Decentralisation without decentralisation: Bangladesh's failed attempt to transfer power from the central government to local governments. Issue 3 (3rd July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Panday, Pranab
• Is Part Of: Asia Pacific journal of public administration. Volume 39:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 177
• Page End: 188
• Publication Date: 2017-07-03
• Subjects: decentralisation -- power and responsibility -- local governments -- central government control -- Bangladesh; Public administration -- Pacific Area -- Periodicals; Public administration -- Periodicals; Pacific Area -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 351
• DOI: 10.1080/23276665.2017.1363940
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2327-6665

Abstract

Abstract : This article addresses decentralising initiatives in Bangladesh with reference, first, to significant literature on decentralisation in the context of development and, thereafter, to a particular reform involving the introduction of the Upazila Parishad (UZP) as a potentially important tier of local government. While the reform heralded a possible expansion of local participation and the taking of responsive local action, the functioning of the UZP has not lived up to the promises and expectations. A lack of a proper transfer of power and responsibility to the elected representatives, the existence of centrally-controlled administration and planning, and the extensive interference of politicians and bureaucrats has limited considerably the capacity of the UZP to operate effectively. Only through a reduction of central control and a recasting of local action will it be able to achieve its significant goals and objectives as a vital form of local government and governance.