Current Conditions: Democracy & Governance

Democratic Institutions in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a parliamentary democracy, with broad powers exercised by the Prime Minister. Many formal democratic institutions exist, such as parliament, an active opposition, a free print media and the judiciary. Competitive elections take place, and free speech is practiced. However, these institutions and systems often function with limited transparency, accountability and openness to public input. Consensus among the national leadership about policy-making process is absent.

The country experienced upheavals in the first 20 years of nationhood after the 1971 war of liberation. In 1990, a quasi-military regime came to an end, and a caretaker government was established. In early 1991, national elections were held. Power has been transferred twice between elected governments under a normal, democratic process. The most recent transfer took place after the 2001 parliamentary elections. Most international observers deemed them generally free and fair.

Human Rights Remain a Concern
Human rights issues have figured prominently in the speeches of government leaders and in the Bangladesh press. There remains, however, a large gap between rhetoric and practice. Bangladesh has one of the highest rates of violence against women in the world. Trafficking of women and children for prostitution, forced labor, begging and other purposes is increasingly recognized as a significant problem. Cases of abuse of police are occasionally cited in the media. Those responsible for torture or unlawful deaths are rarely convicted and punished.

In a democratic society, the rights and responsibilities related to governance are not exclusively the domain of the government. They extend to all citizens. The many human rights organizations operating in Bangladesh are a prime example of citizen-initiated efforts to influence public policies.