Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan stated that in today's world, information has become a strategic weapon for ensuring national security. “National security no longer relies solely on military strength—it is increasingly dependent on public opinion,” she said.
According to her, withholding information and suppressing the truth can jeopardize both sustainable development and national security. “Disinformation acts as a psychological weapon. To counter this, we need truth, trust, and information-based public awareness,” she emphasized, calling for national unity in this regard.
Rizwana Hasan also pointed to historical parallels, noting that misinformation and conspiracies were among the key reasons behind the defeat in the Battle of Plassey. “Similarly, in today’s digital age, rumors spread through social media pose a serious threat to both national development and security,” she added.
She identified the climate crisis as a critical national security issue for Bangladesh and noted that the UK is ready to assist Bangladesh with satellite-based data and training support.