Role of Social Capital in Democratic Consolidation: A Study on Civil Society Organizations in Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh has maintained an impressive track record on growth and development, and reached the lower middle income country. But the democratic consolidation is yet a burning question after the passing of four decades of independence. She is eulogized for its CSOs over the world, especially for the participation in socio-economic arena. But its participation in the political sphere is not vigilant for the acceleration of democratic consolidation. What are the inner and outer factors of CSOs for deterring peoples’ participation in the political arena? The present study tries to explore the role of social capital of CSOs and its influence on the democratic consolidation in Bangladesh. For investigation into CSOs, the study has followed the mix method approach where qualitative and quantitative data have been used to analyze the issues. The study explored the fact that social capital of CSOs among the members is satisfactory in terms of reciprocity, trust and network. But their collective action and involvement in common activities for the betterment of society are insignificant, which does not reflect vigorously on the social cohesion. Participation for establishing deliberative democracy in the functions of Union Parishad is negligible. Nevertheless the respondents have positive intention to participate in the collective actions and functions of the Union Parishad. The nexus between local and central political leaders makes a partyarchy which has shrunk the channel of participation. In addition, leaning to commercial venture, political bifurcation and low civic engagement of CSOs have intensified the problem. Indeed, the CSOs could not exert the demands and expectation of people in the political system at the expected level. To overcome the inertia of CSOs and its constraints of participation, the change is needed at both individual and institutional levels. The connectedness to friends, fellows, neighbors and social organizations will help to create a democratic attitude and social cohesion among the people. Institutional reform is needed, but its institutionalization depends on peoples’ democratic participation.