bombs across the country
on August 17, 2005. Bombings continued in November.
In October 2006, violent protests erupted over the government-
recommended caretaker administration that would maintain control
when Premier Zia ended her term. President Ahmed ended up with
the caretaker role until the January 2007 elections.
By November 2006, much of the country was paralyzed by a
blockade and a state of emergency was declared.
In April 2007, Sheikh Hasina was charged with murder and Begum
Khaleda Zia was put under house arrest. Violence led to curfews in
many cities in August.
Leaders in the main Islamist party were charged with war crimes by a
Spring 2012 government tribunal investigating collaboration with
Pakistan during the 1971 war for independence. Muslim rioters
attacked Buddhist villages and shrines after a supposed burnt Koran

was posted on Facebook in October.
In January 2013, the war crimes tribunal tried in absentia and
sentenced Muslim cleric Abul Kalam Azad to death for crimes against
humanity. The next month, the tribunal declared the Assistant
Secretary General of the main Islamist party guilty of the same
charge. Abdul Kader Mullah of Jamaat-e-Islami was sentenced to life
in prison. Eleven other political leaders stood trial.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vetoed an Islamist bill to outlaw
criticism of Islam in April 2013.
European retailers agreed to improve safety conditions in factories in
May 2013 after over 1,000 workers died in a fire. Employee protests
closed hundreds of factories until the government agreed to increase
the minimum wage and make it easier to form unions.
Clashes with the police continue due to the July 2013 arrest and
detention of Islamist party members from the 1971 war for
independence.
Country Information
Embassies
Public Holidays
Social Etiquette
Meeting People
Bangladeshis are warm and hospitable people, although they do not

always smile in public. Since Islam is the predominant religion, it is
important to follow their cultural norms and understand that few
Bangladeshi women communicate with men outside their extended family.
Greetings are, therefore, generally between members of the same sex.
The tradition greeting between men is a rather limp handshake. Raising the
right hand to the forehead, palm curved and relaxed in a salute-type
gesture indicates respect from Muslims. The traditional Islamic greeting is
"Assalamo alaikum" ("Peace be with you"), to which the expected response
is respond "wa alaikum salaam" ("and peace be with you"). The Hindu
greeting is "Adab" or "Namaskasr" ("hello") and they say "Khoda
hafiz" ("May god be with you") when departing. Both Muslims and Hindus
may use the word "Ashi" ("so long") to say goodbye.
Bangladeshis often append a suffix to a person's name that denotes

respect and the level of closeness of the two people. In general, the age of
the speakers dictates how people are addressed. If people are of the same
age, they use first names. If the person being addressed is older than the
speaker, the person is called by their first name and a suffix that denotes
the family relationship. The most common such suffixes are older brother,
son of father's brother, older sister ("apa"), wife of older brother ("bhabi").
In some cases, the suffix, without the first name is used.
Expect to be introduced to each person individually by your host in a social

setting. Say goodbye to each person before departing. Since this is a
hierarchical culture, it is important to say goodbye to the eldest person first.
Gift Giving
Family or close friends may exchange gifts for Ramadan, Eid, Haj, and
other celebratory occasions. In urban areas, it is becoming common to give
gifts to children on their birthday; however, this practice is not extended
to adults. It is the thought, rather than the value of the gift that is important.
Bangladesh is a poor country and it would be rude to give an expensive gift
knowing the recipient could not reciprocate in a similar fashion.
Here are some general gift giving guidelines (but also check to be sure
they are permitted under company policy):
If invited to a Bangladeshis home, bring a small gift such as cookies,

candy, or good quality chocolates.
Do not give frangipanis as they are used at funerals.
Do not give white flowers as they indicate mourning.
If a man must give a gift to a woman, he should say that it is from his
wife, mother, sister, or some other female relative.
Do not give alcohol to Muslims.
At Ramadan, gifts of food and fruit are exchanged.
At Eid, sweets are the most popular gift.
During Haj (the pilgrimage to Mecca), gifts are generally given to
children.
Giving money is viewed as an insult.
Gifts are generally not opened when received.
Gifts are given with two hands.
Entertaining
How Bangladeshis Entertain

Since this is a poor country and often several generations of family live
together, Bangladeshis seldom entertain foreigners in their homes. This is
changing in urban areas and among the more well-to-do. In
general, Bangladeshis are cognizant of social class distinctions and afo
not extend invitations to those they feel they cannot entertain properly.
Entertainment outside the home is usually same-sex only. When having

dinner at someone's house, women may sit at the table with males, but not
in all cases.
It is better to say you will try to attend rather than turn down an invitation.
Refusing an invitation may be viewed as not valuing the invitee's
friendship.
If you are invited to a Bangladeshis house:
Check to see if the host is wearing shoes. If not, remove yours at the
door.
Dress conservatively.
Arrive approximately 15 minutes later than the stipulated time when
invited to dinner or a small gathering.
You may arrive up to one hour later than the stipulated time when
invited to a party.
Show respect for the elders by greeting them first.
It is not necessary to send a thank you note. Bangladeshis
reciprocate hospitality rather than say "thank you", which is viewed as
superficial behavior. Extending a similar invitation marks you as a
person of good breeding.
Table Manners
Bangladeshis table manners are relatively formal. Many people do not use
eating utensils, although in urban areas, many families do. When in doubt,
watch what others are doing and emulate their behavior.
You will be asked to wash your hands before and after eating, even if
utensils are used.
The most common eating utensils are a fork and tablespoon. Keep
the spoon in the right hand and use the fork to push food onto the
spoon.
Meals are generally served either family-style or buffet-style.
Guests are served first. Then the oldest, continuing in some rough
approximation of age order until the youngest is served.
Do not start eating until the oldest person does.
Sample everything that is served.
You will be urged to take second and even third helpings. Saying "I'm
full" will be taken as a polite gesture and not accepted at face value.
Eat only with the right hand.
Bangladeshis do not generally converse during meals.
Bones should be put on a special bone plate, not on your plate.
Leave some food on your plate when you have finished eating. Do
not leave a great deal, since this is a poor country and food is
precious. Leave just enough to show that your hosts have provided
sufficient hospitality.
When you are finished eating, place the fork and spoon in the middle
of the plate.
Reciprocate any hospitality received.
Dining Out
Tipping 10% is customary.
The person extending the invitation generally pays. Guests are expected to
make a ritual pretense of offering to pay nonetheless. If you want to
reciprocate, invite the host to a meal and make payment arrangements in
advance.
Tipping
The following tipping hints are guidelines. You can find more explicit
information on restaurant tipping in the Dining Out section above.
Restaurants: 10%
Porters: 50 cents per bag
Taxis: 10%
Approach to Time
Most Bangladeshis see time as something that is fluid and adjusts to

changing circumstances. In general, Bangladeshis have a relaxed attitude
towards scheduling. Personal relationships are so important that they often
overshadow the clock. If a friend or family member telephones as a
meeting is to start, the businessperson will take the call and not rush it,
since that would be rude.
Conversation Topics
Bengladeshis are known to be wonderful conversationalists. While it is

acceptable to inquire about someone's children, specific questions should
be asked about sons rather than daughters. Do not inquire about
someone's wife or discuss your own. Safe topics include travel, hobbies,
and cultural events.
Bengladeshis do not require as much personal space as people in most

Western cultures. They will stand close to you while conversing and you
may feel as if your personal space has been violated. Do not back away,
as the person may attempt to close the gap between the two of you and
you may find yourself backed up against a wall.
Making eye contact while conversing with peers demonstrates sincerity.

Bengladeshis will look down when speaking to someone who is older or of
a higher social standing to denote their respect towards the person.
Other Situations
Bengladeshis visit friends and family in the late afternoon. Visiting at this
time can be done without an invitation. As a foreigner, it is still advisable to
call in advance, although it is not required if the relationship is close. If a
visit occurs near a meal time, guests are generally invited to stay.
Use the right hand to give or pass items since many Bangldeshis believe
the left hand is unclean.
Faux Pas
Keep in mind the following behavior while in Bangladesh:
Do not point your finger at anyone.

Avoid public displays of affection with members of the opposite sex.
Do not step on a prayer mat when someone is praying.
Do not point the soles of your feet or shoes at anyone.
Do not photograph anyone without permission.
Do not use the "thumbs up" signal, as this indicates rejection.
Do not use the "okay" signal, as this is considered obscene.
Whistling or winking are considered rude behaviors.
Do not touch books or reading material with your feet.
Do not place a holy book on the floor or treat it in a manner that could
be considered disrespectful.
Do not speak disrespectfully or even lightheartedly about the prophet
Mohammed.
Communication
Communication Essentials
Bengalis are known for being talkative and wonderful conversationalists.

Since group harmony and maintaining face are crucial, they will talk around
issues trusting that the listener will somehow gather the intended message
from the context and their non-verbal language. They are indirect
communicators who prefer long sentences rife with contextual
communication.
Smiling in business is not common as it is considered more professional to

demonstrate seriousness. A calm and serious face is considered a sign of
maturity. This lack of friendly demeanor should not be misinterpreted as a
lack of interest in what is being said. Rather, it is a desire to treat the
conversation with the seriousness it deserves.
Communication is non-confrontational, as is common in this region.

Bengalis use evasive phrases instead of directly stating that they will not
do something. They are also masters of passive silence. If you are not
certain how a response you received was meant, you may want to ask the
same question in several other ways.
Bengalis are soft-spoken and dislike loud or harsh tones. They pride
themselves on their ability to maintain their self-control. Public expressions
of anger are avoided since there is a fear of it being the harbinger of
violence. If you are from a direct culture where saying what you think
regardless of the consequences is the norm, you may wish to modify your
speech pattern so that it is not viewed as threatening. This is a culture
where saying things delicately gets better results than the direct approach.
Key Words/Phrases
Yes: Haa
No: Na
Hello: Ei je
Good morning: Salaam alaikum or Nomoshkar shu pravat
Good afternoon: Salaam alaikum or Nomoshkar shuvo oporanho
Good evening: Salaam alaikum or Nomoshkar shuvo shandhya
Good night: Suvo ratri
Good bye: Khoda hafez (literal translation God bless you)
Welcome: Sh agatom
How are you?: Kemon achen?
Response: Valo asi
Please: Onugraha kore
Thank you: Dhanyabad
Thank you very much: Ozasro dhanyabad
Spoken Key Phrases

http://www.omniglot.com
The Bengali alphabet, pronunciation guide, and links to more information.
Language Related Videos

http://www.wonderhowto.com
A video featuring basic spoken phrases in Bengali.
Using Translators
Take care in selecting a translator and develop an early understanding of
what you expect--specifically, the translation must be exact, rather than
what the translator thinks each party wants to hear.
To be on the safe side you may want to meet with the translator prior to
your appointments so that the person learns your accent and can be
exposed to any technical or non-familiar terms that may be used.
Developing a thorough relationship with your translator enables them to
argue your points with a level of confidence they might not otherwise have.
Have your translator explain to you the most elementary of basic
courtesies.
Non-Verbal Language
Bengalis stand extremely close when speaking to someone of the same

gender. However, they often increase the space considerably when
speaking to someone of the opposite sex. Do not attempt to move to a
distance that is more comfortable as it may make the Bengali
uncomfortable.
When interacting with someone of the opposite sex, try to find the right
balance between standing too close and not close enough, and between
maintaining eye contact so you appear trustworthy and not too much so
you don't seem provocative.
Listen attentively to someone who is speaking to denote respect. If the

speaker is senior to you in age or position, it is best to use intermittent
rather than direct eye contact.
Mail & Telephone
Letters/Email
Business is formal and, therefore, written communication should balance
politeness with affability. Even when writing to someone you have never
met, or when continuing with a written dialogue following an initial face-to-
face meeting, it is important to build and maintain a respectful yet
harmonious tone.
When introducing a company or otherwise soliciting services, include a fair

amount of background information.
It is essential to be polite and to handle difficult situations tactfully.Express

any differing points of view or disagreements by fully explaining your
position; avoid appearing blunt, arrogant or domineering.
Given the emphasis on relationship-building, it is a good idea to begin a

letter by asking about your counterparts health, family, or mutual interests.
When closing, again make a personal statement.
Use a proper salutation including titles and do not use abbreviations and
slang. The way you present yourself in writing says a great deal about who
you are as a person and this can positively or negatively affect your
working relationship.
Telephone
Your first approach to a prospective client should be extremely courteous
and emphasize your personal and company history. It is important to
identify who the key decision makers are. An intermediary can help you
navigate whos who in a particular organization.
The first five minutes of most telephone conversations should be

considered the equivalent of small talk. During the first conversation, this
may be prolonged, while in subsequent conversations, it may be
shortened. To end a conversation you can simply thank the person for their
time or help.
Presentations
Handouts
Provide handouts a few days in advance so the audience can discuss

the material with technical experts or other stakeholders who may not
attend the presentation.
Handouts should provide additional details, background data, or
charts and data to flush out the details of what is presented.
Presentation Slides/Power Point
Presentation materials should be spell-checked for British spelling.

Typos, grammatical errors, or spelling mistakes indicate lack of
attention to detail.
Avoid putting too much text on slides.
Slides should be an outline; not the presentation.
To emphasize a point, intersperse charts and graphs with written
material.
Use diagrams and pictures when possible rather than words.
High-tech visuals are the accepted norm.
Audience
Some may arrive late. Use the time to develop a rapport with the
audience.
Will not interrupt a speaker, even if they require clarification.
You may ask the audience to turn off their mobile phones.
Side conversations may still occur.
Presenter
Provide coffee and sweets; allow time for the audience to mingle.
Introduce yourself to each member of the audience as they arrive and

engage in some small talk.
Invest time in developing a rapport with the audience.
Be knowledgeable about your subject. You are expected to be an
expert.
Make eye contact with your audience; do not focus entirely on one
member.
Recap at regular intervals to ensure understanding.
Strive for a cordial yet formal delivery style.
A professional and eloquent speaking style is preferred.
Minimize slang, jargon or sporting analogies.
Avoid pacing or too much movementit will be interpreted as
nervousness.
Moderate expressive hand gestures if possible.
Avoid hard sell, hype, or hyperbole, which are ineffective and
possibly offensive.
Do not read from your slides or notes; it makes you appear unsure of
your material and detracts from being seen as a subject matter
expert.
Opening the Presentation
Do not begin until the most senior person arrives, even if they are
late.
Introduce yourself and provide a brief business bio.
Explain a bit about what you plan to discuss and how the situation
came into existence.
State how long the presentation will take and the key points that will
be covered.
Begin with the business advantage of what you are about to discuss
and a big picture overview.
Body of the Presentation
Presentations should be well-organized and follow the outline in the

opening.
Move from the big picture to case studies or anecdotes that proves
past results.
When presenting a new product/service, focus on its value to the
audience more than how the item works.
Both substance and style are important.
Use creative examples, metaphors or analogies to facilitate
understanding.
Include the conceptual framework while addressing the local context.
Technical aspects of the proposal should only be discussed if the
designated technical expert is present.
Provide supporting documentation, including facts and figures, to
back-up any claims made.
When presenting potential drawback, do so indirectly.
Interactive exercises can work well if the audience is at the same
level in the hierarchy.
Closing the Presentation
Avoid giving an overview or summary at the end of the presentation.

Recap the purpose of the presentation.
Thank the audience.
Schedule time for a Q&A session at the end of your presentation.
Be prepared for in-depth questions as to the background of the
material you are presenting. Questions may not always appear
directly related to the topic at hand, but will be important for an
understanding of the material and its context.
Date/Time
Date
In Bangladesh, dates are generally written in the day, month and year
format with either periods or slashes between each number. If the day or
month is less than 10, leading zeroes are used. The year may be written
using two or four digits. Example: July 9, 2011 could be written 09.07.2011
or 09/07/11.
To ensure there is no confusion, you may want to spell out the name of the
month. This leaves no ambiguity as to what is the day and what is the
month.
Time
The 24-hour clock is a timekeeping convention where the time of a day is
the number of hours since midnight. The 12-hour clock divides the day into
two periods (midnight to noon and noon to midnight), each with 12 hours.
Thus, 2 o'clock in the afternoon would be 14:00 in the 24-hour clock.
Bangladeshis generally communicate in writing using the 24-hour clock,

although they may use the 12-hour clock when speaking.
Business Protocol
Meeting & Greeting
Men greet each other with a handshake upon arriving and leaving.
Handshakes may be somewhat limp.
Foreign men should nod to a Bangladeshis woman unless she

extends her hand.
The common greeting to a Muslim is "salaam alaikum" ("peace be
with you"), to which the expected response is "as alaikum
salaam" ("and peace be with you").
Businessmen should be addressed by the term "Bahadur" ("Sir"),
while women may be addressed as "Begum" ("Madam"). This may be
used with or without the surname.
Wait until invited before moving to a first-name basis.
Business Cards
Business cards are exchanged after the initial introduction.

Include any advanced university degrees on your card, as they
denote status.
Present your business card so that the text is facing the recipient.
Business cards are exchanged using the right hand only or with two
hands.
Make a point of studying any business card you receive before
putting into your business card holder.
The way you handle a colleague's business card is an indication of
the way you will treat the relationship.
Your business card is considered an extension of you. Therefore,
make sure your cards are in pristine condition.
Business Attire
The way a businessperson dresses conveys their professional image and

their respect for the people with whom they conduct business. As such,
what we report is the conservative approach to business attire for a
country. Appropriate attire varies within countries based on location, event,
and individual organization culture. Some industries and companies may
have less stringent requirements. Before embarking on an international
trip, it is generally a good idea to check with the local office to determine
what the appropriate dress code is in a specific location.
Business attire is formal and conservative.

Men should wear a tropical weight business suit with a shirt and tie.
In the summer months, a man may be able to dispense with the
jacket, but it is best to dress conservatively for the first meeting.
Men should wear a suit when meeting with government officials.
Women should wear extremely modest, conservative suits or
dresses. Skirts should cover the knee. Blouses should have high
necklines and cover the arms completely. Clothing should not be
form fitting. Wearing loose trousers and an over-blouse or a floor-

length, flowing skirt demonstrates respect for the local culture.
Natural fibers provide the best defense against the intense heat.
Gifts
Here are some general gift giving guidelines (but also check to be sure
they comply with company policy):
Business gifts are very much appreciated.

Avoid giving expensive gifts as they may be viewed as an attempt to
curry favor.
Good gifts include desk items, Swiss army knives, or electronic
gadgets.
Business Entertaining
Bangladeshis maintain strong business contacts through socializing.

Therefore, it is common to have business lunches or dinners where
business is not discussed.
Business entertainment is generally male only.
Entertaining takes place in restaurants or hotels.
If you host a business function, do so at a first class international
hotel.
It is common to have a celebratory meal at the end of successful
negotiations.
Business Hours
Offices and government: 9:00am5:00pm, Sunday to Thursday.

During Ramadan, they close earlier.
Industrial facilities: 9:00am5:00pm, Saturday to Thursday. Some
garments factories are in production 24 hours a day and 7 days a
week.
Banks: 9:00am or 9:30am1:00pm Sunday to Thursday
Shops: 10:00am9:00pm Saturday to Thursday
Business Meetings
Meeting Essentials
Structure: Agendas and back-up materials should be provided in

advance. Agendas are loosely followed.
Role of Leader: Calls the meeting, sets the agenda, facilitates the
meeting, sets the pace
Purpose: Exchange information or communicate decisions that have
already been reached.
Who attends: Key stakeholders or others who are deemed to have a
business interest in the subject.
Who participates/speaks: Employees will not correct their superiors,
so they generally only corroborate information.
Meetings generally begin with getting-to-know-you conversation and

relationship building. In fact, if this is the first time your company has done
business with a particular company, the initial meeting may only be used
for relationship development. It is a good idea to allow the most senior
Bengali to decide when the appropriate time to begin the business
discussion is. This will only occur when he is satisfied that you are the type
of person with whom he would be comfortable conducing business.
Communication in meetings is formal and hierarchical. Lower level

Bengalis may lower their eyes when speaking to someone who is their
superior to demonstrate their respect and deference towards the person.
Although foreigners are not expected to do the same, they should be
cautious not to say anything that causes another to lose face.
The highest ranking Bengali at the meeting is the host, although this may
not be the actual decision maker. He is responsible for setting the agenda,
calling the meeting to order, and setting the tone for the discussion.
Meetings seldom have ending times since they are over when their
purpose has been met and everyone has had their say.
Agendas are frequently used, although Bengalis are not slaves to them.
They see agendas as a broad outline of items to be discussed. If this
sparks a tangential discussion, so be it. If you want to recommend items for
inclusion on the agenda, do so in writing several weeks prior to the
meeting. It is a good idea to include back-up material then as well.
The purpose of meetings is to communicate information and decisions that

have already been made. Employees may be called on to corroborate or
clarify facts and statistics but there will be little collaboration.
Similarly to other South Asians, Bengalis have an indirect communication

style. They are generally as concerned with the content of their message
with how it is received. They tend to be careful when communicating
something that could hurt or offend.
Scheduling Meetings
Appointments are necessary and should be made in writing, 3 to 4 weeks

in advance, although meetings with private companies can often be
arranged with less notice. If you are scheduling the meeting from within the
country, try to make arrangements at least one week in advance. Try not to
schedule meetings during Ramadan, if possible.
Arrive at meetings on time and be prepared to be kept waiting.

Bangladeshis in the private sector who are accustomed to working with
international companies may strive for punctuality, but are not always
successful. Meetings may be cancelled at the last minute or even once you
have arrived. Try not to appear irritated if this occurs.
Agendas
Agendas are often used when meeting with foreigners.

If you want to include something on the agenda, provide the item and
back-up material when scheduling the meeting.
Agnedas are considered broad outlines of what is to be discussed.
They are not followed slavishly and frequent tangential discussions
are common.
It is more important that everyone has their say than the agenda is
followed in a point-by-point fashion.
Conducting Meetings
Communication is formal and follows a hierarchical structure. Demonstrate

deference to the most senior person in the group. Due to the long history of
Western colonial domination, this is especially important when dealing with
government officials. Bureaucrats can be easily offended by what they
perceive as overly casual behavior. Informality may be misinterpreted as a
lack of respect. If you are from a more egalitarian culture, it is important to
monitor your behavior so that you do not inadvertently offend someone.
Both people lose dignity and respect if one person loses their temper. The
person who displays anger loses dignity and respect because he has acted
childishly. The recipient loses face because they were the receiver of the
behavior.
Bangladeshis are circumspect in their use of language and strive to avoid
conflict. They use phrases such as "we will try", "that may be difficult", or
"we will have to give that further study" rather than admit that they will not
do something. Therefore, it is important to ask questions in several ways to
be certain what was meant by a vague response. Silence is often used as
a communication tool.
A calm and serious face is believed to demonstrate maturity. Therefore,

many Bangladeshis do not smile in business. This does not indicate that
they are unfriendly.
Bangladeshis maintain eye contact while conversing with someone they

consider to be at their level as this denotes sincerity. However, when
talking to someone in a higher position, they look down to show their
respect.
Bangladeshis prefer to do business in person. They see the telephone and

written communication as too impersonal for business communication.
Even after a personal relationship has developed, they have a continuing
need for face-to-face contact. They expect to see suppliers and partners in
person more than would be necessary in a less relationship-driven culture.
Do not take off your suit jacket without permission. Keeping your suit jacket
on in a non-air conditioned office signals great respect for the person with
whom you are meeting.
Management Styles
Relationships
Introductions are very important in Bangladesh. A personal introduction

bridges the relationship gap between you and the person with whom you
wish to meet. If you do not know someone to perform this vital task, contact
the Bangladesh Embassy in your country, your country's embassy in
Bangladesh, or the local chamber of commerce for assistance in locating a
reputable person.
Bangladeshis prefer to work with people they trust and spend a great deal
of time on the getting-to-know-you part of relationship building. Do not
appear frustrated by what may appear to be purely social conversation.
This is a vital part of your business success.
Relationships take time to grow and must be nurtured. This may require
several visits. If you appear overly friendly when you are first introduced,
your intentions may be questioned.
Once a relationship develops, the alliance is to the person rather than the
company they represent. If you change representatives, the relationship-
building process will start again.
Bangladeshis do not require as much personal space as people from many

Western cultures. When conversing with someone of the same sex, they
tend to stand close and you may feel as if your personal space has been
violated. Do not back away, as your colleague will attempt to close the gap
between the two of you and you may find yourself backed up against a
wall.
Since the government is intimately involved in much business, it is

imperative that you develop cordial relationships in that sector.
Government officials are particularly sensitive to foreigners who act
superior or as if they are in the country to show the Bangladeshis the
proper way to do something.
Impact of Generations on Relationships

Generation Y are more entrepreneurial than previous generations and, as
such, are more willing to conduct business with people with whom they do
not have a personal relationship. At the same time, their technological
fluency allows them to develop or maintain relationships using social media
and video conferencing rather than face-to-face contact.
Management Essentials
If you were to think about the most important cultural attributes that you will
see operating in business in Bangladesh, they would be:
Hierarchical structures
Formal style
Interpersonal relationships
Indirect communication
In Bangladesh, it is important to maintain a formal and professional

demeanor. Business is considered serious and appear overly enthusiastic
may be misinterpreted. Older people and those in senior positions,
especially government officials, should be deferred to and treated with
dignity and respect.
Bangladeshis prefer to deal with those they know; therefore, they devote a
great deal of time becoming familiar with you as an individual. Consider the
time spent in social chitchat as an investment in business success.
It is important to remain calm and patient in business. Things generally

take longer than expected. It may take several meetings to accomplish
what could be handled by a telephone call in your home country.
Risk Tolerance
Bangladesh is a low risk and low change tolerant culture. There is a

concern that change will negatively impact the culture, so there is a natural
hesitancy to adopt new ideas.
Since the country is still struggling with finding its way in the global arena, it
is important to be especially diplomatic when recommending new ideas.
Background data and what the change could mean are important.
Testimonials and case studies are less important than in many other
countries, since Bangladeshis are less concerned with success elsewhere.
However, if you have case studies of the same thing working elsewhere in
the country, use this.
Changes, when adopted, are done so slowly and carefully. Do not rush the
process.
Impact of Generations on Risk Tolerance

Generation Y is more risk tolerant than previous generations. They see
entrepreneurial behavior and taking risks as a necessary step to improving
the local economy. How this ultimately impacts the view of risk across the
culture remains to be seen.
Schedules & Deadlines
Bangladesh is a fluid time culture where maintaining harmonious

relationships is more important than timetables. Businesspeople can be lax
about meeting deadlines, although this has been changing in the last
several years. If it is imperative that a certain timetable is met, it is
advisable to give an artificial deadline in advance of the actual date and
follow-up repeatedly as the date approaches to ensure compliance.
At the same time, due to their strong collective culture, Bangladeshis may
respond positively to deadlines if the importance of the deadline is
reinforced gently and explained in terms of how failing to meet it could
impact others within the organization.
Impact of Generations on Schedules & Deadlines

Generation Y employees are more focused on meeting agreed upon
timetables. Their access to the Internet and social media have reinforced in
them the need to meet schedules in order for the country to be seen as a
global player.
Decision Making
Company Structure
Companies and government entities tend to be extremely hierarchical.
Managers and executives wield most authority and are respected. Most
organizations have set policies and procedures so that everyone within the
organization understands what they are to do and how it should be done.
Managing Employees
Bangladeshi managers tend to have a rather autocratic style, although this
may have to change as Generation Y takes on a more prominent role in
the workforce. At the same time, the manager is seen as a paternalistic
figure and is expected to assist subordinates with personal problems.
The manager delegates tasks to specific employees and clearly explains

what to do and the limits of the subordinate's authority to deviate from the
instructions. The manager expects subordinates to come to him with any
questions.
Subordinates do not challenge what the manager tells them to do, since
this would show a lack of respect towards the manager.
The manager may take an interest in non-business related matters

impacting his staff. This is expected even if the manager is an expat.
Impact of Generations on Managing Employees

The age of employees can materially impact the best way to manage them.
Gen Y expects managers to earn their respect. When managing
employees born between 1980 and 2000, consider the following:
Offer attractive career growth prospects, including both lateral and

horizontal development.
Provide ongoing training, mentoring and coaching.Create situations
where you can give them some influence.
Offer promotional opportunities to retain them.
Provide flexibility and allow them to determine the best approach,
location and time to achieve the goal.
Provide on-going communication and explanations so that Millennials
feel they are in the loop and understand the rationales for decisions.
Offer frequent feedback; this helps them improve their performance
and fulfill their achievement need.
Decision Making
Decisions are made at the top of the company, as is frequently the case in
extremely hierarchical cultures. In many organizations, the Managing
Director does not delegate decision making authority, even on mundane
matters, to direct reports.
This means that decision making can be extremely protracted if this person
is away from the office or involved in something else.
Impact of Generations on Decision Making

The old hierarchical method of decision making is coming under strain as
more Generation Y enter the workplace and achieve supervisory or
managerial roles. How this ultimately impacts the workplace remains to be
seen.
Team Focus
Roles are clearly defined in Bangladesh. The team leader must act like a
mother or father to the team members who, in turn, act like younger
brothers or sisters. It is the role of the team leader to provide advice and
guidance to the team so that deadlines are met.
Personal honor and reputation are important to Bangladeshis. Therefore,

the leader must create an environment where team members feel they may
speak openly. It is important that the leader listen to what all members say
and watch their non-verbal behavior for signs that they are concerned,
since Bangladeshis may not publicly disagree.
Praise should be given to the entire group, not to individuals to maintain

harmony within the group.
Negotiations
Do not remove your suit jacket without permission. Even then, unless the
most senior ranking Bangladeshi person does, it is a good idea to keep
your jacket on despite the heat and humidity. This demonstrates respect
and deference.
Negotiations often take a long time due to the lengthy process of building
trust and developing a personal relationship. Do not appear impatient.
Being able to control your emotions is a virtue. If you try to rush things, you
will give offense and jeopardize your business relationship.
Bangladeshis are non-confrontational. They will seldom say "no" overtly, so

you must watch their non-verbal cues.
If you change negotiators, negotiations will have to start over since

relationships are to the person and not the company that they represent.
Bangladeshis are highly skilled negotiators. It is a good idea to include a

wide margin in your initial price so that you can come down. In general,
Bangladeshis expect concessions in both price and terms. It is acceptable
to demand similar concessions for each one you grant.
Do not use high-pressure tactics. They are counterproductive.
Moving There
Advice and Tips for Moving
Customs Regulations
Entry Requirements
Getting Around
Getting There
Safety & Security
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Telephone Numbers

To reach emergency services from a local telephone, dial:
Fire: 101
Police: 100
Ambulance: 102
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Telephone Numbers

To reach emergency services from a local telephone, dial:
Fire: 101
Police: 100
Ambulance: 102
Safety Precautions
Today, we think of political situations as causing safety concerns, but

ordinary crime, weather and geographic problems also pose risks. The
wise traveler is cautious about hurricanes and earthquakes along with hotel
fires, pickpockets and spontaneous political demonstrations. Terrorist
attacks and kidnappings have simply brought all security concerns to our
awareness. With the exception of the emergency telephone numbers, this
information is compiled for travelers in general and will apply in varying
degrees to your destination and personal situation.
Before You Go
Take time to get all of your financial and personal records in order,
including preparing a will.
Talk with a trusted family member or friend about what types of
emergencies might arise in your absence, and what to do in those
events.
Think about the small (and large) disasters that could occur at home
during your absence and be sure there is someone prepared to assist
you.
Make copies of all of your travel documents (including detailed
itinerary with contact numbers) and be sure two people have easy
access to them.
Do the same with crucial health documentation.
Be sure someone knows where you will be and how to contact you in
emergencies at all times.
Find out the services your company offers to you in case of
emergency; obtain and make several copies of important emergency
company contact numbers to keep and give to all members of your
family who might need them.
Be sure you have enough of your prescription medication so you are
all right if you cannot get a refill right away; take an extra pair of
glasses if you wear them.
In-Country
So many variables go into being safe, and many of them revolve around
understanding the specifics of where you are. Be sure to learn details of
your location -- how to dress, where you can go and where to avoid, how to
act in public, how to carry yourself, and who to be watchful of.
Seek information from cultural experts and local nationals whom you have
confidence in. When in comes to your safety, dont be afraid to ask.
Hotel Safety
Know how to call for help AND what to say.

Do not display your guest room key unnecessarily.
Lock your door and do not answer it until you feel comfortable that
you know who it is.
Dont let strangers into your room.
Use the room safe or hotel safe deposit box.
Hide personal documents, valuables and other important items.
(Remember to safeguard your passport.)
Read the fire safety information and know what you would do if you
need to evacuate. Know exactly where the nearest fire exits are.
In the event that you might need to leave your room quickly, keep
your room key, your glasses (if necessary), a pair of shoes and some
money by your bedside.
Travel with a flashlight.
Women traveling alone will have different issues depending upon the
mors of the society youre visiting.
As a rule, be extremely cautious and circumspect.
Find out all the gender-based restrictions and abide by them.
Use a hotel known for its security and be sure that whatever
type of transportation you use, it is reliable and safe.
Ask hotel concierge or front desk manager to assist you
whenever you have questions about your safety. (They will also
arrange for you to have help, if you wish walking you to your
room very late at night or escorting you from a parking lot to the
hotel lobby).
The following websites offer specific advice for women:
Travel Tips for Women

Best Women's Travel Tips
Her Own Way: A Woman's Safe Travel Tips
Tips for Solo Women Travelers Women Travelers
Travel Tips
Crowded Situations
When youre in crowded places, be very careful to guard your

property at all times.
Carry as few valuable items with you as possible when you know
youre going to a crowded area. For example, expensive cameras,
PDAs and cash are easy targets.
Watch out for pickpockets who will try to distract you in many different
ways while taking your money. Even groups of children can be
working together to divert your attention while one will steal your
money.
Safety in Your New Home City
Learn about your host country and culture. This is not only wise for
business and social purposes, but is extremely important so you can
understand what may be offensive or negligent behavior.
The more you know about your location, the safer youll be; certainly
understand written and unwritten laws and codes of conduct.
Use your Embassy. These people are here to help you.
Embassies Around the World

Even if you are living in a relatively safe country, always be sure that
close family or friends have accurate contact information so they can
find you quickly.
For helpful information: Helpful Tips
If you are living in a high-risk location, your company should have
guidelines for your safety. Be sure you have 24-hour hotline numbers
and appropriate contacts who can assist you.
No matter where you livehigh risk or low risk countriestodays
world is volatile, and you never know when a potentially dangerous
situation can develop. Keep informednot only with your countrys
published data and warnings, but by identifying sources of local
news, reading local papers and telling your local friends to keep you
informed.
Emergencies
In an emergency that requires help by your government, such as a

lost passport or the need for money because yours has been stolen,
contact: Embassies Around the World
Make sure you know the name of the firm your company has selected
for medical emergencies and evacuation services. International SOS
provides emergency medical and evacuation services for individuals
and companies. You might want to contact: International SOS to see
if you qualify for some of their services.
Security Issues
Security is not simply a state-of-mind, nor is it a stroke of luck. Keeping

yourself and your family safe anywhere you gowhether it is an extended
trip within hours of your home or a long-term assignment halfway around
the worldrequires planning and active follow-through.
Clearly the length of time you spend and the geographic and political
profile of the countries youre living in--or traveling to--will make a
difference in your level of preparedness. Nonetheless, practicing common
sense based upon knowledge of your location will help you. Dont
underplay the importance of understanding what is culturally
appropriateit may help you avoid some difficult situations. With the
exception of the emergency telephone numbers, this information is
compiled for travelers in general and will apply in varying degrees to your
destination and personal situation. Always check to see what services your
company may offer to you.
Emergencies
In an emergency that requires help by your government, such as a

lost passport or the need for money because yours has been stolen,
contact: Embassies Around the World
Make sure you know the name of the firm your company has selected
for medical emergencies and evacuation services. International SOS
provides emergency medical and evacuation services for individuals
and companies. You might want to contact: International SOS to see
if you qualify for some of their services.
Prepare For Your Destination
Read about security and safety issues in the countries youll be

traveling to or living in.
For the most current, up-dated information, we recommend the
following government sites as quite comprehensive and easy-to-
understand:
Australian Travel Advisories
Canadian Travel Advisories
UK Travel Advice
US Travel Warnings
Read about other precautions you should take for weather- and
geographic-related concerns. For example, keep enough cash on
hand so you will be all right if there are power failures and ATM
machines dont work.
Be sure you know how to contact (and get to) your countrys
Embassy and Consulate wherever you are travelingyou need the
location details, phone and hours of operation. Embassies Around
the World
See if there are any health-related issues in the countries to which
youre traveling. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has in-
depth information regarding all regions of the world.
Be sure you know how to call for help in an emergency. You may need to
reach the police, fire and other emergency personnel. Be sure you know
the words to use in the local language.
En Route
Protect your passport; it is one of the most valuable items you

possess--so protect it as you would cash, credit cards and other
valuables. If it is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the nearest
appropriate Embassy or consulate.
Avoid calling attention to yourself by wearing fancy jewelry or carrying
other expensive items.
Whenever possible carry valuables and important prescription
medications in your carry-on luggage; do not pack valuables in your
checked luggage.
Do not leave laptops, computer bags or other luggage unattended at
any time.
Be able to answer questions about your luggage and be able to open
all suitcases and packages immediately, if asked.
Use your business address on your luggage tags, if possible.
Be sure to respond completely to requests by security officials and
avoid comments about security that could be misinterpreted.
When youre on the plane or train, read safety literature and be sure
you know where emergency exits are located.
For general information when you are en route, the U.S. State Dept.
offers a wide-range of information to travelers of all nationalities:
http://www.state.gov/travel/
Moving Around Safely
Always remain alert.

Avoid disturbances and loud arguments. When they occur, quickly
walk the other way.
Dress conservatively. Your interpretation of this guideline needs to be
based on local practices and customs. Attire you may think is
perfectly acceptable, may not be so youll be well served to learn
what is appropriate. Otherwise, you could run the risk of being
misinterpreted and perhaps becoming a target if your clothing is
provocative or offensive.
Ostentatious jewelry will also draw attention to you.
Learn about transportation in your locationwhats safe and what
can be problematic and when. Trains, subways, buses, independent
taxi cabs may pose specific problems. Find out before you go if it is
preferable to hire a private driver and car. Contact your Embassy for
detailed information.
You should also ask your company about specific transportation
guidelines theyve established for your safety.
Avoid areas where you can become a victim of crime, such as poorly-
lit streets, alleys, and deserted train stations.
If you drive, keep your doors locked and windows closed, and never
pick up hitchhikers.
Be wary when you are alone in lifts. Get off if someone suspicious
gets on.
If you find yourself alone in a train car or compartment after everyone
else leaves, you may feel safer moving to an occupied car. Identify
the location of the emergency alarm system.
Experts say that if someone does attack you, give them your
valuablesmoney and passportand do not fight back.
Be sure to know enough of the language to call for help. Consider
marking and tagging the pages of a phrase book with these types of
important phrases.
Even when you have a mobile phone, learn to use the local pay
phones and keep change with you.
Know Where Youre Going
Ask people in the hotel what areas you should avoid.

When you have a specific location youre going to, ask colleagues or
people who work in the hotel if there are things you should know
about that area.
If you cannot speak the local language, carry the card of your hotel or
your address with you at all times--as well as your destination
address.
Make others aware of your specific whereabouts, even when youre
going to business appointments.
*Sources: U.S. Transportation Security Administration
Settling In
Accommodation
Arrival Procedures
Conversions
Family Corner
Health and Safety
Media
Money and Banking

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Bangladesh has a rapidly changing culture where behaviors are dependent

Companies are generally extremely hierarchical, with a top-down

Business cards may include university degrees as a visible testament to

Personal relationships / Group Harmony

Unlike many Western cultures where business trust is based upon a

are attuned to understanding nuances such as hesitations. In general, if a

Meetings may be canceled or postponed at the last minute because the

Unlike previous generations who were under colonial restraints, Millennials

Bangladesh is a predominantly Islamic country with 83% Muslims (mostly

Bangladesh is a study of contrasts concerning the way women are viewed.

Since the World Conference on Women in Mexico in 1975, Bangladesh

Womens increasing presence in politics has led to changes in the family

Womens participation in economic activity has increased in both rural and

There have been many development initiatives for entrepreneurial women

In urban areas, working women are often deemed desirable as wives

View of Foreign Women

Since men are accustomed to treating women relatively formally, foreign

Since Bengali women seldom go out unescorted at night, a foreign woman

Tips for Businesswomen

Accept that you are in a male-dominated culture that is influenced by

Bengalis will generally treat a woman with respect if she demonstrates

A businesswoman should extend her hand to the Bengali businessman

If a businesswoman is meeting with a company for the first time, she

A businesswoman should be authorized to make decisions. Saying you

If you are naturally enthusiastic or effusive, strive to moderate your

Bangladesh is trying to change its image from solely a business destination

that would appeal to tourists.

Foreigners are generally well received since they bring much-needed

Foreign women who adopt a conservative wardrobe to reflect prevailing

Cross Culture Tips

The following cultural observations are based on the dimensions in the

Hierarchical vs. Egalitarian

How society is structured

Bangladesh is hierarchical, so when interacting with people from

Whether you are managing a corporate team or a household staff,

Show the appropriate level of deference and respect, through

Formal vs. Informal

The importance and value attached to professional vs. personal lives

Bangladesh is a formal society. When you interact with people from

Address people by their appropriate title and name. Do not move to

Group vs. Individual

The source of an individual's identity and loyalties

Bangladesh is a relatively group-oriented society. As you interact with

Interpersonal vs. Transactional

What constitutes a relationship

Bangladesh is an interpersonal, relationship-oriented culture. When you

Relationship building is important and tends to be somewhat formal

Direct vs. Indirect

The relative importance of verbal vs. non-verbal communication

Bangladesh is a very indirect communication culture. The following tips will

Non-verbal gestures are important to enhance the meaning and

Balance vs. Status

The importance and value attached to professional vs. personal lives

Bangladesh is a Balance-Motivation culture. When interacting with people

Individuals value their personal and family time.

Fluid vs. Controlled Time

Time schedules and deadlines are not necessarily considered final.

External vs. Internal

Bangladesh is an External Control society. When interacting with people

When introducing initiatives, be prepared for considerable discussion

Nearly 98% of the population is Bengali. Tribes comprise about 1% of the

About 83% of Bangladeshis are Muslim. The next major religion is

Population growth rate: