Donald Trump’s return to the White House has sparked intense global interest, as his approach to governance—defined by unilateralism, nationalism, and disruption—makes a reappearance on the world stage.
His swift implementation of campaign promises, ranging from immigration reform to controversial pardons, signals a determination to reshape domestic and international policies.
While his supporters celebrate these actions as fulfilling his electoral commitments, critics warn of heightened polarization and far-reaching consequences.
For nations like Bangladesh, India, and others in Asia, Trump’s presidency poses significant questions.
How will his renewed administration compare to his earlier tenure? What shifts in US diplomacy should these nations prepare for, and how might they navigate the potential fallout?
During his first presidency, Trump introduced a disruptive style of governance marked by “America First” policies.
His administration launched a trade war with China, exited the Paris Climate Accord, tightened immigration laws, and took a transactional approach to alliances and diplomacy.
These policies sent shockwaves through global institutions, such as NATO, the United Nations, and the World Trade Organization (WTO), which Trump openly criticized or sought to marginalise.
Returning to power, Trump has intensified his unilateral stance, signalling an era of even greater polarization. His focus has shifted slightly, with more pronounced actions on “restoring law and order,” evident in his controversial pardons of Capitol riot participants, and a stronger emphasis on bilateralism over multilateralism in foreign policy.
Trump’s renewed presidency reflects a mixture of continuity and escalation in key areas.
On trade and economic policies, his first term aggressively sought to reduce trade deficits, primarily targeting China.
His tariffs and renegotiated agreements inadvertently benefited smaller nations like Bangladesh, which gained some traction as companies sought alternatives to Chinese manufacturing.
However, the renewed emphasis on economic nationalism and import restrictions could reverse this trend.
Bangladesh’s garment industry, the backbone of its export economy, may face increased tariffs or diminished access to the US market.
Trump’s preference for reshoring industries might further disrupt supply chains, affecting countries reliant on American imports.
On immigration, Trump’s first term introduced reforms, including travel bans and visa restrictions, directly impacting South Asian countries.
The H-1B visa clampdown, for instance, hindered India’s IT sector and limited opportunities for skilled Bangladeshi professionals.
Now, stricter immigration policies may exacerbate the challenges faced by Bangladeshi expatriates in the US, reducing remittance flows vital to the country’s economy.
Deportations and tighter visa rules could further marginalise South Asian workers and strain bilateral relations.
Trump’s climate policies during his first term, including the withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord and rollback of environmental regulations, drew criticism worldwide but had limited immediate impact on vulnerable countries like Bangladesh due to ongoing international support for climate initiatives.
His renewed scepticism toward climate agreements could disproportionately affect Bangladesh.
As a nation on the frontlines of climate change—facing rising sea levels, cyclones, and displacements—Bangladesh depends on global cooperation and funding to address these challenges.
Trump’s policies may reduce such support, worsening the country’s vulnerability.
Trump’s first tenure fostered closer ties with India as part of his strategy to counter China, creating a ripple effect across South Asia.
Bangladesh, increasingly aligned with China through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), was left navigating a delicate balancing act.
With a renewed focus on confronting China, Bangladesh might now face intensified pressure to choose sides, risking strained relations with either the US or China.
Indo-US defence cooperation under Trump could embolden India’s regional ambitions, potentially creating tension along its border with Bangladesh.
Bangladesh may also face indirect consequences of heightened Sino-Indian rivalry, including economic disruptions and strategic pressures.
Trump’s engagement with South Asia during his first term often prioritised economic and strategic interests over human rights concerns, with limited intervention in internal governance issues.
However, his rhetoric around minority oppression in Bangladesh signals a possible shift, with increased scrutiny of governance and inclusivity.
This focus may conflict with Trump’s strategic priorities, particularly in countering China, which could undermine genuine advocacy for human rights.
Trump’s presidency represents a recalibration of US diplomacy, favouring bilateral engagements over multilateral cooperation.
This shift challenges smaller nations like Bangladesh, which have historically leveraged international forums to secure development aid and address global issues.
For Bangladesh, the stakes are particularly high.
As the country grapples with economic challenges, climate vulnerability, and regional power dynamics, it must adopt a multifaceted approach.
Economic diplomacy will require Bangladesh to diversify its export markets to reduce dependency on the US while strengthening ties with alternative trading partners in Europe and Asia.
Strategically, maintaining a neutral stance in the US-China rivalry will demand deft diplomacy to safeguard national interests without alienating key partners.
On the climate front, Bangladesh must intensify its role in global advocacy, rallying support from like-minded nations to counteract diminished US engagement.
Donald Trump’s renewed presidency is not merely a continuation of his earlier term but an escalation influenced by a shifting global context.
His policies—rooted in unilateralism and nationalism—threaten to redefine the international order, with significant implications for nations like Bangladesh.
For South Asia, navigating this uncertain landscape demands resilience, adaptability, and strategic foresight.
As the US-China rivalry intensifies and global institutions face further strain, the region must prepare for an era of heightened challenges and opportunities.
In this new Trump era, diplomacy will be the ultimate test of survival and success.
