Institute of Liberal Democracy-ILD

The Institute of Liberal Democracy-ILD often referred to as the "ILD", is a Dhaka-based progressive think tank and is the policy-arm of the Liberal Party Bangladesh. Its political philosophy is broadly social liberalism, although it does have some classical liberal tendencies. Its stated aim is to promote "the ideas of liberal democracy that strive for civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights" and it has a strong commitment to human rights and civil liberties. In particular, the institute advocates radical democratic reforms to the Bangladeshi political system and is a strong supporter of minority rights, gender equality and secular values, which has made it unpopular with the country's political and religious establishment.

Its regular criticism of the government has led to a crackdown on much of the institute's activities and although it is legally registered as a non-profit, charitable organisation in Bangladesh, this is currently under threat as a result of severely-disputed allegations of illegal funding from foreign governments. The Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ILD, Sheikh Mohiuddin Ahmed, who is also leader of the Liberal Party Bangladesh, is currently in exile in Ireland. The current President of executive board is Mr Moshiur Rahman, ex-Director General of National Security Intelligence of Bangladesh.

ee also

*Liberal Party of Bangladesh
*Liberal International