News Desk : Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has been recognised by TIME Magazine as one of ‘The 100 Most Influential People of 2025’, a testament to his enduring impact on global and national stages.

The prestigious list was unveiled on Wednesday evening, featuring an array of world leaders, political figures, innovators, and cultural icons. Among those named alongside Yunus are Donald Trump, Elon Musk, JD Vance, Claudia Sheinbaum, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and many others who have shaped the global narrative in significant ways.

TIME100: A celebration of influence and impact

Now in its twenty-second year, the TIME100 list pairs honourees with guest contributors who pen tributes highlighting their contributions. This year’s edition features notable voices celebrating the achievements of these influential figures. Hillary Rodham Clinton wrote about Professor Yunus, paying tribute to his lifelong dedication to social justice, economic empowerment, and democratic governance.

Clinton reflected on Yunus’s pivotal role in guiding Bangladesh following last year’s student-led uprising that ousted the country’s authoritarian Prime Minister. “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,” she wrote.

She recalled Yunus’s ground-breaking work with the Grameen Bank, which he founded decades ago to empower marginalised communities through microfinance. “Decades earlier, Yunus established the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh to empower the most marginalized communities through small loans, helping millions—97% of them women—build businesses, sustain their families, and reclaim their dignity,” Clinton noted.

Her tribute highlighted the profound global influence of Yunus’s vision, citing her own experience working with him during her time as First Lady of Arkansas. “I first met Yunus when he travelled to Arkansas to help then-governor Bill Clinton and me set up similar programmes in the US Since then, wherever I’ve travelled in the world, I have witnessed the extraordinary impact of his work—lives transformed, communities lifted, and hope reborn,” she said.

Clinton concluded by emphasising Yunus’s ongoing commitment to rebuilding Bangladesh. “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,” she added.

A legacy of innovation and leadership

The inclusion of Professor Yunus on the TIME100 list underscores his dual legacy as both a pioneer of social entrepreneurship and a steadfast advocate for democracy. From his revolutionary work with microcredit to his current leadership role in steering Bangladesh toward a brighter future, Yunus continues to inspire millions worldwide.

This recognition places Yunus among other luminaries celebrated for their transformative contributions. For instance, Shonda Rhimes wrote about Ted Sarandos, Will Ferrell honoured Lorne Michaels, and Aly Raisman paid tribute to Simone Biles.

Similarly, Chris Evans wrote about Scarlett Johansson, and Jorge Ramos highlighted the achievements of Claudia Sheinbaum.

Global influence amid challenges

Yunus’ induction into the TIME100 comes at a critical juncture for Bangladesh, as the nation navigates the complexities of transitioning from authoritarian rule to a more democratic framework. His leadership has been marked by a steadfast focus on human rights, accountability, and sustainable development—principles that resonate deeply with the aspirations of Bangladesh’s youth-led movements.