During the 1971 Bangladesh War of Liberation, many foreign nationals around the globe made exceptional contributions in support of the independence movement. In 2012, the Government of Bangladesh began conferring special honours on these Friends of Bangladesh as an expression of gratitude for their great contribution. Awards were presented in three categories – Bangladesh Swadhinota Shammanona (Bangladesh Freedom Honour), Bangladesh Muktijuddho Shammanona (Bangladesh Liberation War Honour) and Muktijuddho Moitri Shammanona (Friends of Liberation War Honour).

A National Committee comprised of Ministers, civil servants, and civil society representatives was formed to draw up a list of these illustrious Friends of Bangladesh. A total of 335 individuals were awarded over seven phases from 2011 to 2013.

Credited as: Assistant Editor