The impact of decentralisation on development, with special reference to the experience of Bangladesh since 1982

Kalam, AKMA

Abstract

Many Third World countries appear to have
suffered in the past from over-centralised development
efforts. More recently, many countries have attempted
to reverse these trends through a policy of
decentralisation. The hope has been that this would
overcome institutional weaknesses, enable development
to be administered at the local level, and bring
greater popular participation. Democratic structures
have been prescribed as means of ensuring greater
involvement in development, particularly for the rural
poor. They should also make local administration more
accountable to the people.
Since 1982, Bangladesh has favoured
decentralisation, devolving increased power and
authority to a democratic local government unit, the
"Upazila Administration". The policy has shifted power
and authority in local matters, from the traditional
district administration, to the lower levels.
In evaluating the impact of decentralisation on
development, this thesis concludes that hitherto
decentralisation in Bangladesh has not been altogether effective. It has not been able for example to iiiiprove
the delivery of basic needs to the rural people,
particularly to those who live under extreme poverty.
There are reasons to believe, however, that given the
oppotunity to continue democratic local institutions
over a longer period, and following the constitutional
route, decentralisation will gradually bring about
better results.

Citation

Kalam, A. The impact of decentralisation on development, with special reference to the experience of Bangladesh since 1982. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Sep 22, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 22, 2011
• Award Date: Jan 1, 1990