Bangladesh developing a globally aligned eye care system

Bangladesh is making a critical move to standardize its eye care sector, with the government unveiling initiatives on June 7, 2026, to establish formal registration and regulatory policies for optometry professionals. This systemic overhaul aims to combat prevalent vision impairment and align with global health standards, poised to enhance public trust and ensure quality eye care for its vast population, particularly in underserved rural areas. This push arrives as Bangladesh also plans a significant Tk420.2 crore expansion of its National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital (NIOH) to 500 beds, commencing January 2026, alongside calls for a dedicated 'Optometry Council' from professional bodies. The government's renewed focus on optometry, which includes formal recognition for a profession previously hampered by inconsistent regulation, addresses long-standing challenges like unqualified practitioners and limited access. This strategic alignment follows the country's proactive stance at the UN General Assembly in 2021, where it championed a resolution for global eye health, underscoring its commitment to Universal Eye Health Coverage by 2030. The success hinges on transparent implementation of the registration process and effective integration of optometrists into the broader public health framework. With the World Health Organization having recently sought proposals for a 'Roadmap to reduce vision impairment' in Bangladesh, the coming months will reveal detailed plans for workforce development, infrastructure improvements, and public awareness campaigns critical to achieving the nation's ambitious vision goals.