Jannatul Ferdous

This book examines the dynamic between citizens’ trust and good governance using the case study of Bangladesh. The chapters provide in-depth insights into the challenges and opportunities unique to local governance in Bangladesh. Through a comprehensive exploration, the book scrutinizes the performance evaluation of City Corporations, dissecting their role in ensuring quality service delivery within Local Government Institutions (LGIs). The focal point of this inquiry lies in the factors that shape and impact citizens’ trust in two specific entities: the Cumilla City Corporation and the Chattogram City Corporation. Ultimately, the book underscores the necessity for a revamped organizational framework within City Corporations, advocating for a modernized structure, streamlined chain of command, and a conducive work environment. By melding insights into trust, governance, and structural reform, the book sheds light on the pivotal relationship between empowered citizens, well-functioning LGIs, and the imperative of effective urban management. A valuable and significant contribution to the subject of LGIs and their role in fostering citizens’ trust, this book will be of interest to researchers in the fields of political science, public administration, governance studies, development studies, and urban studies, as well as local government administration and civic engagement and governance.

By integrating governance theory with real-world service delivery practices in South Asia, this book explores the vital intersection of governance and public service delivery, particularly within the complex socio-political landscape of South Asia. The book bridges theory and practice to reveal how good governance principles such as decentralization, accountability, citizen participation, and digital innovation can drive more equitable and efficient service provision. Chapters focus on the evolving shift from traditional government to participatory governance, examining the roles of public–private partnerships, e-governance, and inclusive policy design in transforming service delivery. Providing a regionally grounded perspective by drawing from comparative regional analysis, rather than country-specific diagnostics, the book ensures broader relevance while remaining rooted in the realities of rapidly developing South Asian nations. A timely contribution in the era of digital transformation and growing demands for transparent, accountable institutions, this book will be of interest to academics working in the fields of South Asian Politics, international relations, governance, decentralization, and participatory public administration.

While Bangladesh has progressed in reducing poverty, this book acknowledges challenges and regional disparities across four unions and different districts, which were selected based on specific criteria to ensure diversity.

This book examines the background and impact of e-government in rural Bangladesh. Focusing on the Union Digital Centers (UDCs), established by the Union Parishad, this book analyzes how such centers influence rural communities. The UDCs were created to afford electronic access to a wide range of public and private services, thereby transforming the delivery of public services. This study examines easy access to services, reduced waiting time, and the elimination of bureaucratic barriers. Data based on interviews, case studies, and focus groups show the UDCs' effect on service delivery, efficiency, governance, and citizen satisfaction and the challenges these sectors face. This book discusses how technology has eased municipal governance by removing middlemen and, in essence, making citizens and officials happier. It concludes with recommendations using a gender and stakeholder perspective approach and shows how governance and service delivery could be improved to enable a full examination of UDCs' social and economic impacts on rural communities. This book will be of interest to researchers in the fields of public administration, public policy, development studies, good governance and leadership, and local government, especially in the context of South Asia.

This book investigates the origins, current state, and fundamental value of social safety nets in developing countries, as well as their effectiveness in these settings. Social safety net programs (SSNPs) are critical because they keep those who are already vulnerable from falling deeper into poverty. Analysing how social safety nets benefit the most disadvantaged and marginalized members of society by allowing those in need to become financially stable, more resilient, and open up more opportunities for themselves, this book shows that social safety nets (SSNs) are a collection of social services designed to protect people from the effects of economic and emotional hardship. Showing that the purpose of the safety net is not to provide permanent financial security, but rather to provide temporary financial security during periodic shocks and how this applies in South Asia and also in parts of Africa, this book will be of interest to all scholars and students of social policy, sociology, social work, and Global South politics more generally.

This book delves into the multifaceted interplay between gender, migration, and development. It challenges conventional theories by sharing the unique experiences of migrants, particularly women, and their profound impact on development in the global South. It contributes significantly to the theory of intersectionality, which illuminates how various forms of oppression and privilege intertwine to shape individuals' experiences. It ventures beyond traditional boundaries, recognizing migration and development as transnational processes that transcend singular actors and spaces. It highlights the interconnectedness of people, cultures, and economies across national borders, unraveling the complex tapestry of migration and development. It provides invaluable feminist perspectives, illuminating pathways toward inclusivity and equity in development. Through its nuanced analysis, this book paves the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and empowering future for individuals and communities. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars seeking to promote social justice and gender equality in migration and development contexts.

Anatomy of Local Government in Bangladesh delves deep into the heart of governance in this vibrant nation, exploring its local government institutions' intricacies, challenges, and evolution. As a foundational layer of governmental hierarchy, these Local Government Institutions (LGIs) are a vital component of field administration, as enshrined in the country's constitution. With an unwavering commitment to a qualitative approach, this comprehensive study takes readers on a journey through the very essence of local government in Bangladesh, focusing on its structure, functions, and the hurdles it confronts. Leveraging an array of secondary data sources, the book unveils the inner workings of LGIs, painting a clear picture of their historical development, present organization, and financial dynamics. The chapters in this book lay bare the patron-client relationship between national and local governments, urging a shift towards greater autonomy and genuine representation of local citizens' needs. The path to democracy, decentralization, and enhanced local administration is illuminated, with insights drawn from foreign donors and citizen activism. This compelling book is a scholarly exploration and a guide for policymakers and activists, offering valuable lessons and suggestions for the future.

This book examines the dynamic between citizens’ trust and good governance using the case study of Bangladesh. The chapters provide in-depth insights into the challenges and opportunities unique to local governance in Bangladesh. Through a comprehensive exploration, the book scrutinizes the performance evaluation of City Corporations, dissecting their role in ensuring quality service delivery within Local Government Institutions (LGIs). The focal point of this inquiry lies in the factors that shape and impact citizens’ trust in two specific entities: the Cumilla City Corporation and the Chattogram City Corporation. Ultimately, the book underscores the necessity for a revamped organizational framework within City Corporations, advocating for a modernized structure, streamlined chain of command, and a conducive work environment. By melding insights into trust, governance, and structural reform, the book sheds light on the pivotal relationship between empowered citizens, well-functioning LGIs, and the imperative of effective urban management. A valuable and significant contribution to the subject of LGIs and their role in fostering citizens’ trust, this book will be of interest to researchers in the fields of political science, public administration, governance studies, development studies, and urban studies, as well as local government administration and civic engagement and governance.