Number: RS22591 Title: Islamist Extremism in Bangladesh Authors: Bruce Vaughn, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division Abstract: There is concern among observers that the secular underpinnings of moderate Bangladesh are being undermined by a culture of political violence and the rise of Islamist extremists. A further deterioration of Bangladesh's democracy and political stability may create additional space within which Islamist militants may be increasingly free to operate. Such a development may have destabilizing implications for Bangladesh, South Asia, and the Islamic world. They also have the potential to undermine U.S. interests. Pages: 6 Date: January 31, 2007