[🇧🇩] Reforms carried out by the interim/future Govts.

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Reimagining reform: civic engagement

THE July uprising of 2024 marked a pivotal turning point in our nation’s history, a moment when people collectively voiced their frustrations against systemic inequalities, unresponsive governance, and widespread corruption. The events of that revolutionary monsoon were not just an eruption of...

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Reimagining reform: civic engagement
Mohammad Jashim Uddin 01 December, 2024, 00:00

Protesters hold celebrations at Shahbagh in Dhaka on August 5 after the fall of the Awami League government. | Agence France-Presse/Munir uz Zaman

THE July uprising of 2024 marked a pivotal turning point in our nation’s history, a moment when people collectively voiced their frustrations against systemic inequalities, unresponsive governance, and widespread corruption. The events of that revolutionary monsoon were not just an eruption of anger but a call for meaningful change and societal reform. At its core, the uprising highlighted the power of civic engagement — individuals and communities coming together to demand accountability, propose solutions, and reshape the social contract. Now, as the dust settles, the real work begins — reimagining reform by channelling the energy of civic engagement into sustainable, transformative change.

Civic engagement is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. It encompasses actions that enable citizens to contribute to the betterment of their communities, whether through grassroots activism, public dialogue, policy advocacy, or participating in electoral processes. The July uprising was a testament to the power of collective civic action, demonstrating how ordinary people can challenge the status quo and push for systemic reform. But for true transformation, this engagement must evolve from protest to participation, ensuring that citizens remain actively involved in shaping the policies and structures that govern their lives.

In the wake of the uprising, people’s expectations for reform are clear: they demand transparency, justice, and inclusivity. The movement has underscored the need for governance that reflects the will of the people and prioritises their needs over entrenched interests. This involves addressing the following critical areas:

Trust in institutions: Public trust in governmental and social institutions has eroded over the years due to corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability. Civic engagement can play a key role in rebuilding this trust. Citizen-led watchdog groups, participatory budgeting, and open data initiatives can ensure that institutions operate transparently and responsibly.

Social equity and inclusion: The July uprising shone a spotlight on the marginalisation of vulnerable groups. Reform must prioritise inclusivity, addressing disparities in education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Civic movements can amplify the voices of under-represented communities, advocating for policies that promote social equity.

Youth and education as catalysts for change: The energy and determination of the youth were instrumental in the uprising. Harnessing this momentum requires reforms in the education system to promote civic literacy, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Schools and universities must become spaces for dialogue and innovation, empowering the next generation to actively engage in societal reform.

Economic justice and opportunity: Economic disparities were a major driver of the uprising. Reform must address the structural inequalities that perpetuate poverty and unemployment. Civic engagement can play a role here by fostering community-based economic initiatives, supporting local businesses, and advocating for fair labour practices.

Environmental stewardship and sustainability: No vision for reform is complete without addressing the pressing need for environmental sustainability. Civic movements can push for policies that prioritise renewable energy, sustainable development, and the preservation of natural resources for future generations.

The July uprising demonstrated the strength of grassroots movements in mobilising communities and driving change. These movements operate outside traditional power structures, giving voice to those who are often overlooked by mainstream politics. Moving forward, grassroots organisations must continue to play a central role in the reform process, fostering local solutions to national problems and bridging the gap between citizens and policymakers.

Grassroots efforts can also inspire innovation in governance. Participatory democracy models, such as citizen assemblies or town hall meetings, can ensure that diverse perspectives are included in decision-making processes. By creating platforms for dialogue and collaboration, these initiatives can help build a more inclusive and responsive society.

Technology offers new opportunities for civic engagement and reform. Digital platforms can facilitate communication, organise movements, and hold leaders accountable. In the aftermath of the uprising, technology must be leveraged to ensure that the momentum for change is not lost. Online petitions, social media campaigns, and civic tech tools like open data portals can enable citizens to monitor progress, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions.

However, the use of technology must be accompanied by measures to address digital divides and misinformation. Ensuring access to technology for all citizens, particularly in rural and underserved areas, is critical to fostering inclusive civic participation.

While the energy of the uprising is vital, sustainable reform requires translating civic action into policy change. This involves fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration between citizens, civil society, and government institutions. Mechanisms such as public consultations, citizen advisory councils, and participatory policy development can institutionalise the principles of civic engagement, ensuring that reform is not just a response to crisis but an ongoing process.

Reimagining reform through civic engagement is not without its challenges. Resistance from entrenched power structures, the risk of co-optation by political agendas, and the fatigue of sustained activism can hinder progress. Overcoming these obstacles requires persistence, solidarity, and a commitment to shared values.

Leadership is also crucial. Reform efforts need champions — individuals and organisations that can inspire trust, bridge divides, and guide the process of change. These leaders must embody the principles of civic engagement, prioritising collaboration and inclusivity over personal gain.

The July uprising was a wake-up call, a reminder that the power to shape a nation lies in the hands of its people. As we move forward, civic engagement must remain at the heart of the reform process. By fostering a culture of participation, inclusivity, and accountability, we can reimagine a society that reflects the aspirations and needs of its citizens.

Reforming a nation is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. It requires the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and institutions working together towards a shared vision of justice, equity, and progress. The July uprising has given us an opportunity to reimagine what is possible. Let us seize this moment to build a future that honours the sacrifices and hopes of all who have fought for change.

Mohammad Jashim Uddin is an associate professor of English at the Northern University Bangladesh.​

 

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Don't worry about reforms, we will implement them: BNP's Amir Khosru

BNP leader Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has stressed the need for political unity to support the interim government in ensuring a democratic transition of power. There is no need for others to worry about state reforms as the BNP is committed to implementing them, he said at the seventh national confer

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Don't worry about reforms, we will implement them: BNP's Amir Khosru
Published :
Nov 30, 2024 13:43
Updated :
Nov 30, 2024 13:43

BNP leader Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has stressed the need for political unity to support the interim government in ensuring a democratic transition of power.

There is no need for others to worry about state reforms as the BNP is committed to implementing them, he said at the seventh national conference of Gono Forum at the Engineers Institution Auditorium in Dhaka on Saturday.

The BNP leader accused those aligned with authoritarian powers of trying to destabilise the country through various means, reports bdnews24.com.

"Once authoritarian forces seize power by stripping the people of their autonomy and voting rights, they take away other rights as well," he said.

He referred to a string of recent events, including the Ansar revolts, incidents involving minorities, and unrest linked to autorickshaw drivers, that he alleged were aimed at creating instability.

"These activities are attempts to disrupt stability. Today, as we dream of building a new Bangladesh, political parties and the united populace must share a singular vision for the nation's future," Khosru added.

"We have removed the autocratic forces, but to fulfil the people’s expectations and aspirations, we must return to democratic norms collectively."

Khosru also addressed recent events that have stoked communal tensions, saying: "Incidents in the name of religion need to be analysed deeply. While I won’t claim communal issues don’t exist in Bangladesh, efforts to exaggerate and create instability must be thwarted. The destructive reactions seen abroad, such as attacks on Bangladesh's consulate in Kolkata, do not reflect the sentiments of the Bangladeshi people."

"We must ensure that external influences do not hinder our aspirations to build the Bangladesh of tomorrow. The only path forward is a peaceful, democratic process for transferring power, and everyone must unite behind this mission."

Khosru outlined his party's goal of restoring the people's democratic rights through elections.

"We presented a 31-point reform plan a year ago, which encompasses our vision for Bangladesh. It is this agenda that we pledge to implement as a national government after the elections."

"There’s no need to worry about reforms. We agree to make the necessary electoral and governance reforms based on a consensus of national unity. These changes can be implemented swiftly, ensuring power is returned to the people through elections."

Emphasising reforms to fulfil national aspirations, he added: "The upcoming national government will implement the 31-point agenda. This is a promise to the nation, and we are fully committed to realising it."​

 

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State reforms vital for improving education system

University faculty members at an event yesterday argued that a corrupt state system inevitably leads to a decline in education quality and emphasised that reforming the state system was essential for improving the education sector.

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State reforms vital for improving education system
University teachers say at Star discussion

Participants of “Pedagogy of Protest: A Discussion with University Teachers on the Frontlines” at The Daily Star Centre yesterday. The event was organised as part of the newspaper’s weeklong event styled “36 Days of July: Saluting the Bravehearts”. Photo: Star

University faculty members at an event yesterday argued that a corrupt state system inevitably leads to a decline in education quality and emphasised that reforming the state system was essential for improving the education sector.

They made the remarks during a discussion titled "Pedagogy of Protest: A Discussion with University Teachers on the Frontlines," organised by The Daily Star. This was the second storytelling session in the weeklong programme "36 Days of July: Saluting the Bravehearts," held at The Daily Star Centre in capital.

Speaking on student politics, Dhaka University Prof Md Tanzimuddin Khan said public university students were often forced to join politics by party leaders, and it would be wrong to judge them solely based on their political affiliation.

"If students do not engage in politics, who will? This change we brought about was the result of a kind of political activism. While we can debate its quality, politics remains fundamental."

Prof Tanzimuddin Khan, also a member of the University Grants Commission (UGC), said universities established under the previous regime were in dire condition.

"Some universities exist only on paper. In the name of higher education, the previous authorities have deceived students. Not speaking out about such crimes is also a crime.

"If the state system is not in order and is overrun by mafias, the quality of education deteriorates, and ultimately the sector suffers."

"So, without bringing change to the state system, it will not be possible to bring any change to the education sector."

DU Prof Kamrul Hassan compared teachers and journalists to the "white blood cells" of society, but lamented their diminished role over time.

"We should remember that we cannot go back to the state we fought against. We must commit ourselves and be informed about our responsibility..

Prof Kamrul also said it was the responsibility of teachers to prepare the next generation for the future and the same applied to journalists, who must carry out their roles as watchdogs of society.

"We failed to build universities as true institutions of higher learning. We have allowed discrimination to persist among students and teachers. Students are still afraid to ask questions, keeping universities at a school-like level."

Meanwhile, Prof Mirza Taslima Sultana of Jahangirnagar University called for greater autonomy for universities, asserting that each institution should have the freedom to set its priorities.

"Students must be empowered to voice their demands. To this end, student unions are required, not only at the central level but in every department. And this practice must begin in schools and colleges."

She also urged citizens to question the continued existence of discrimination, even after successful anti-discrimination movements.

Echoing the call for university autonomy, Musharrat Sharmee Hossain, a faculty member at North South University, said, "We must consider the unique characters of each university and conduct its academic and administrative activities accordingly."

"Without autonomy, the UGC exerts too much control, deciding everything from the timing of classes to whether they should be online or offline."

Shahnawaz Khan Chandan, a teacher at Jagannath University, said, "If we can ensure quality education at the grassroots, then we can provide quality education to the masses."

While moderating the event, Nazia Manzoor, editor of Daily Star Books and Literature, said, "We need to question the structural flaws in society from the root level. If we can't raise questions now, the future of this country will be bleak, to avoid which we took part in the July-August uprising."

Participants also discussed the prevalence of a culture of intolerance and recommended that family guidance and education, beginning at the primary level, are crucial for promoting mutual understanding and respect.​

 

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Powerful lobbies, elites and corporate interests thwart tax reforms

According to the white paper on the state of the economy

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Powerful lobbies, elites and corporate interests thwart tax reforms
According to the white paper on the state of the economy

A complex political economy that sees powerful lobbies, political elites and corporate interests oppose changes to the status quo has limited the mobilisation of domestic resources by slowing the pace of planned reforms, according to the white paper on the state of the economy.

Although multiple documents have outlined various tax reforms and emphasised the need for the digitalisation of government services, these reforms have never been fully implemented.

Among the most pressing issues has been low tax collection, which the paper said was driven by weak governance, widespread corruption, and a lack of trust in how tax revenue is used.

According to the paper, it is worth noting that the 7th Five Year Plan had set a target of raising the revenue-GDP ratio from 10.9 percent to 16 percent by the end of the plan period.

However, the paper added it is abundantly evident that "corruption, especially in tax administration, leads to widespread tax evasion and poor compliance".

"The informal and discretionary tax system benefits these groups, making reform difficult," it said, adding that the so-called push for digitalisation has stalled for the same reasons.

It stated that the 1991 VAT reform's success stands in contrast to subsequent failures, emphasising the necessity of substantial political backing, technical planning, and stakeholder ownership in order to accomplish significant tax reforms.

The half-hearted automation of the National Board of Revenue's (NBR) tax collection system is a major barrier to effective revenue generation, deepening inefficiencies and fostering a climate of non-compliance, the white paper pointed out.

Although the NBR has implemented certain automated tax filing and payment systems, these initiatives are dispersed and not entirely integrated with other pertinent and vital organisations, including the Ministry of Finance, the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies, the Bangladesh Bank, and others, the paper alleged.

Because of this fragmented strategy, the NBR is unable to obtain up-to-date information on individuals and companies, which makes it more difficult to effectively track revenue, monitor corporate operations and stop tax evasion.

If the NBR does not have a comprehensive picture of a taxpayer's financial transactions across several industries, it is exposed to fraud, false declarations, and underreporting, the paper added.

Additionally, weak local governance and limited fiscal decentralisation hinder public service delivery, discouraging citizens from paying taxes, it said.

While the 1991 VAT reform succeeded, subsequent attempts, such as customs duties reform and VAT expansions, faced opposition and were poorly implemented, it added.

According to the paper, efforts like the 2011 Tax Modernisation Plan and 2012 VAT Law failed to modernise the tax system, which is outdated and ineffective in generating sufficient revenue.

The paper also pointed out that personal income tax yields, which account for only 1 percent of the GDP, are still low although per capita income is rising. It attributed this to poor compliance, a disproportionate number of exemptions, and ineffective administration in the personal income tax system.

It also said tax evasion is common, especially among high earners, driven by corruption, political connections and informal deals with tax collectors.

Difficult filing requirements, such as being asked to provide wealth statements, further discourage compliance.

The paper estimated that tax evasion is widespread, aided by political connections and informal settlements with tax officials.

As for corporate taxation, the white paper said the system is complex, with varying rates across sectors, and high rates in sectors such as tobacco and telecommunications, discouraging investment.

The problems at the NBR begin at the top, with efficient administration and governance of the revenue authority being seriously hampered by the current procedure to choose the chairman, the white paper committee said.

The NBR Order 1973, which stipulated that the NBR chairman would be chosen from one of the NBR members, was the reference point.

However, an ordinance was passed in 1979 that allowed the NBR chairman to be selected from the administration cadre.

These appointments created problems as such individuals could not properly grasp nor adequately address the complexities of the NBR's operations.

Additionally, the tenure of the NBR chairman is structured in such a way that it encourages short-term objectives over long-term, sustainable reforms, the white paper added.

"For tax reform to succeed, it's not just about policy; it is also about overcoming political and bureaucratic resistance and addressing corruption," it said.

Bangladesh's tax collection woes reflect a deeper issue: reforming the system means dismantling decades of political influence and a culture of favouritism.

"The way forward to greater domestic resource mobilisation lies in better governance and stronger institutions," the paper added.​

 

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Continue reforms to retain trade after LDC graduation

The reform initiatives taken by the interim government should be continued as these reforms may pave the way towards a more modern, equal and inclusive Bangladesh, said a top official of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

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Continue reforms to retain trade after LDC graduation
Says ILO assistant director-general in an interview with The Daily Star

Manuela Tomei

The reform initiatives taken by the interim government should be continued as these reforms may pave the way towards a more modern, equal and inclusive Bangladesh, said a top official of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

In an interview with The Daily Star in Dhaka, Manuela Tomei, assistant director-general for Governance, Rights and Dialogue at the ILO, said adapting to changes after Bangladesh's graduation from a least developed country (LDC) in 2026 would not be easy for the country as all preferential market treatments would no longer be available.

"That is why the current reforms are so important," she emphasised.

"It is very important that these reforms do not remain on paper but actually pave the way for a journey towards a much more modern, equal, inclusive and high-performing Bangladesh," Tomei said.

Tomei, who came to Dhaka recently to attend meetings on industrial relations, said the ILO will continue to provide the support it has been offering.

She said the support would not be to the government only, rather it would be rendered to social partners with regard to improving the quality of labour laws and the functioning of institutions that are essential to ensure full implementation of those laws.

Another very important part of pre-graduation, which will be absolutely instrumental in ensuring opportunities once Bangladesh graduates from LDC status, is ratifying 10 fundamental ILO conventions, she said.

So far, Bangladesh has ratified eight of them. According to Tomei, Bangladesh should also ratify all the conventions as decided by all states in the 2022 ILO Conference.

Regarding her visit to Dhaka, Tomei said that the interim government in November of this year made an appearance to the governing body of the ILO regarding measures they were about to take in response to a complaint filed against the government of Bangladesh.

The complaint is about Bangladesh's breaching three conventions that the government has ratified -- freedom of association convention, the convention on the right to collective bargaining and the convention on labour inspection to ensure proper respect of labour rights.

She said the ILO received a very encouraging message from the interim government with a clear commitment to act upon the requests made and chart a number of measures with specific timeframes.

"So, my visit here is to express of course the support of the ILO office to the commitments of the interim government as well as the commitment taken by our social partners and the workers and employers organisations to push forward these reforms to deliver on decent work and social justice."

According to her, the purpose of the visit was also to see to what extent, besides the much-needed labour law reforms, the ILO could support ongoing efforts and commitments taken by workers, their organisations and the government to move jointly towards a more effective and transparent social dialogue to maintain and sustain the outcomes of labour law reforms.

Tomei said labour law reforms and implementation are quite important for the post-graduation period because of increasing requirements and expectations in major markets for Bangladesh's exports.

Other countries require compliance with human rights, due diligence and 10 fundamental principles at work, including occupational safety and health, she commented. "This package of rights is regarded as enabling the country to improve the realisation of other labour rights because of freedom of association and collective bargaining."

If you are able to speak with one voice for a large number of businesses or workers, you can reduce transaction costs and negotiate for better wages, Tomei said.

"Change in the law does not guarantee that the law will be implemented or respected, and it is very important to have a tripartite joint commitment to engage in meaningful dialogue to achieve balanced outcomes."

"Because we have the interests of workers, the government and employers, we need to find a middle ground," she said.

"So, social dialogue is very important from that viewpoint," said the top ILO official, adding that another critical issue relates to supporting the efforts the interim government has committed to engaging in, which refers to managing grievances to precisely avoid potential major concerns escalating into strikes or riots.

She advocated for having a mechanism in place that is independent and transparent and allows for properly addressing disputes arising from work and employment relationships.

"So, let me start by saying that labour rights are human rights. Because all these, not only the fundamental principle rights at work, even the right to a living wage recognised by the covenants and social and economic rights, all these rights have been articulated also in the human rights declaration," she added.

"Labour rights and human rights are absolutely essential," she said. "Often, there is a perception that respecting these rights would translate into additional costs and therefore increase production costs for employers, resulting in lower competitiveness for enterprises respecting these rights."

But the evidence actually shows that respecting these fundamental principles, rights and conventions, including freedom of association and collective bargaining, does not compromise a country's competitive position, she commented.

"We have substantial empirical evidence demonstrating this."

Undoubtedly, to reduce labour costs, you need to improve productivity. Better working conditions are essential for enhancing productivity, but you also need other interventions such as skills enhancement to compete, Tomei said.

Bangladesh has already done some work in this respect immediately after the Rana Plaza garment factory collapse in 2013, and the current government is committed to delivering on this particular piece of a broader set of reforms, she added.

"I think there is no doubt about the political commitment and, as I said, the commitment from social partners, workers and employers are absolutely essential for this to work in practice."

Moving towards a new status will also translate into the elimination of several preferential treatments Bangladesh previously had access to as an LDC country.

However, the various reforms being envisioned -- not only in terms of labour law content but also in modernising and improving the industrial relations system, determining national wage policies including the minimum wage and identifying social protection -- are absolutely essential to act as a reference and facilitate the transition, she added.

"So, I am confident that Bangladesh will be able to be up to the task," she also said.

"As I said, there is growing pressure on investors and buyers to do business with countries that uphold certain rights. This is no longer an option."

"This is why investing in labour law improvement, transparency, and a well-functioning and fair industrial relations system is crucial to diversifying the economy.

"I mean Bangladesh definitely needs to diversify and cannot just rely essentially or mainly on the revenue coming from the ready-made garment industry," she added.​