Governance Challenges in Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh is confronted with a number of governance challenges. The present chapter analyzes three major governance challenges facing the country. All these challenges have far-reaching implications for the future progress and development of the country unless properly addressed. First and foremost challenge is the institutionalization of the democratic governance system in the country. Second, eradicating corruption from the polity is one of the most important challenges of today. Corruption has spread like cancer in all walks of life throughout the nook and corner of the country. Third, avoiding the tendency to politicize public services for narrow personal, group, and political interest is another key challenge of governance in Bangladesh. Politicization of public services is a continuing practice since the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent country in 1971. Quick mitigation of the three challenges will enable institutionalization of democracy, eradication of the curse of corruption, and merit and performance based public service. At the end of the day effectively facing the governance challenges will benefit citizens of the country.