Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025, following his central role in leading the country through a critical democratic transition.
Yunus earned the recognition after taking the helm of the caretaker government in the wake of last year’s historic student-led uprising, which led to the ousting of the authoritarian regime. His leadership in restoring democratic values and institutions has drawn global praise, including from former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who penned his tribute for TIME.
“After a student-led uprising toppled Bangladesh’s authoritarian prime minister last year, a known leader stepped up to guide the nation toward democracy: Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus,” Clinton wrote.
The profile also reflects on Yunus’s groundbreaking contributions to global poverty alleviation through the Grameen Bank, which he founded in the 1970s to offer microloans to marginalized communities—particularly women. “Decades earlier, Yunus established the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh to empower the most marginalized communities… helping millions—97% of them women—build businesses, sustain their families, and reclaim their dignity,” Clinton added.
Clinton also highlighted her longstanding personal connection with Yunus, recalling his visit to Arkansas decades ago to help set up microcredit programs in the U.S., and noting his continued global influence in transforming lives and uplifting communities.
Now thrust back into national leadership, Yunus is being recognized not just for his legacy, but for his renewed mission to rebuild Bangladesh’s democratic framework, restore civil liberties, and ensure human rights.
“Now, Yunus has answered his country’s call once more. As he shepherds Bangladesh out of the shadows of oppression, he is restoring human rights, demanding accountability, and laying the foundations for a just and free society,” Clinton wrote.
The TIME 100 list honors individuals from across the world whose influence, innovation, and leadership are shaping the future.
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