M. A. Hossain

Recently, Bangladesh joined the Convention on Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization of Foreign Public Documents, also known as the Apostille Convention of 1961. The country’s efforts to simplify document authentication processes through the Apostille Convention are just one example of its commitment to improving the travel facilities for its citizens. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing global mobility, Bangladesh is positioning itself as a forward-thinking, welfare-oriented state.

Prior to this development, students, immigrants, workers, and others planning to go abroad had to authenticate their documents both domestically and at foreign offices, including embassies. This process was not only time-consuming and costly but also stressful. The challenge was compounded by the fact that not all countries have embassies in Bangladesh. For instance, 90 countries that do not have embassies in Bangladesh have them in India, necessitating trips to Delhi for authentication. This required obtaining an Indian visa, thereby adding further complications, expenses, and delays.

The state stands as the largest social institution, designed to serve and protect its citizens. In contemporary times, the primary objective of a state is to transition into a welfare state. The words of political scientist Thomas Greene are particularly relevant here: “Power is not the foundation of the state.” Rather, states have been created by humans out of necessity. By providing various facilities and ensuring the dignity of its citizens, the state can fulfill its positive role effectively.

States perform two types of functions: essential and optional. Essential functions are those necessary to protect the state's existence and the overall well-being of its citizens. These include maintaining law and order, protecting the nation from external threats, and providing basic public services. Optional functions, on the other hand, encompass the welfare role, which involves providing additional services that improve the quality of life for citizens. However, in modern times, many states have come to regard welfare functions as essential. Though theoretically optional, welfare activities have become indispensable in practice.

The concept of the welfare state is not new. Its roots can be traced back to the early 20th century in Europe, where countries like Germany and the United Kingdom pioneered social security systems and public health services. These early welfare states aimed to provide a safety net for their citizens, ensuring that basic needs were met and that individuals could thrive regardless of their socio-economic background.

In the post-World War II era, the welfare state model gained widespread acceptance, particularly in Western Europe and North America. Governments recognized the importance of investing in human capital and providing services that promoted social well-being and economic stability. Public education, healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pension systems became the hallmarks of welfare states, contributing to higher standards of living and greater social cohesion.

As a state, Bangladesh is striving to enhance its welfare activities, reflecting this global shift in the perception of state responsibilities. One significant step in this direction was taken on May 20, 2024, when the cabinet approved a proposal for Bangladesh to join the Convention on Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization of Foreign Public Documents, also known as the Apostille Convention of 1961. This decision marked a crucial milestone for Bangladeshi citizens, particularly those seeking opportunities abroad.

After the proposal was passed on May 20, 2024, it was expected to take about six months to come into force, as the 126 member states of the Apostille Convention needed to be notified. Remarkably, all formalities were completed in just 70 days. On July 29, 2024, Bangladesh officially joined the Apostille Convention. As a result, documents authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangladesh no longer require re-attestation in other countries. This move is expected to save money and reduce human suffering, undoubtedly marking a positive development for the nation.

Joining this convention is a landmark step for Bangladesh. From now on, Electronic Apostille Certificates will be issued, and their authenticity can be verified worldwide through the QR code on the certificate. This system, known as the Electronic Apostille Program (E-APP), will significantly reduce the harassment and suffering experienced by students and professionals traveling abroad. No longer will they face the cumbersome and often confusing process of document re-attestation in multiple countries. Instead, a single, streamlined process will suffice, greatly facilitating their global mobility and opportunities.

This step is part of a broader trend towards enhancing the welfare state, not just in Bangladesh but globally. Welfare measures are no longer seen as mere add-ons to the core functions of the state; they are integral to the state's role in ensuring the well-being of its citizens. This shift reflects a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of global systems and the necessity of simplifying processes to enhance international cooperation and individual mobility.

Moreover, these efforts reflect a deeper aspiration to build a positive national identity. The formation of welfare nation-states in the Western world often involved significant questions of self-identity and nation-building. In the last half-century, newly independent countries have frequently adopted new names and redefined their national identities as part of this process. Bangladesh, too, must maintain its self-identity while pursuing welfare measures. Building a civilized, educated, and humane nation requires not only economic development but also a strong sense of identity and community.

Of course, the path to becoming a fully-fledged welfare state is not without challenges. Bangladesh, like many developing countries, faces issues such as poverty, inequality, and limited resources. However, the commitment to welfare measures, as evidenced by the Apostille Convention, demonstrates a willingness to address these challenges head-on.

Moving forward, Bangladesh must continue to invest in education, healthcare, and social services. These investments are crucial for building human capital and fostering long-term economic growth. Additionally, the state must ensure that welfare measures are inclusive, reaching all segments of the population, including the most vulnerable.

The journey towards becoming a welfare state is a dynamic and ongoing process. For Bangladesh, joining the Apostille Convention marks a significant milestone in this journey. By simplifying document authentication processes, the state is not only reducing bureaucratic hurdles but also enhancing the global mobility of its citizens. This step, along with other welfare measures, reflects a broader commitment to improving the well-being of all citizens and building a positive national identity. As Bangladesh continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern world, its efforts towards becoming a welfare state will play a crucial role in shaping its future.

The writer is a political and defense analyst based in Bangladesh