Abstract:
Bangladesh has maintained an impressive track record on growth and development, and
reached the lower middle income country. But the democratic consolidation is yet a burning
question after the passing of four decades of independence. She is eulogized for its CSOs over
the world, especially for the participation in socio-economic arena. But its participation in the
political sphere is not vigilant for the acceleration of democratic consolidation. What are the
inner and outer factors of CSOs for deterring peoples’ participation in the political arena? The
present study tries to explore the role of social capital of CSOs and its influence on the
democratic consolidation in Bangladesh. For investigation into CSOs, the study has followed the
mix method approach where qualitative and quantitative data have been used to analyze the
issues. The study explored the fact that social capital of CSOs among the members is satisfactory
in terms of reciprocity, trust and network. But their collective action and involvement in
common activities for the betterment of society are insignificant, which does not reflect
vigorously on the social cohesion. Participation for establishing deliberative democracy in the
functions of Union Parishad is negligible. Nevertheless the respondents have positive intention
to participate in the collective actions and functions of the Union Parishad. The nexus between
local and central political leaders makes a partyarchy which has shrunk the channel of
participation. In addition, leaning to commercial venture, political bifurcation and low civic
engagement of CSOs have intensified the problem. Indeed, the CSOs could not exert the
demands and expectation of people in the political system at the expected level. To overcome
the inertia of CSOs and its constraints of participation, the change is needed at both individual
and institutional levels. The connectedness to friends, fellows, neighbors and social
organizations will help to create a democratic attitude and social cohesion among the people.
Institutional reform is needed, but its institutionalization depends on peoples’ democratic
participation.
Description:
This thesis is Submitted to the Institute of Bangladesh Studies (IBS), University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh for The Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
