SO 11:
More Effective and Responsive Democratic Institutions and Practices

SO 12:
Expanded Economic Opportunities through Equitable Economic Growth

SO 13:
Better Educated and Healthier Population

SO 14:
Improved Food Security and Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness and Relief

Program Summary

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) makes a difference in Bangladesh through our commitment to improving the lives of the poor. Our programs assist Bangladeshi organizations and communities in addressing their needs in the areas of health and family planning, income generation, agriculture and food security, disaster management, democracy and human rights, and education. Our principal partners are non-governmental organizations (NGOs). We also work closely with the Government of Bangladesh and other donors.

History of Commitment to the People of Bangladesh
Since 1971, USAID has provided over $5 billion in development assistance. Food aid accounts for over half of that amount (for summary of historical assistance, click here [PDF]). With USAID assistance, Bangladesh has seen significant improvements in living conditions for its people. Today, Bangladeshis have better access to health care and electricity, increased agricultural productivity and better nutrition. USAID also works with communities in disaster preparedness and to improve their ability to manage emergency food supplies.

In 2007, USAID provided more than $78 million in assistance to Bangladesh. USAID also played a significant role in flood relief efforts in 2004, contributing to $1.6 million for humanitarian aid, as well as redirecting nearly 10,000 metric tons of rice, valued at $6.6 million, to the flood-affected Bangladeshis.

Promoting Democratic Institutions and Practices
USAID supports national policies and democratic institutions to be more transparent and responsive to citizen input. With USAID assistance, Bangladeshi NGOs are helping ensure credible and transparent elections and the promotion of human rights. This includes work to prevent human trafficking, protect labor rights of workers and further respect, tolerance, and understanding of human rights. USAID also promotes citizen participation in local government. This includes cooperation between local government systems and citizen co-management groups to improve biodiversity and conservation of natural resources.

Expanding Economic Opportunities for the Poor
USAID seeks to increase jobs and income for the poor in targeted areas with a focus on equity. Activities will promote greater participation of women and youth as business leaders, develop workforce skills and strengthen public-private sector alliances. USAID also assists Bangladesh in expanding access to global markets by supporting key sectors to improve the quality of products and services.

A Healthier and Better Educated Population
USAID works with NGOs and the Government of Bangladesh to improve and expand health care for the poor. USAID-supported NGO health clinics provide high quality family planning and basic health services to more than 26 million patients each year. Clinics also provide prenatal and postnatal care for mothers and their newborns, as well as offer safe delivery by trained birth attendants. USAID also educates Bangladeshis about reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention with a focus on at-risk populations. The program also works to ensure the availability of contraceptive methods at more than 200,000 sales outlets throughout the country.

USAID's early childhood education program prepares preschool age boys and girls to succeed in primary school by improving their reading and math skills. USAID-funded Sesame Street television program, Sisimpur, is one of the most popular children's shows in Bangladesh. Studies indicate that children who watch Sisimpur show remarkable improvements in vocabulary, cultural knowledge and counting skills.

Improved Food Security and Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness and Relief
USAID works to improve food security in the poorest and most disaster-prone areas in rural Bangladesh. Food-for-work programs allow poor people to work for food and wages by building roads and cyclone shelters to help communities prepare for disasters. In recent years, improved early warning and response systems have significantly lessened the loss of life during times of disaster. Contingency plans ensure that over 25 million people have access to relief supplies within 72 hours of a disaster. USAID also improves family nutrition by teaching home gardening techniques and working with poor farmers to diversify their crops.

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