Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), on Friday said that tolerance - a core value of debate - is almost entirely absent from the country's political culture.
"Tolerance for differing opinions, compassion, respect for others’ views and rights, and the ability to counter disagreement through logic are the true values of debate, which are almost absent in our political culture," he said.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Inter-University Anti-Corruption Debate Competition 2025, Dr Iftekharuzzaman added, "Debate teaches us to be guided by honesty, justice, humanity, and the belief that all individuals are equal, regardless of race, religion, class, or profession."
The TIB organised the debate competition at CCDB Hope Centre in Savar, with Mohammad Tauhidul Islam, Director of TIB’s Outreach and Communication Division, acting as moderator. A total of 32 teams from public and private universities across the country participated, and a panel of judges evaluated the proceedings.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman highlighted that debate encourages presenting one’s own arguments, listening patiently to others, and expressing views rationally. "Unfortunately, our society, state, and political sphere suffer from a stark deficiency of these fundamental principles. To ensure good governance and progress, the younger generation must uphold and practice these values," he said.
He described the event as part of TIB’s effort to spread the anti-corruption social movement nationwide and empower youth. "We must stand firm against corruption—and in this struggle, the youth are our inspiration. Debaters will not only be inspired by the spirit of anti-corruption but will also motivate others. Today’s event serves as a bridge and a platform across generations, which fills us with pride and joy."
Emphasising gender equality, Dr Iftekharuzzaman noted that each team and judging panel this year includes at least one female participant. "One of the main reasons for violence against women is the lack of gender equality. Ensuring women’s equal participation in decision-making and implementation across society, the state, and families is indispensable. Through this competition, we aim to promote gender equality, and we hope the debaters carry this spirit forward."
He stressed that debate is not about winning or losing; it is a platform that sharpens rational thinking and contributes to knowledge and understanding at national, social, and global levels.
The champion team will receive Taka 50,000, the runner-up Taka 30,000, and the best debater Taka 10,000, alongside crests and certificates. The top eight teams will be invited to participate directly in next year’s edition, according to a TIB release.
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