Assignment Name: Local Governance Study

Country: Bangladesh

Client Name: BIGD, BRAC University

DM WATCH undertook this comprehensive study from July to September 2017 in Dhaka City. The study was commissioned by BIGD, BRAC University with the primary objective of identifying and analyzing the determinants of political incentives for Union Parishad (UP) leaders. This involved exploring how these incentives influence the promotion and nurturing of inclusive, participatory, and pro-poor governance mechanisms within the lowest tier of local government in Bangladesh. The study aimed to dissect the characteristics of political society at both local (UP/UZ) and national (MP/national politics) levels, investigate the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and assess the impacts of recent legislative acts, laws, new institutional or programmatic interventions on the behaviors and incentives of UP leaders. Additionally, the study examined the influence of emerging business sectors, increased literacy rates, and urban linkages such as media exposure and migration on political settlements at the UP level.

The following services were provided by the DM WATCH team:

Research Design and Methodology Development:

• Designed the study framework, including qualitative research methodologies incorporating Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with local government officials such as Chairpersons and UP Members. Developed tools and guidelines for effectively gathering and analyzing data.

Stakeholder Engagement and Data Collection:

• Conducted numerous FGDs and KIIs to collect insights directly from local government officials and other stakeholders. These interactions helped to gather detailed understandings of the political incentives and governance mechanisms at play within Union Parishads.

Workshop and Seminar Facilitation:

• Organized and facilitated multiple participatory workshops, seminars, and discussion sessions aimed at dissecting the political incentives of UP leaders for fostering inclusive governance. These events were pivotal in engaging stakeholders actively and soliciting candid feedback and perspectives.

Analysis of Political and Civil Society Dynamics:

• Analyzed the characteristics of political society and the nature of civil society at local and national levels. Explored the dynamics of clientelism and the effects of various factors such as new businesses, increased literacy, and urban linkages on political behavior and settlement at the UP level.

Impact Assessment:

• Investigated the impacts of recent acts, laws, and new institutional or program interventions on the behavior and incentives of UP leaders, as well as the implications for poor citizens, both men and women. This involved a detailed examination of how these elements influence governance practices and citizen engagement.

Reporting and Recommendations:

• Compiled the findings into comprehensive reports that outlined the determinants of political incentives and their effects on governance mechanisms. Provided actionable recommendations for enhancing governance practices based on empirical data and stakeholder feedback.

Presentation and Dissemination:

• Presented the study findings to BIGD, BRAC University, and other relevant stakeholders. Prepared and disseminated detailed reports and policy briefs to inform future governance interventions and policy formulations.