Dhaka: Electronic Sports (e-sports) has been officially recognized as a ‘sport’ in Bangladesh, marking a significant development for the country’s gaming and e-sports community. The Ministry of Youth and Sports granted this recognition in accordance with sections 2(2) and 6 of the National Sports Council Act-2018.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement was made in a letter signed by Faisal Raihan, Senior Assistant Secretary, Sports Branch-1, Ministry of Youth and Sports. The letter, dated Monday last (July 14), has been welcomed with enthusiasm by e-sports enthusiasts and professionals in Bangladesh.
Despite this recognition, the government has formed a four-member committee to establish governance and policies for e-sports. This committee is tasked with submitting a report within the next twenty-one working days. Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, will convene the committee, which includes a Joint Secretary-level representative from the Information and Communication Technology Department, a professor from the Institute of Information Technology at Dhaka University, and the director (sports) of the National Sports Council, who will act as the member secretary.
The committee is expected to draft a policy in consultation with all stakeholders, adhering to the guidelines of the International Olympic Committee. It will also take into account the views of the IT Department and pertinent laws, rules, and government regulations. Expert assistance may be sought if necessary.
Experts believe that the official recognition of e-sports as a sport will provide governmental support to the youth involved in this sector and open up opportunities for international participation.