“If America ever kicks me out, I have a country to take shelter in.”
These were the heartfelt words of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali during his visit to Bangladesh on February 18, 1978. That day, he was awarded honorary citizenship by Bangladesh—not just as a formality, but as a deep expression of love and respect.
Bangladesh has always honoured people from around the world who stood beside the country—during its war of independence, for development, or for humanitarian support. Whether it’s in war, industry, sports, or medicine—those who helped Bangladesh are warmly remembered.
Latest Recipient: Ki-Hak Sung of South Korea
In 2025, during a major investment summit, Bangladesh awarded honorary citizenship to Ki-Hak Sung, chairman of South Korea’s famous company Youngone Corporation.
He wasn’t just a business partner—Ki-Hak Sung has been with Bangladesh since the 1980s, when the garment industry was just beginning. He was the first foreign investor in this sector, and he dedicated over 40 years of his life to helping Bangladesh grow. His factories now provide jobs for thousands and help earn foreign currency for the country.
A few weeks before the award, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon asked Professor Muhammad Yunus (Chief Advisor of the caretaker government) if Bangladesh had any plans to honor Ki-Hak Sung. This started the process of giving him honorary citizenship, which was formally presented during the investment summit.
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What Does Honorary Citizenship Mean?
The Ministry of Home Affairs handles honorary citizenships.
Additional Secretary Md. Shamim Khan explained that this is a symbolic recognition of a foreigner’s contribution.
Honorary citizens do not get voting rights or other legal/political powers like regular Bangladeshi citizens. However, they are allowed to enter Bangladesh with visa-on-arrival facilities.
The exact number of people who have received this honour is not known, but only five people are confirmed to have received it so far.
People Who Received Honorary Citizenship of Bangladesh
Here are the respected individuals who have received honorary citizenship from Bangladesh:
1. Muhammad Ali
The world-famous boxer visited Bangladesh in 1978. Due to his stand for human rights and his refusal to fight in the Vietnam War, Bangladesh honoured him with honorary citizenship and even gave him a Bangladeshi passport.
2. Amartya Sen
Nobel Prize-winning economist Amartya Sen was born in Manikganj, Bangladesh, in 1933. After winning the Nobel Prize in 1998, he was honoured with honorary citizenship by the Bangladesh government.
3. Dr. Edric Baker
Born in New Zealand, Dr. Edric Baker came to Bangladesh in 1979 and spent his life treating poor rural people. He worked in Meherpur, Mirzapur, and Madhupur. For his selfless medical service, he received honorary citizenship in 2011.
4. Father Marino Rigon
An Italian priest, Father Marino Rigon came to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1953. During the Liberation War in 1971, he helped injured freedom fighters and supported the cause. He received honorary citizenship in 2009.
5. Gordon Greenidge
Former West Indies cricketer Gordon Greenidge became coach of the Bangladesh national cricket team in 1996. Under his guidance, Bangladesh won the 1997 ICC Trophy and qualified for the World Cup for the first time. He was honoured with citizenship and a Bangladeshi passport in 1997.
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In Conclusion
Honorary citizenship in Bangladesh is not about giving legal power. It is a symbol of deep respect and gratitude toward those who helped the country in meaningful ways.
Though small in size, Bangladesh has a big heart—and that’s why people like Muhammad Ali and Ki-Hak Sung are proud to call it their second home.
Honorary citizenship is one of the highest symbols of gratitude that Bangladesh offers to exceptional foreign friends. From global icons like Muhammad Ali to dedicated contributors like Dr. Edric Baker and Ki-Hak Sung, these individuals didn’t just support Bangladesh—they became part of its story. This special recognition celebrates not legal rights, but heartfelt appreciation for extraordinary service, solidarity, and friendship.
Source: Prothom Alo
