Major Challenges of training process for the elected representatives of Local Government Institutions in Bangladesh

Abstract

The Constitution of Bangladesh emphasizes the need for establishing local government with a representative character (Chapter 3, Article 59). Article 59 mandates the creation of elected local bodies as administrative unit- Division, District, Upazila (sub-district) and Union (mostly rural local government). These bodies are for the management of local affairs by locally elected persons. Local government, by definition, is democratic self-governance and so accountable to the people.

There are two types of local government settings in Bangladesh, rural and urban. In the rural areas, the existing system provides a three-tier structure, which is Zila (district) Parishad, Upazila Parishad, and Union Parishad (UP). At the urban areas, the ten larger cities have City Corporation status, while the rest are known as Pourashavas or Municipalities.

Around the world most challenges faced by people are local. So, the best way to solve those is through local initiatives and local leadership by awakening and mobilizing the people. Authorities closest to the citizen or citizens themselves by getting directly involved can greatly contribute in solving public problems. Local government brings decision-making process closer to the people. A strong local government system can ensure good governance through transparency, accountability, effective participation and equal opportunities for all. Most importantly, this system can ensure development at the grassroots level. Strong local government institutions strengthen democracy; ensure good governance, and socioeconomic development of the country. National Institute of Local Government (NILG) is carrying out duties to inform the local government functionaries about laws, rules and circulars to perform their work properly. NILG faces some challenges to develop and implement their activities timely due to huge Number of Clients working in various types of local government institutions. Diversified Participants, Wider topics, and some other limitations are the prime challenges or problems faced by NILG. We can reduce these problems by replicating some Japanese experiences in our country.