Professor Muhammad Yunus Honored in Time’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025 for Leadership and Global Impact
Professor Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, has been recognized among Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025. This prestigious inclusion places him in the esteemed “Leaders” category alongside prominent global figures. The announcement, made on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, highlights Yunus’s pivotal role in guiding Bangladesh toward democracy following a significant student-led uprising last year.
A Global Beacon of Influence and Impact
The Time 100 list is a renowned compilation that celebrates individuals making a substantial difference in the world across various fields. Yunus’s presence on this list underscores his enduring legacy and ongoing impact on social and economic development. Notably, he is recognized as the oldest person on this year’s list.
Championing the Marginalized: The Legacy of Grameen Bank
Professor Yunus’s pioneering work in microfinance, most notably through the establishment of Grameen Bank in the 1970s, is a cornerstone of his global influence. Grameen Bank was founded with the revolutionary concept of providing small loans to impoverished communities, empowering millions—97% of whom are women—to build businesses, sustain their families, and reclaim their dignity. This innovative model has not only transformed countless lives but has also inspired similar microfinance initiatives worldwide. By demonstrating that the poor can effectively manage and repay loans, Yunus challenged conventional banking systems and championed credit as a basic human right.
A Return to Leadership and Democratic Steerage
Beyond his foundational work in microfinance, Yunus’s current role as Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government has significantly contributed to his inclusion in the 2025 Time 100 list. Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton penned a tribute for Time, commending Yunus for stepping forward to guide the nation toward democracy after the ousting of an authoritarian prime minister. Clinton recalled meeting Yunus in Arkansas to help establish similar microcredit programs and has witnessed the profound global impact of his work firsthand. She highlighted Yunus’s ongoing efforts to restore human rights, demand accountability, and lay the foundation for a just and free society in Bangladesh.
Shaping the Global Narrative
The Time 100 list acknowledges individuals who are making a huge difference in their field or interest, and Yunus exemplifies this by consistently championing social justice and economic empowerment. His recognition alongside figures like U.S. President Donald Trump, tech billionaire Elon Musk, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, places him among the top global influencers of the year. The list, now in its twenty-second year, is a testament to the diverse ways people can exert influence, from political leadership to groundbreaking innovation and humanitarian efforts. Yunus’s inclusion is a clear indicator that his vision for a poverty-free world, built on social business and financial inclusion, continues to resonate and inspire globally, making him a trending figure in discussions about development and leadership.
