This article examines the challenges of local governance in Bangladesh and the growing disconnect between citizens and local institutions. While digitalization aimed to improve services, it has created accessibility gaps for rural residents. Village courts are underutilized, and rising election costs limit access to political office. Citizen participation is low, with limited awareness of ward meetings. The article emphasizes the need for a more inclusive approach, incorporating offline solutions, digital literacy training, and direct engagement to ensure effective local governance. The study suggests that a more inclusive approach is needed, incorporating offline solutions, digital literacy training, and direct engagement with rural communities to ensure effective local governance.
This article examines the challenges of local governance in Bangladesh and the growing disconnect between citizens and local institutions. While digitalization aimed to improve services, it has created accessibility gaps for rural residents. Village courts are underutilized, and rising election costs limit access to political office. Citizen participation is low, with limited awareness of ward meetings. The article emphasizes the need for a more inclusive approach, incorporating offline solutions, digital literacy training, and direct engagement to ensure effective local governance. The study suggests that a more inclusive approach is needed, incorporating offline solutions, digital literacy training, and direct engagement with rural communities to ensure effective local governance.
