On February 12, 2026, millions of Bangladeshi citizens participated in the country's general elections, which are noted as the first since the remarkable 2024 protests spearheaded by Generation Z that resulted in the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. These elections are a critical juncture for Bangladesh, with approximately 128 million registered voters, and an early participation rate reported at 32.88% by noon across a vast majority of the country's polling centers.

Analysts and observers highlight the importance of these elections for the political stability of Bangladesh, a nation with a population of 175 million. The protests that led to Hasina's fall were characterized by significant civil unrest and violence, following widespread dissatisfaction with governance and economic conditions. The unrest notably impacted key sectors, such as the textile industry, which is crucial to the country's economy and is recognized as the world's second-largest exporter.

As this election unfolds, it represents more than just a shift in leadership; it also signifies a broader empowerment of the youth voice in Bangladesh’s political landscape. The outcome could shape the future governance of the country and provide insights into the evolving relationship between generations in a rapidly changing socio-economic environment.