Bangladesh has formally sought an extension of its timeline for graduating from least developed country (LDC) status, citing global financial challenges and the need for a smoother transition. The request was presented by Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury, during the general debate of the ECOSOC Financing for Development Forum 2026 held at the UN headquarters on Thursday. The country asked to move its graduation date from November 24, 2026, to November 24, 2029.

Bangladesh first qualified for LDC graduation in 2018 and 2021 based on three criteria—per capita income, human assets, and economic and environmental vulnerability. The original graduation date was set for 2024 but was extended to 2026 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s letter to the UN Committee for Development Policy highlighted domestic and international challenges, including geopolitical tensions, reduced development aid, climate impacts, trade barriers, and energy uncertainty.

The ambassador emphasized that Bangladesh is prioritizing macroeconomic stability, rebuilding business confidence, strengthening the banking sector, and expanding support for vulnerable populations to ensure a sustainable transition.