Democracy and Development: Experience of Democracy and

Development in Bangladesh

Introduction:

Democracy and development are often viewed as two sides of the same coin, interwoven in
shaping a nation’s progress. While democracy ensures the inclusion of people’s voices in
governance, development focuses on improving the quality of life through economic growth,
education, healthcare, and social equity. Together, they form the cornerstone of a stable,
inclusive, and prosperous society. This paper examines the intricate relationship between
democracy and development, evaluates the current state of democracy in Bangladesh, and
provides recommendations to strengthen both processes.

In the Bangladeshi context, the relationship between democracy and development is particularly
significant. Emerging from the devastating Liberation War of 1971, the country adopted
democracy as a core principle of governance through its Constitution of 1972. This framework
aimed to ensure representation, justice, and equitable development. Despite facing periods of
political upheaval, military rule, and governance challenges, Bangladesh has demonstrated
resilience in pursuing democratic values and achieving substantial socio-economic progress.

The country’s democratic journey is intertwined with its development trajectory. Bangladesh has
transitioned from being one of the world’s poorest nations to a lower-middle-income country
with notable achievements in poverty reduction, women’s empowerment, and public health.
Programs like Vision 2041 aim to further elevate the nation’s socio-economic standing.
However, questions remain about the depth and inclusivity of its democratic practices,
particularly in the face of electoral disputes, corruption, and human rights concerns.

This analysis seeks to unpack these dynamics, shedding light on how democracy and
development interact in Bangladesh and how their synergy can be enhanced to build a more
equitable and prosperous future.

Defining Democracy and Development:

Democracy:

Democracy is a system of governance where power is vested in the hands of the people, typically
exercised through elected representatives. According to political theorist Robert Dahl,
democracy is characterized by effective participation, voting equality, enlightened
understanding, control of the agenda, and inclusiveness. Abraham Lincoln famously defined it as
“Government of the people, by the people, for the people,” encapsulating its core ethos.
Modern democracy is more than just periodic elections; it includes the principles of
accountability, transparency, and protection of individual freedoms. Examples of this are visible
in countries like Norway and Canada, where robust democratic practices ensure equitable policy
formulation and execution.

Key features include:

 Free and fair elections.

 Majority rule with respect for minority rights.
 Accountability and transparency in governance.
 Equal participation of citizens in political decision-making.

In Bangladesh, democracy was enshrined in its Constitution of 1972, which guaranteed

fundamental rights and parliamentary governance. Despite challenges, democratic institutions
like elections and an active media continue to play a vital role in governance.

Development:

Development refers to the comprehensive improvement of societal well-being, encompassing

economic, social, and political progress. Economist Amartya Sen defines development as “a
process of expanding the real freedoms that people enjoy,” emphasizing the importance of
removing barriers such as poverty, illiteracy, and lack of healthcare.

Development goes beyond economic growth, measured by metrics like GDP, to include social
indicators such as the Human Development Index (HDI), which evaluates life expectancy,
education, and income levels. Successful development initiatives are evident in countries like
South Korea, which transitioned from an agrarian economy to a technology-driven powerhouse
through strategic investments in education and infrastructure.

Key dimensions include:

 Economic Development: Increased income levels, industrialization, and improved

economic stability.
 Social Development: Access to education, healthcare, and reduction of inequalities.
 Political Development: Democratic governance, rule of law, and institutional strength.
 Sustainable Development: Meeting present needs without compromising future
generations' ability to meet theirs.

In the Bangladeshi context, development achievements include reducing poverty rates from
44.2% in 1991 to 20.5% in 2019 and achieving self-sufficiency in food production. Programs
like the Rural Electrification Board and Grameen Bank’s microfinance initiatives have
transformed lives in rural areas.
Contemporary Examples:

 Global Examples: Countries like Sweden combine democratic governance with

advanced human development metrics, proving that participatory governance can
complement equitable growth.
 Bangladeshi Context: Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts, such as Vision 2041, aim to
achieve developed nation status. Democratic pressures have ensured greater focus on
social welfare schemes like the Digital Bangladesh initiative, promoting education and
connectivity.

Relation Between Democracy and Development:

The relationship between democracy and development is both complex and multifaceted.
Scholars and policymakers have long debated how democracy influences development and vice
versa. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are several key aspects of the relationship
between these two concepts. Below are some of the main points of connection:

Democracy Promotes Economic Development

Democracy, characterized by free and fair elections, political participation, and protection of
individual rights, can foster a conducive environment for economic development. Democratic
governments are typically more accountable to their citizens, leading them to adopt policies that
promote sustainable growth, reduce poverty, and invest in public goods such as education and
healthcare.

Why it works:

 Democracies often encourage the establishment of legal frameworks that protect property
rights, foster entrepreneurship, and facilitate market economies.
 Democratically elected governments are more likely to respond to the needs of the public
and invest in infrastructure, human capital, and social welfare, which are essential for
development.

Example in Bangladesh:

Over the years, Bangladesh has seen significant economic growth under democratic rule,
particularly in the textiles and garment sectors. Policies promoting microfinance and rural
development programs have helped reduce poverty, with initiatives such as Grameen Bank
playing a key role in empowering the poor, especially women.
Development Supports Democracy

Economic development can strengthen democracy by creating a more informed and active
citizenry. When people experience improvements in their living standards, education, and
healthcare, they are more likely to engage in the political process and demand greater
accountability and transparency from their governments.

Why it works:

 Economic development leads to an expanded middle class, which can create a demand
for better governance and more democratic rights.
 Development provides people with the tools and opportunities to voice their concerns and
participate in the political process.

Example in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh’s growing economy has led to increased literacy rates, especially among women,
which has, in turn, led to greater political participation. For example, the rise in female
entrepreneurship and involvement in local governance has been a positive development linked to
the country's economic growth.

Democracy Ensures Political Stability and Social Cohesion

While economic growth is crucial, its benefits can be undermined if political instability,
corruption, and inequality are widespread. Democracies tend to provide mechanisms for peaceful
conflict resolution, and regular elections allow citizens to express their dissatisfaction through
voting, which can reduce the likelihood of violent unrest or authoritarian rule.

Why it works:

 In democracies, political power is distributed, which can prevent the concentration of

power in the hands of a few, reducing the risk of authoritarianism.
 Mechanisms like checks and balances, freedom of speech, and a free press allow citizens
to hold governments accountable, which can prevent the erosion of political stability and
ensure social cohesion.

Example in Bangladesh:

While Bangladesh has faced political instability at times, its democratic structure has allowed for
peaceful transitions of power. Regular elections have provided citizens with a means to express
their political will, and civil society organizations have played a role in holding the government
accountable.
Democracy Encourages Inclusive Development

One of the hallmarks of democracy is that it provides equal political rights to all citizens,
regardless of their socio-economic status. This inclusiveness extends to development policies,
ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared widely across society, including the
most marginalized and vulnerable groups.

Why it works:

 Democratically elected governments are typically more attuned to the needs of different
groups in society, particularly minority and marginalized communities.
 Electoral competition and public pressure can lead to more equitable policies that address
income inequality and promote social welfare.

Example in Bangladesh:

The Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) Program and initiatives like the Social Safety
Nets(SSN) aim to provide financial assistance to marginalized groups in Bangladesh, helping to
ensure that development reaches the poorest sectors of society. The government’s commitment
to women’s empowerment and programs like Grameen Bank have also contributed to more
inclusive development.

Democracy and development share a symbiotic relationship:

 Participation and Accountability: Democracy encourages citizen participation in

governance, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of resources, which is
essential for development. For example, in Bangladesh, initiatives like participatory
budgeting in some municipalities have allowed citizens to voice their priorities, leading
to more effective allocation of resources.
 Rule of Law: Democratic systems uphold the rule of law, creating a stable environment
for economic growth and development. Bangladesh’s adherence to constitutional
provisions for judicial independence, although imperfect, has played a role in upholding
economic contracts and fostering business confidence.
 Human Rights and Social Justice: Democracy fosters respect for human rights and
equity, which are critical for inclusive development. For instance, Bangladesh’s strides in
women’s empowerment, such as the widespread participation of women in the garment
industry, are linked to democratic efforts to ensure gender equality.
 Policy Formulation: A democratic system allows for diverse opinions in policymaking,
enabling the creation of balanced and people-centric development strategies. Policies like
Vision 2041, aimed at transforming Bangladesh into a developed nation, have been
shaped through consultations with various stakeholders.
Challenges in the Relationship

However, the relationship between democracy and development is not always linear. Weak
democratic institutions and corruption can hinder development, while economic inequality can
undermine democratic processes.

Political Instability: Frequent political unrest in Bangladesh, such as hartals (strikes), has
disrupted economic activities, highlighting how weak democratic practices can stall
development.

Corruption and Mismanagement: Corruption in public administration dilutes the effectiveness

of development programs. For example, irregularities in projects like the Padma Bridge initially
delayed its progress, though it eventually became a success story.

Economic Inequality: Rapid economic growth in Bangladesh has not been evenly distributed,
creating disparities that can undermine democratic participation. Urban-rural divides in access to
education and healthcare exemplify this challenge.

Positive Synergies:

Despite these challenges, democracy has facilitated several developmental achievements in

Bangladesh:

1. Social Safety Nets: Democratic governance has led to the introduction of programs like
the Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) initiative, aimed at reducing poverty and
empowering marginalized women.
2. Educational Reforms: Policies to promote universal primary education, driven by
democratic accountability, have significantly increased literacy rates in Bangladesh.
3. Infrastructure Development: Democratic pressures have ensured prioritization of major
infrastructure projects, such as bridges and highways, which contribute to economic
growth and regional connectivity.

In summary, while democracy and development face hurdles in their interplay, they have also
fostered mutual growth in Bangladesh. Strengthening democratic institutions and addressing
governance challenges can further enhance this relationship.

Does Democracy Exist in Bangladesh?

The democratic journey of Bangladesh has been a mix of successes and challenges since its
independence in 1971. Despite adopting a parliamentary democracy, the country has faced
periods of political instability, military rule, and challenges in ensuring democratic principles.
These factors have shaped the current state of democracy in Bangladesh.
Achievements:

 Electoral Democracy: Bangladesh holds regular elections for national and local
governments, providing a platform for public participation. Elections, such as the 2008
general elections, showcased the country’s commitment to democracy, with high voter
turnout and competitive participation.
 Civil Society and Media: An active civil society and vibrant media contribute to
political awareness and accountability. Investigative journalism has exposed significant
corruption cases, such as those involving high-profile infrastructure projects.
 Economic Growth: Despite democratic challenges, Bangladesh has achieved remarkable
economic growth, becoming a lower-middle-income country. The garment industry,
which employs millions, and remittances from expatriate workers are key drivers of this
growth, demonstrating the alignment of development goals with democratic governance.

Challenges:

 Electoral Integrity: Allegations of vote rigging, intimidation of opposition parties, and

manipulation of electoral rolls often undermine the credibility of elections. For example,
the 2018 general elections faced criticism for irregularities, such as voter suppression and
lack of transparency.

 Authoritarian Tendencies: Concentration of power in the executive branch often

sidelines other democratic institutions. Recent amendments to laws, such as the Digital
Security Act, have raised concerns about freedom of expression and suppression of
dissent.

 Corruption and Governance Issues: Corruption remains a pervasive challenge. Reports

from organizations like Transparency International consistently rank Bangladesh poorly
in terms of corruption perception. High-profile scandals, such as embezzlement in state-
owned banks, erode public trust.

 Human Rights Violations: Political violence, enforced disappearances, and restrictions

on press freedom are frequent. For example, incidents such as the attacks on journalists
covering political protests highlight the risks to democratic norms.

 Lack of Inclusivity: Marginalized groups, including ethnic minorities and women, often
have limited representation in political decision-making. This imbalance impedes the
broader democratic objective of equality.
Despite these challenges, Bangladesh demonstrates resilience through its active civil society,
grassroots movements, and commitment to economic development. However, the path to a
mature democracy requires addressing these systemic issues.

Recommendations for Strengthening Democracy and Promoting Development

in Bangladesh:

 Enhance Electoral Transparency and Integrity

To strengthen democracy, it is crucial to ensure free and fair elections. This involves the
removal of electoral fraud, manipulation, and vote-buying, which undermine the
democratic process. Implementing stronger mechanisms for monitoring elections, such as
independent electoral commissions and international observers, can help maintain
integrity.

Example in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has faced challenges with electoral transparency, such as the 2014 and 2018
general elections, where opposition parties alleged vote-rigging and suppression of
voters. Strengthening the Election Commission and involving international election
monitors could help ensure more transparent elections. Additionally, introducing
biometric voter registration and electronic voting systems could reduce instances of voter
fraud and improve public confidence in the electoral process.

 Strengthen Accountability and Anti-Corruption Mechanisms

Accountability is essential for both democratic consolidation and sustainable

development. Establishing independent anti-corruption agencies, enforcing stricter
penalties for corrupt practices, and promoting transparency in government contracts and
projects are key measures for reducing corruption.

Example in Bangladesh:

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Bangladesh plays a pivotal role in tackling

corruption, but it faces criticism for being ineffective due to political interference.
Strengthening the ACC’s independence by providing it with greater autonomy and
ensuring that political leaders are held accountable for their actions is essential.
Bangladesh should also adopt international best practices in transparency, such as the
Open Government Partnership (OGP), to ensure that government spending and
procurement are transparent to the public.
 Promote Inclusive Economic Growth and Poverty Alleviation

Sustainable development requires policies that ensure economic growth is inclusive,

benefiting all segments of society, especially marginalized communities. Policies should
focus on creating jobs, improving education, and ensuring social safety nets for the
poorest populations.

Example in Bangladesh:

The government’s efforts through initiatives like the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF)
Program and the Padma Bridge Project have made a positive impact on poverty
alleviation. However, more can be done by focusing on rural development, education
reforms, and skill development programs for youth. By investing in sectors such as
agriculture, which employs a large portion of the population, and expanding microfinance
programs, Bangladesh can reduce inequality and boost sustainable development.

 Empower Civil Society and Encourage Public Participation

Democracy thrives when citizens are active participants in decision-making processes.

Civil society organizations (CSOs) and grassroots movements should be empowered to
engage in policy dialogues and hold governments accountable.

Example in Bangladesh:

The rise of NGOs like BRAC and Grameen Bank has played a significant role in
empowering communities and providing services to the marginalized. However, to
further enhance public participation, the government should promote platforms for open
dialogue between policymakers and the public, especially in local governance.
Encouraging more women and youth to participate in politics and civil society activities
would also promote a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

 Strengthen Rule of Law and Judicial Independence

For democracy to function effectively, the rule of law must be upheld, and an
independent judiciary is essential to ensure justice and fairness. Judicial reforms that
enhance the speed and efficiency of the courts can help in addressing corruption and
injustice in a timely manner.

Example in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has made progress in judicial reforms, but challenges remain in terms of
judicial independence, delays in case resolution, and political influence. Strengthening
 the independence of the judiciary, ensuring timely delivery of justice, and increasing
transparency in court proceedings would help restore public faith in the legal system.
Additionally, improving access to legal aid and expanding legal literacy programs could
empower ordinary citizens to exercise their rights effectively.

 Promote Education and Social Awareness for Democratic Values

Democracy requires an informed and engaged citizenry. Investing in education at all
levels, along with promoting democratic values and human rights, is vital for the
development of an active, responsible electorate.

Example in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has made notable progress in expanding access to education, with increasing
literacy rates, especially among women. However, there is still a need for curriculum
reforms that focus on critical thinking, civic education, and democratic values.
Introducing courses on governance, human rights, and the importance of democracy at
the primary and secondary education levels would foster a generation of citizens who are
more aware of their rights and responsibilities.

 Foster Economic Diversification and Technological Innovation

To sustain long-term development, a country must move beyond dependency on a few

key sectors and diversify its economy. Innovation, particularly in technology and
industry, can help create new job opportunities and reduce vulnerabilities to economic
shocks.

Example in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has made strides in the garment industry, but over-reliance on this sector
poses risks. The government should focus on diversifying into sectors such as
information technology, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. Initiatives like the
Digital Bangladesh vision can be expanded to promote technological innovation, improve
infrastructure, and create new industries. Encouraging entrepreneurship, particularly
among women and youth, can provide additional avenues for economic growth and
development.

 Ensure Sustainable Environmental Practices

Development should not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Policies to

 promote sustainable practices, such as renewable energy, environmental conservation,
and climate change adaptation, are essential for long-term development.

Example in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, with frequent
floods, cyclones, and rising sea levels. To mitigate these challenges, the government
should invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and renewable energy sources such as
solar power. Bangladesh has already made strides in solar energy, with rural households
benefiting from solar panels. Expanding such initiatives and focusing on sustainable
agricultural practices can protect the environment while ensuring continued economic
growth.

These recommendations, when implemented, can lead to a more robust democracy and
sustainable development in Bangladesh, contributing to a more prosperous and inclusive society.

Conclusion:

The interplay between democracy and development is pivotal for the progress of any nation,
including Bangladesh. While the country has achieved notable economic and social milestones,
the challenges to its democratic framework pose significant obstacles to sustainable
development. The experiences of Bangladesh demonstrate that democracy, despite its
imperfections, has provided a foundation for addressing socio-economic issues and promoting
public welfare.

However, the path forward requires critical reforms. Electoral processes must be strengthened to
restore public trust and ensure the inclusion of diverse voices. Addressing corruption and
promoting transparency in governance are imperative for equitable resource distribution and
policy implementation. Additionally, enhancing civil liberties and fostering inclusivity can
ensure that democracy truly serves the needs of all citizens.

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads where deepening its democratic practices can unlock further
developmental opportunities. By addressing existing challenges and fostering a more
participatory and accountable governance system, the country can build a resilient democracy
that not only drives economic growth but also ensures social justice and equity for all its citizens.
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