Political violence and violent extremist groups had long been present in Bangladesh, but from 2013 onwards, and particularly after the July 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka, where 17 foreign nationals were killed, violent extremism unrelated to elections and national politics intensified, targeting foreigners, LGBTI activists, secular bloggers, and religious minorities. However, since 2017, Bangladesh witnessed a declining trend in violent extremism, with no major attacks reported. The Global Terrorism Index improved, and members of communities reported an increased sense of security.

In Bangladesh, the drivers behind violent extremism are: lack of trust in government, lack of socio-economic opportunities and religious divide. GCERF invested USD 10.9 million from 2016 till 2024. Bangladesh became the first country to graduate from GCERF funding in 2024.