<p>A yearly drain-out of over USD 12 billion from Bangladesh caused by corruption underscored the critical need for effective asset recovery measures. Despite the nation becoming a signatory to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) in 2007, efforts in asset recovery yielded minimal results. A key obstacle hindering successful asset recovery initiatives (ARIs) is the lack of political will of the state parties. This paper examines the influence of political will on ARI in Bangladesh, delving into theoretical and practical aspects affecting the endeavour. It argues that although UNCAC provides a framework for asset recovery, the viable repatriation of stolen funds depends largely on the political determination of involved state parties. However, the paper refrains from suggesting that political will is the sole factor determining the effectiveness of ARI. It concludes by emphasising the significance of strong political will at the highest level of government to overcome obstacles and optimise the benefits of the asset recovery mechanism.</p>