Local Governance in Bangladesh

This book explores local governance in Bangladesh, focusing on Union Parishads, the lowest tier of government, and their role in enhancing service delivery through community participation. It highlights the importance of decentralization, particularly in education and healthcare, showcasing how local governments improve access and quality through collaboration with communities. Challenges like limited financial autonomy, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and political interference persist, but reforms aimed at financial decentralization, capacity-building, and participatory governance are key to overcoming these obstacles. The book emphasizes the need for digital governance, gender-responsive policies, and inclusive decision-making, advocating for a more transparent, accountable, and community-driven local government system. It stresses that success lies in collaboration between local governments, civil society, and citizens, paving the way for sustainable development and democratic governance in Bangladesh.