Draft:Shomon Robie

• Comment: In accordance with Wikipedia's Conflict of interest policy, I disclose that I have a conflict of interest regarding the subject of this article. TASINSANA (talk) 13:45, 26 May 2025 (UTC)

---

Shomon Robie (born July 15, 1974) is a Bangladeshi atheist activist, secularist, and advocate for freethought, known for his public renunciation of Islam and his vocal criticism of religious dogma in a predominantly Muslim society. His bold stance on atheism and his push for a secular state have made him a polarizing figure, earning support from secular communities and significant backlash from religious conservatives in Bangladesh.

Early Life

Shomon Robie was born in Pabna, Bangladesh, into a traditional Muslim family. Details about his early education remain limited, but Robie has shared in interviews that his skepticism toward religion emerged during his late teens. Exposure to secular literature, including works by philosophers such as Bertrand Russell and contemporary atheist writers, prompted him to question the religious teachings of his upbringing. This intellectual awakening laid the foundation for his later activism. In 2003, Robie formally changed his name from Md. Shayeedul Hassan to Shomon Robie before the First Class Magistrate Court of Dhaka, Bangladesh. This act symbolized his commitment to embracing a non-religious identity, reflecting his desire to live by a philosophy rooted in rationalism and freethought.

Activism

Robie rose to prominence in the early 2010s by publicly declaring his atheism, a courageous and rare stance in Bangladesh, where Islam is the state religion and blasphemy laws, combined with societal pressures, often stifle dissent. He became a key figure in Bangladesh’s nascent atheist movement, engaging in online forums, social media platforms, and discreet gatherings to promote secularism, scientific rationalism, and critical thinking. His activism intensified as he began writing articles and delivering talks that critiqued the influence of religion in politics, education, and public life. Robie has consistently advocated for the separation of religion and state, arguing that religious doctrines, particularly those rooted in conservative interpretations of Islam, are incompatible with modern human rights standards and gender equality. His writings often emphasize the need for educational reforms to prioritize scientific inquiry over religious instruction. Robie’s outspoken critiques have drawn significant attention, both positive and negative. He has collaborated with other secular activists and bloggers in Bangladesh, contributing to a growing network of freethinkers. However, his confrontational approach has sparked controversy, with some accusing him of alienating potential allies in the broader push for secular reforms.

Challenges and Controversy

In Bangladesh, where religious dissent can lead to severe consequences, Robie’s activism has placed him at considerable personal risk. The murders of fellow atheist bloggers, such as Avijit Roy in 2015 and Niloy Neel in 2016, by extremist groups highlight the dangers faced by outspoken nonbelievers. Robie himself has faced death threats and accusations of blasphemy, a charge that carries severe legal and social repercussions in Bangladesh. He has publicly criticized the Bangladeshi government for its perceived inaction in protecting secular activists, accusing authorities of prioritizing appeasement of religious hardliners over safeguarding free expression. Robie’s views have polarized public opinion. Supporters view him as a courageous defender of free speech and rationalism, applauding his resilience in the face of adversity. Conversely, critics, including mainstream Islamic scholars and conservative groups, have labeled his rhetoric as provocative and disrespectful to cultural norms. Even within secular circles, some activists have questioned whether his confrontational style risks undermining efforts to foster gradual, inclusive reforms in Bangladesh’s conservative society.

Legacy and Influence

Despite the challenges, Shomon Robie remains a pivotal figure in Bangladesh’s atheist and secular movement. His advocacy has brought international attention to the struggles of freethinkers in Muslim-majority countries, highlighting the tension between religious conservatism and the push for ideological freedom. Robie’s work has inspired a younger generation of Bangladeshis to question traditional norms and engage in discussions about secular governance, though his influence remains constrained by the country’s restrictive environment. His contributions extend beyond activism to the broader discourse on human rights in Bangladesh. By challenging the integration of religion in public institutions, Robie has sparked debates about the role of secularism in shaping Bangladesh’s political and cultural future. His persistence in the face of threats underscores the high personal cost of advocating for freethought in a society where such views are often met with hostility.

Personal Life

Due to ongoing security concerns, Robie maintains a low profile, and little is publicly known about his personal life. He has acknowledged in interviews that the threats to his safety have forced him to adopt a cautious lifestyle, limiting his public appearances and personal disclosures. Despite these challenges, Robie continues to engage with supporters through online platforms, where he shares his writings and engages in discussions about secularism and human rights.