The Dynamics of Disempowerment: A Qualitative Study of Local Environmental Governance in Rural Bangladesh

Munira Jahan and Md. Zaki Faisal
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Munira Jahan: Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Jagannath University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Md. Zaki Faisal: Programme Officer, Aspire to Innovate (a2i) Programme, ICT Division, Dhaka, Bangladesh

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 9, 8655-8667

Abstract: Bangladesh is in the list of most environmentally vulnerable countries in the world. The country is under rigorous threats of climate change and environment degradation that has a direct adverse effect on its way to sustainable development. This qualitative analysis evaluates how the Union Parishad (UP) which is the basic form of a local government, changes the structure of environmental governance in rural environments. The primary objective is to explore the on-the-ground realities, perceptions, and systemic challenges that constrain the UP's effectiveness as a key factor in environmental management. This study finds, using a thematic analysis of qualitative data gathered in discussions with key informants and focus groups interviews, a critical gap between national policy and local action. The results reveal a profound disconnect: while communities express high concern over environmental issues, they are largely dissatisfied with and disengaged from the UP's efforts. The study concludes that the UP's capacity is undermined by a triad of crippling issues: severe financial resource shortages, a public trust deficit stemming from corruption, and significant political interference. To address this, the article recommends a paradigm shift towards a governance model that is genuinely decentralized, adequately resourced, highly accountable, and fundamentally participatory to secure Bangladesh's environmental and human future.

Date: 2025
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