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The Politics of Civil Society and Good Governance in Bangladesh: A

Theoretical and Empirical Inquiry

Sanjida Afroze, Abdullah Al Tufayel Al Ahmad, Ahamad Ali

Department of Political Science, Lecturer, Department of Political Science, Dhaka International

University, Dhaka, Bangladesh

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.910000187

Received: 02 October 2025; Accepted: 08 October 2025; Published: 07 November 2025

ABSTRACT

This study deals with the civil society, good governance and people’s responsive to the government. Civil

society is an organization that is not affiliated to any political party and always works for the welfare of the

people. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are important in promoting good governance in Bangladesh by

increasing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. The background of civil society in Bangladesh

is not very old. Various levels of civil society participation can be observed in different contexts and programs

in post-independence. This research has analyzed the activities of civil society in Bangladesh, it’s current status,

and what challenges civil society faces in establishing good governance, and way forward to deal with these

challenges. This study also shows how the state of society can be improved by taking various measures at the

government level. Also analyzing case studies, interviews and secondary data, the research highlights how CSOs

advocate for policy reforms, monitor government actions and empower marginalized populations to voice their

concerns. The research findings emphasize the need for stronger collaboration among CSOs, government

agencies, NGO’s and international partners to create an enabling environment for sustainable governance. The

study concludes that the empowerment of civil society is essential to develop democratic principles, ensure

accountability and achieve inclusive development in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Civil Society, Good Governance, Bangladesh.

JEL Classification: H83, 0, L31

INTRODUCTION

Bangladesh is a populous country located in the South Asian region. It has seen multifaceted political and socio-

economic changes since independence in 1971. The current era has witnessed significant progress as well as

ongoing difficulties, thus emphasizing the utmost importance of striving for effective governance within the

country (Transparency International Bangladesh, 2020). The presence of corruption, lack of transparency and

political instability has presented considerable obstacles to the progress of the nation and the welfare of its people

(The Asia Foundation, 2018). Within this specific framework, civil society organizations have emerged as

important catalysts for transformation, taking a central position both in advocating for and actively contributing

to the advancement of effective government. This research undertakes a qualitative investigation to explain the

complex dynamics of civil society's contribution to promoting good governance in Bangladesh as well as to

understand the factors influencing their effectiveness in this pursuit. Bangladesh's post-independence history has

been marked by a remarkable display of stability and a process of transformation. After a long and arduous

struggle for self-determination, the country faced the daunting challenge of building a coherent and functional

state. Throughout its history, Bangladesh has made significant progress in all areas of development, including

education, health care and poverty alleviation (Bank, 2020). Nevertheless, the nation-building process is not free

from challenges that often arise. Achieving effective governance remains an important obstacle for Bangladesh.

The concept of good governance encompasses basic concepts including transparency, accountability,

involvement and loyalty.

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Civil society in Bangladesh includes non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based groups, and

grassroots movements that work to amplify the voices of marginalized populations. These organizations play an

important role in tackling issues such as corruption, human rights abuse and social inequality. Civil society works

in an effort to influence government policy-making and promote citizen participation. Previous research has

highlighted the positive impact of civil society on good governance. However, there is a lack of comprehensive

research that examines the specific processes through which civil society contributes to improving the quality of

governance in countries. This research aims to explore the strategies employed by civil society organizations to

increase transparency, encourage citizen participation and advocate for policy reforms and fill this gap by

exploring how active and passive civil society is in establishing good governance in Bangladesh. Civil society

in Bangladesh is currently facing multiple challenges. Political pressure, repression, and lack of creativity

hamper their activities. In many cases organizations face constraints, which impair their effectiveness. Besides,

lack of money is also a big problem. Reliance on international donors calls into question their transparency and

effectiveness. As a result, in recent years, it is seen that civil society is losing its popularity day by day in

establishing effective governance in the context of Bangladesh.

Background of the Study

Civil society in Bangladesh has a remarkable history in the development of good governance in the socio-

economic, political and historical context of the country. After independence in 1971, Bangladesh faced

numerous challenges including political instability, poverty and social inequality. In this context, civil society

organizations (CSOs), including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations and

advocacy groups, have emerged as important actors in addressing these issues. They have been instrumental in

advocating for human rights, promoting social justice and increasing government accountability. The 1990s

marked a turning point for civil society in Bangladesh. This is because increased political liberalization allows

civil society to be more actively involved in governance and development processes (Rahman, 2008). They

mobilize citizens to participate in democratic practices and facilitate dialogue between government and the

public, thereby increasing transparency and accountability. Despite facing various challenges, including political

repression and restrictive regulations, civil society has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. These

organizations especially continue their efforts to fight corruption, reform policies and empower marginalized

communities. This results in a strong participatory governance structure (Rahman, 2011). Today, civil society

continues to be an important force in Bangladesh, promoting good governance and striving to ensure that citizens'

voices are heard in decision-making processes that affect their lives (Hossain, 2008).

Objectives

This study has been made of the following objectives:

 To analyze the involvement of civil society organizations in governance issues of Bangladesh.

 To explore the ways to engage citizens and civil society in governance process of Bangladesh.

 To propose some measures to be undertaken in an effort to improve the governance situation of

Bangladesh.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Ipshita Basu, Joe Devine, and Geof Wood (2017) described in their book ‘Politics and Governance in

Bangladesh: Uncertain Landscapes’ about the paradox of Bangladesh's governance: notable economic progress

amidst a weak governance framework. It focuses on issues like political settlement, elite dynamics, and civil

society's role in local political change. Divided into four thematic sections, the book blends theoretical insights

with empirical analysis, making it an essential resource for understanding governance and political dynamics in

South Asia.

Tasnim, F. (2022) ‘Civil Society in Bangladesh: Vibrant but Not Vigilant’ offers an in-depth analysis of the role

of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Bangladesh, especially in their contribution to development and

democracy. The book critically examines the paradox of vibrant CSOs failing to consolidate democracy,

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highlighting challenges such as clienteles, corruption, and weak state monitoring. Combining case studies and

empirical data, it provides insights into the limitations of CSOs in fostering governance.

Jahan, R. (2020) explored on her book ‘Civil Society and Democratic Consolidation in Bangladesh’ about the

role of civil society in strengthening democratic values and promoting good governance in Bangladesh. It

examines how civil society organizations (CSOs) have contributed to democratic processes, held governments

accountable and influenced policy decisions while also discussing the challenges they face such as political

polarization and limited freedoms under authoritarian tendencies. In her various writings, she has highlighted

that while civil society in Bangladesh has been instrumental in advocating democratic rights and promoting

political accountability, it is also hampered by political interference, lack of funding and repression by

authoritarian regimes. She emphasizes the need for strong institutional frameworks and support for civil society

to ensure its effectiveness in promoting good governance and inclusion.

Rahman, M. M. (2008) ‘Civil Society and Governance in Bangladesh: A Critical Review of the Role of NGOs’

International Journal of Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Marketing. This literature review critically assesses the

role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) within civil society in Bangladesh. It examines how these

organizations contribute to the promotion of good governance through advocacy, capacity building and service

delivery. The paper highlights the dual role of NGOs as watchdogs and service providers, emphasizing their

impact on local governance, accountability and community empowerment. Additionally, it addresses challenges

such as government restrictions and funding constraints that NGOs face in effectively contributing to

governance.

Rahman, K. (2012) ‘Civil Society, Governance and Development: The Bangladesh Experience’ Journal of South

Asian Development. This study explores the interrelationship between civil society, governance and

development in Bangladesh. It argues that civil society plays crucial role in promoting good governance by

holding government institutions accountable and advocating for social justice. The paper discusses the

contribution of various civil society actors in areas such as education, health and rural development, emphasizing

their role in implementing development programs and policies. Moreover, it addresses the challenges posed by

political instability and authoritarian rule.

Zaman, S., and Hossain, A. (2020), examines the emergence of digital civil society in Bangladesh and its role in

promoting good governance in ‘Digital Civil Society and Good Governance in Bangladesh: Opportunities and

Challenges’ Journal of Governance and Development. This study examines. The authors discuss how social

media and digital platforms have enabled civil society organizations to mobilize citizens, advocate for

transparency, and hold governments accountable. The paper highlights case studies of digital campaigns that

have successfully engaged the public on governance issues. However, it also addresses challenges such as the

digital divide, misinformation and government censorship that threaten the viability of digital civil society

initiatives.

METHODOLOGY

This study draws through a qualitative data collection strategy using inductive reasoning. The relevant data were

gathered both from primary and secondary sources. Survey method has been used to collect primary sources of

data by using a systematic questionnaire. To collect secondary sources of data, various books, journals, articles

and papers related to the current research topic have been collected and observed and extracted the appropriate

references at the required places. Various civil society organizations, research reports, interviews with policy

makers and media reports were analyzed for data collection. Also, some case studies are included to understand

the relationship between good governance and civil society activities.

Conceptual Clarity: Civil Society and Good Governance

Civil Society

Civil society is an important element for good governance and decentralization, an element that is responsible

to hold those in power accountable and promoting democracy. Simply put, civil society is not dependent on any

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institution of the state, the private sector and the sphere of civil society, capable of stimulating resistance and

change in undemocratic regimes. Patrick Chabal, in reference to African civil society, defines it as a vast body

of constantly changing groups and individuals (who have acquired some sense of their externality and opposition

to the state). It should be notified that, although civil society is an agent of change, it is not mandatory opposed

to the state, especially if the latter practices good governance. Civil society is the sphere of organized social life

that is voluntary, self-producing, self-supporting, and autonomous from the state, and bound by legal or shared

norms. Civil society is a place where citizens can engage each other in the personal conversations and discussions

that are the essence of not only community building but democracy itself.

Although the concept of civil society evolve in the context of political thought, its roots date back at least as far

as ancient Rome. To the Roman statesman Cicero (106 BCE to 42 BCE), the term ‘societas civilis’ referred to a

political community consisting of multiple cities that were governed by the rule of law and typified by a degree

of urban sophistication. Such communities were meant in contrast to uncivilized or uncivilized tribal settlements.

During the Enlightenment of the 17th century, European writers such as Thomas Hobbes and John Locke

mentioned social and moral sources of legitimacy to the state or government with the concept of civil society.

On the other hand, the idea widely held in ancient Greece that societies could be characterized by the character

of their political constitution and institutions, Hobbes and Locke claimed that society was conceived before the

establishment of political authority as an extension of their ‘social contract’. Between these two views, the 18th-

century Scottish economist Adam Smith put forward the idea that civil society arose out of the development of

an independent commercial system. Within this order, Smith claimed, extended a chain of interdependence

between mainly self-seeking individuals and an independent "public sphere," in which the common interests of

society as a whole could be pursued. From Smith's writings, the idea is that people have their own opinions on

matters of common concern, and that such "public opinion" shared in visible forums such as newspapers,

coffeehouses, and political rallies can influence elected policymakers. By the 1980s, the importance of social

society as originally envisioned by Adam Smith became popular in political and economic discourse as it

identified with non-state movements that rejected authoritarian rule, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe

and Latin America.

English and German versions of civil society have been particularly influential in shaping the thinking of

Western theorists since the late 20th century. After being rarely discussed in the 1920s to 1960s, civil society

became commonplace in political thought in the 1980s. The concept played a key role in the idealization of civil

society that emerged in Eastern European intellectual circles after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the

collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. A web of autonomous associations that were independent of the state and

that bound citizens together over common concerns or as a necessary means of achieving economic prosperity

and civil liberties in Western democracies. In the 1990s, in particular, many writers, politicians and public

authorities were interested in finding solutions to the various problems faced by developing countries that held

civil society as a kind of panacea. Relatedly, the term has become a conceptual cornerstone of academic thinking

about democratic transitions and a familiar part of the discourse of global institutions, leading non- governmental

organizations and Western governments. Over time the ideological character and political implications of such

ideas became increasingly apparent (Kastrati, 2016).

Civil Society: A Conceptual Voyage

The term civil society is a famous and articulated word, and originates from Aristotle's expression Koinonia

Politike, which means a network described by a mutual understanding and shared values based on civil law

(Nezhina, 2017). The idea of civil society is generally defined as space and buffer between the state and market

where individuals publicly debate with political and national issues related to the interest of common people.

There are lots of definition of civil society and there is no universally accepted definition. According to

Veneklasen, ‘Civil society is a sphere of social interaction between the household (family) and the state which

is manifested in the norms of community cooperative, structures of voluntary association and networks of public

communication norms are values of trust, reciprocity, tolerance, and inclusion, which are critical to cooperation

and community problem solving, structure of association refers to the full range of informal and formal

organization through which citizens pursue common interests’ (Veneklasen 2003). Civil society, according to

Harry Blair (2000), ‘the collective of those social organizations that enjoy autonomy from the state, and have as

one important goal, among others, to influence the state, one behalf of their members’. Connor has also expressed

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a similar view, ‘civil society is composed of autonomous associations which develop a dense, diverse and

pluralistic network. As it develops, civil society will consist of a range of local groups, specialized organizations

and linkages between them to amplify the corrective voices of civil society as a partner in governance and the

market’ (Connor, 1999). The World Bank defined from a different aspect, according to the bank, ‘Civil Society

Organizations (hereafter CSOs) refers to a wide area of organizations: community groups of people, non-

governmental organizations (NGOs), labor units, indigenous association, charitable funds, faith-based

organizations, professional groups, and foundations’ (The World Bank 2010). Some cardinal features of civil

societies have been identified by reviewing various definitions:

1. Separated form but the linkage between the state and the market;

2. Formed by the group of people who have common desire, interests and values like tolerance, inclusion,

essence of cooperation and equality;

3. Non-political and non-bureaucratic;

4. Non-governmental and non-profit organization but act for the welfare of common people; and finally,

5. Developed by an autonomous process that cannot easily be controlled from outside.

Civil Society under Authoritarianism

Civil society operates in an authoritarian setting for a particular issue. A focus on a Tocquevillian definition of

civil society has led to what Carothers calls a “gross oversimplification of the makeup and roles of civil society

in other countries [outside the United States] around the world. There is no query that civil society operates

differently under authoritarianism than it does under democratic form of government. Under the liberalized

autocracies of the Middle East, civil society is simply not autonomous. The robust security apparatuses,

corporatist nature of the regimes, and co-optation of the civil society sphere by the state are just some of the

obstacles that prevent civil society from operating independently of the regime (Yerkes, 2010).

Since the ending of the Cold War, authoritarian leaders in the Arab world have supposed to mounting pressures

from both internal and external actors to democratize by adopting a variety of liberalization initiatives, including

implementing electoral democracy, opening up the space for civil society and granting new civil liberties such

as women and minorities. During the past five years alone, regimes across the region instituted remarkable acts

that appeared to set the Middle East on a course toward electoral democracy. Several states held historic

elections, Saudi Arabia held its first municipal elections in 50 years, also Bahrain its first parliamentary elections

in 30 years, Egypt its first ever competitive presidential elections, and opposition parties made great gains in

elections in Iraq, the Palestinian Authority, Lebanon and Egypt– while Qatar adopted its first written constitution.

As Robert Bianchi, writing in the 1980s, described the situation in one Arab state, “Fearful of the social and

political unrest leads the opposition choice’, Egypt’s rulers have tried to promote a live-and-let live attitude

among antagonistic interests and ideologies without relinquishing power to any of them (Yerkes, 2010).

Effectiveness of Major Civil Society Organizations in Bangladesh

Thousands of civil society organizations are registered in Bangladesh under various subjects, mainly working

on microcredit, primary education, health and sanitation, public policy, good governance etc. Some of the major

civil society organizations in Bangladesh that promote democratic governance are-

1. Center for Public Policy Dialogue (CPD): It was established in 1993 to contribute to national policy

development dialogue. CPD works on governance and development including organizing multi-

stakeholder consultations, conducting research on national and interest issues, influencing policy-making

processes in Bangladesh.

2. Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB): It is a non-governmental, non-partisan organization that

started in 1996 as a social movement against corruption and raising its voice to demand transparency,

accountability and good governance.

3. Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA): It started its mission in 1991 as an advocacy group of

young lawyers working on strategies and tactics with the legal system for environmental protection and

ensuring a beautiful environmental and ecological order for all.

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4. Shushanoner Jonno Nagorik (SUJAN): It works to make citizens aware of their rights and duties,

equality, justice and ensure democratic practices in all spheres of society.

5. NGO's: Miltin (Bernard and Helmich, 1998), in his article, gives examples of civil society as different

forms of organization, including: non-governmental organizations, non-profit organizations, informal

organizations solving public problems, interest and self-help groups. NGOs can be defined as voluntary

organizations that often act on behalf of others.

6. BRAC: BRAC is one of the largest NGOs in the world. It works in poverty alleviation, education,

healthcare, and social development.

7. Grameen Bank: Nobel Laureate Dr. Founded by Muhammad Yunus, this organization ensures financial

security of the poor through microcredit.

8. Gonoshattha Kendra: An ancient organization working to ensure health care.

9. SDI (Society for Development Initiatives): An NGO working for development and poverty alleviation.

These organizations have enriched the civil society of Bangladesh and are contributing to solving various social

and economic problems (Barikdar, 2023).

Governance and Good Governance

Generally, governance refers to the system or process of the government and the way of ruling of government

activities and good governance refers to properly managed socio-economic and political order and public

participation and accountable administration at both the macro and micro levels of a state. Governance is the

process by which a social system (family, tribe, formal or informal organization, across a region or region)

interacts through laws, rules, power or language in an organized society. This is done by a state government, by

a market or by a network. It is decision-making among actors involved in a collective problem that leads to the

creation, reinforcement, or reproduction of social norms and institutions (Barikdar, 2023). On the other hand,

Good governance is the process of applying the capabilities necessary for a balanced system of social and

economic governance of a country for overall development. It is the product of a state system in which there will

be a relationship between the governed and the governed, democracy, rule of law, maximum transparency of

expression and accountability. That is, good governance refers to a system of governance in which fair, just,

transparent, and accountable administration is ensured. In this regime, law, morality, and social justice are

established, where the rights of all citizens are protected and opportunities are created for all. The aim of good

governance is the development of the country, the provision of social services, and the improvement of the

quality of life of the people.

Actors of Good Governance

[Made By Author, Information Collected from ‘Good Governance Theory and Practice, Dr. Md. Mostafizur

Rahman, February 2014’]

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1. Participation: To ensure good governance, opportunities for active participation in policy- making and

decision-making should be provided to all stakeholders. It reflects the different opinions and needs of the

people.

2. Rule of Law: The main purpose of rule of law is to enforce and protect law equally for all, ensure human

rights and establish justice.

3. Transparency: Transparency is ensured by making information available to the people about the

decision-making process and government activities. It increases public confidence and they can give

opinions based on correct information.

4. Consensus-based: Good governance takes decisions through a collective consensus, protecting the

interests of all parties, so that the needs of the larger population are met.

5. Accountability: Government officials and institutions have to ensure accountability for their work to the

public. It increases their accountability to the public.

6. Effectiveness and efficiency: Effective and efficient governance is about meeting the needs of the people

at the right time and ensuring proper utilization of resources.

7. Equity and Inclusion: Good governance ensures that all citizens have equal opportunities and that no

group or group is excluded but also included in the society.

8. Responsiveness: Responsiveness to the present and future needs of the people and rapid adaptation to

changing circumstances is an important feature of good governance.

Relationship between Civil Society and Good Governance

Civil society and good governance are closely related, as they complement each other. Civil society articulates

the voice of the common people and works to ensure justice, transparency and accountability in the political,

social and economic structures of a state. On the other hand, good governance is an administrative system based

on principles and where the best interests of the people are protected. A key element of good governance is

accountability, civil society works towards that end. Various civil society organizations and organizations

monitor administrative activities and demand accountability from the government on behalf of the people. For

example: anti-corruption movement, review of government commitments and project implementation, etc.

Transparency is necessary to ensure good governance. It works for transparency and plays a role in ensuring

access to information for people. For example: mass media, NGOs, and social organizations make people aware

and disseminate information about the activities of the state. Civil society works for the establishment of justice

and protection of human rights, which is an essential aspect of good governance. It carry out various activities

to protect the rights of neglected and oppressed people and strive for justice and bridging between the

government and the people and brings out the views of the general public in the formulation of various policies.

Civil society thus ensures inclusive participation in good governance, where the voice of the people is valued.

The main objective of good governance is to ensure overall development of the people and Civil society works

to promote environmental awareness, health awareness and education, which are important for sustainable

development.

The Politics of Civil Society and Democratic Governance in Bangladesh

A strong civil society is a prerequisite for a stable democracy. Bangladesh is world renowned for its strong civil

society. Civil society in Bangladesh has been playing a significant role in strengthening democratic governance

in the following ways: (I) Advocating for democratic change: Civil society is about keeping a watchful eye on

the activities of government officials and working for democratic change. It express public interest in

government and shape public opinion on issues related to the socio-economic and economic life of the people.

At present civil society is active in socio-economic development of the country and nurturing the newly

established democracy in the country. (II) Strengthening the Electoral System: Civil society also plays a role in

strengthening the electoral system and political culture in Bangladesh. They contribute to voter education and

citizen mobilization. For example, in 2006–2008, the role of civil society was most constructive in the revival

of electoral democracy in Bangladesh, from the start of the first electoral campaign for the abandoned 2007, 9th

parliamentary elections to its successful conduct in 2008. (III) Public Awareness: Public awareness is important

for democratic governance and democratic consolidation. Civil society plays a role in making people aware of

electoral and other issues. For example, The Susan and The Daily Star jointly launched a campaign for political

reform in Bangladesh in September, 2004. (IV) Democratization and Decentralization: To effectively carry out

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their tasks related to decentralization and democratization, CSOs need capacity for fundraising and financial

management, data collection and research techniques as well as networking to develop communication skills

and coordinated advocacy. For example, The Center for Public Policy Dialogue (CPD) creates an interface

between stakeholders and government to help civil society segments become better informed and network. It is

a way of making the government accountable to civil society and civil society accountable to the government.

(V) Accountability and Transparency: Civil society makes the people aware of the policies and programs adopted

by the government and thus the government does not dare to take any decision that goes against the interest of

the common man. For example, on 20 March 2006, the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) organized a national

policy dialogue for the National Elections-2007, which sought to promote civil society accountability and

provide better services to the public. (VI) Quality of life of the people: Civil society plays a role in improving

the quality of life of the people of Bangladesh by undertaking income generation programs and other activities.

For example, Grameen Bank, Asha, Prashika are examples of NGOs working in poverty alleviation through

microcredit, skill development and employment generation in Bangladesh.

Activity of the Politics of Civil Society in Bangladesh

The role of civil society organizations in Bangladesh is very important for the socio-economic development and

establishment of good governance in the country. They work to raise awareness among people, which plays an

important role in solving various problems of the society. These organizations are actively working on issues

like child labor, child marriage, violence against women, and environmental pollution. They make tireless efforts

to solve local problems, especially the drinking water crisis of people in remote areas, sanitation problems, and

help farmers develop. Civil society organizations project a positive image of Bangladesh at the international

level and attract development cooperation. They support research and evidence-based policy formulation and

complement government development plans. Their contribution to empowering women, creating employment,

and creating awareness about rights, especially at the grassroots level, is outstanding. These organizations work

to promote peace and tolerance while respecting religious and cultural diversity. To counter the effects of climate

change, they take effective initiatives to increase environmental awareness as well as renewable energy and

disaster response. During calamities, they quickly conduct relief operations and stand by the affected people

through rehabilitation. The role of civil society organizations in education and skill development is noteworthy,

where they re-educate dropouts as well as empower the youth through technical training.

In the absence of civil society organizations, the socio-economic development of the country is severely

disrupted. Initiatives to raise public awareness and solve various social problems are absent. In particular, people

in remote areas remain outside the reach of government services and local problems become more difficult to

solve. Absence of civil society in disaster management, women's rights, child protection, and environmental

protection can stall a country's development. Increases corruption and social inequality. Therefore, if there is no

civil society organization, socio-economic development and building a justice-based society in Bangladesh

becomes a big challenge (UNDP, 2020).

Challenges of Civil Society Organizations in the Governance System in Bangladesh

Civil society organizations are not fully independent and impartial in the governance system of Bangladesh.

Because they face various challenges while working for the development and establishment of good governance

in the country. These challenges are mainly related to political, administrative, financial, and social structures.

Civil society organizations in Bangladesh are largely dependent on foreign funding. But the Foreign Donations

Control Act passed by the Bangladesh government in 2016 limited the activities of CSOs. This reduces their

independence and hinders fundraising. Besides, the registration process of civil society organizations is complex

and time-consuming. It takes a long time to get government approval. On the other hand, excessive surveillance

and administrative barriers by the government stifle the activities of the organizations. Activities of civil society

organizations are often subject to political influence. They are barred if they work against party interests.

Instances of restricting the activities of civil society organizations can be observed at various times by the former

Awami League government of Bangladesh. Because many times the government sees civil society activities as

a platform for their criticism, thereby putting pressure on them. Also, the lack of effective dialogue between

government and civil society organizations prevents them from being included in the decision- making process.

Bangladesh's lack of adequate domestic financing and dependence on foreign funding hamper civil society

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activities. The government's strict control over the use of foreign funds hampers their operations. Lack of

awareness among people and skeptical attitude towards the purpose of CSOs are major challenges for CSOs. On

the other hand, working on women's empowerment, human rights protection, or religious tolerance has to face

opposition from conservative sections of society. Sometimes the work of civil society organizations is not

properly accepted in the social and cultural context of Bangladesh. Activists of civil society organizations

engaged in human rights or anti-corruption activities are often subjected to threats, harassment and even physical

attacks. Their activities are monitored by government or other agencies, especially through digital means. As a

result, they were forced to retreat due to fear of a security crisis. Some civil society organizations fail to maintain

transparency in their activities, which reduces their credibility. Many organizations fail to carry out sustainability

activities due to lack of institutional capacity. Most of the time misinformation or negative propaganda is spread

about civil society activities. As a result, various controversies arise about them. Sometimes there is an attempt

to suppress critical statements or reports of organizations. Civil society organizations often face cyber threats

when using digital platforms. On the other hand, many organizations at the rural level are lagging behind in

using modern technology. Due to which they are not able to properly participate in the governance system (Nafis,

2016).

Ways to Engage Citizens and Civil Society in Good Governance of Bangladesh

Involving citizens and civil society organizations in good governance programs in Bangladesh is a complex and

multifaceted process. The main objective of good governance is to establish equality, accountability and effective

policies in the society. Various effective methods can be adopted for this purpose, which are explained through

practical examples. Awareness raising and ensuring information flow: Awareness raising and ensuring

information flow is very important. If the flow of information is ensured, people can be informed about the

activities of good governance. Right to Information Act should be implemented effectively. Making information

about government projects and budget available online and open to all citizens. For example, the ‘Information

for All’ project in Bangladesh is notable. Through this project, people are given access to government

information, which contributes to increasing their awareness. Besides, the use of social media and mass media

creates awareness among people about the importance of good governance. Also Public hearings or budget

meetings can be organized at the local level to create opportunities for public participation. Recently, Khulna

City Corporation has ensured citizens' participation in local budget formulation. It gave citizens an opportunity

to raise their problems directly and formulate plans for solutions. Capacity Building and Gathering Public

Opinion: Capacity building of civil society is also an important aspect. Various organizations such as

"Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB)" have carried out anti-corruption campaigns by building their

capacity. Through training programs and various researches, these organizations have played an effective role

in data collection and public awareness. Technology can be used to gather public opinion and intent. Creation

of Citizen Grievance System, where common people can report their grievances online or directly. Apart from

this, every year report on the progress of good governance program is published and distributed to the public.

Currently "Entry Inspector Mobile App" has been launched in Bangladesh, through which people can directly

submit their experiences or complaints. It makes the governance process more effective and participatory.

Building a Platform on Good Governance Partnerships: A platform can be built on good governance

partnerships. For example, various infrastructure development projects are being undertaken in Bangladesh using

the "Public-Private Partnership (PPP)" model. Through this model, public and private institutions are working

together, which has strengthened the partnership for good governance. And involvement of youth is very

important in establishing good governance. An organization called "Youth Alliance for Sustainable

Development" in Bangladesh has engaged young people for environmental protection and good governance.

Innovative thinking and technological skills of the youth can solve many problems of the society. Public

Participation in Policy and Legislation: Various advisory committees can be formed to ensure public

participation in policy and legislation. In this case, the opinions of farmers and civil society are taken in

formulating policies related to land development at the local level, which makes the policies practical and

acceptable. One of the ways to involve citizens in good governance activities is to share experiences of successful

models of good governance at the local and international level, inspiring others by citing examples of good

governance projects already completed. The success of women empowerment in rural areas has been highlighted

through the "Durbar" project in Bangladesh. It can be a source of inspiration for other regions (Islam, N. &

Mahjabeen, Z., 2003).

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FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION

This study has been able to explore how civil society contributes to the establishment and development of

democracy in Bangladesh. Civil society organizations have been intimately involved in the government system

of Bangladesh since its inception. As a result, civil society had to come forward with different issues in

Bangladesh at different times. Civil society promote the political role by engaging activities such as protection

of women's rights, prevention of corruption, eradication of poverty, establishment of transparency and

accountability, awareness raising etc. Based on my hypothesis of this research, the possible outcomes are

explored: The involvement of civil society in the governance system of Bangladesh is very important. Civil

society faces multidimensional problems in participating in the governance system of Bangladesh. To involve

citizens and civil society in Bangladesh's good governance programs, there is a need to increase awareness,

create opportunities for public participation and ensure accountability of government activities. Also, civil

society should be given the opportunity to participate in the policy making process of the country otherwise it is

not possible to establish good governance. Civil society can play the role in establishing good governance. But

the civil society of Bangladesh cannot work independently. Because it faces multi-dimensional challenges.

Collaborative efforts and activities between the government and civil society organizations and NGOs play an

effective role in establishing good governance in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has faced various challenges in the way of good governance. As the civil society creates awareness

among the people, protest against corruption and maladministration and help in establishing good governance.

Based on the findings of this research, the following policy and institutional measures can be adopted on an

urgent basis in an effort to overcome these pervasive challenges and thereby improve the governance situation

in Bangladesh in an effort to establish good governance.

1. Civil society should be non-partisan and non-political to establish good governance in the country.

2. Government should cooperate the functional activities.

3. Foreign dependence should be reduced, and the government should implement a policy of financing civil

society.

4. Civil Society shall organize events for the public so that they may be interested in participating in Civil

Society Organizations.

5. Bangladesh government should take necessary steps to improve both political and institutional

governance for sustainable development.

6. Raising awareness among people through civil society.

7. Organize training of citizens on good governance issues.

8. Ensuring active participation of civil society in anti-corruption activities.

9. Taking advice from civil society in policy-making.

10. Strengthening the role of civil society in the development of local government system.

11. Conduct civil society monitoring activities on human rights violations.

12. Providing support to civil society to protect media freedom.

13. Civil society monitoring of Election Commission activities.

14. Awareness program through civil society to protect environment.

15. Civil society cooperation to ensure good governance in education and health sectors.

16. Role of civil society in providing legal aid to protect people's rights.

17. Providing training to civil society in the use of information technology to prevent corruption.

18. Advocacy activities of civil society in protection of women and children rights.

19. Coordination of civil society and government in policy-making and implementation.

20. Civil society initiatives to involve the youth in establishing good governance.

The role of civil society in establishing good governance in Bangladesh is very important as it plays an

instrumental role in ensuring transparency, accountability and participatory governance at various levels of

society. This study analyzes the activities of civil society and the level of participation in their efforts to establish

good governance. The objective of the study was to determine the role of civil society, analyze the impact of

their activities and find ways of their involvement in the development of good governance. Studies have shown

that active participation of civil society is essential for establishing good governance. However, in the current

context, the activities of civil society in Bangladesh are gradually decreasing. Political influence and

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administrative complexity on the one hand, lack of awareness and institutional weakness on the other hand have

limited the activities of civil society. It is disrupting the process of establishing good governance and standing

in the way of social progress. The findings of the study show that civil society can play an effective role through

NGO-based activities in implementing the concept of good governance. In particular, their involvement in

sectors such as poverty alleviation, education, health care, and environmental protection can assist governments.

But this requires an effective partnership between the state and civil society. Establishing good governance in

Bangladesh requires an inclusive framework, where civil society, the government and the general public work

together. To achieve this the state needs to create a supportive environment, where civil society can conduct its

activities freely. In addition, policy formulation and implementation is needed to raise awareness among people

and empower civil society. Therefore, the essence of the study is that the role of civil society in establishing

good governance is essential, and by ensuring their active participation, it is possible to build a well-governed

and progressive Bangladesh. In this regard, joint efforts of government, civil society and people are essential,

which will help ensure transparency, justice and sustainable development in the society.

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