Students Revolt: Exposing Bangladesh’s Corruption

Mike Masoud;
August 7, 2024

Introduction

In early July 2024, Bangladesh witnessed a significant student uprising that captured the attention of international media, drawing parallels with historical movements for social justice and democracy. This surge of student activism did not emerge from a vacuum; it is a direct response to the pervasive corruption that has plagued the nation for years. As we delve into the root causes of this movement, it becomes evident that corruption, deeply embedded in Bangladesh’s political and social systems, has been the primary driver behind the students’ demands for transparency, accountability, and institutionalizing the fight against corruption.

Corruption: The Catalyst for Uprising

The student uprising in Bangladesh is a powerful testament to the frustration and disillusionment of the younger generation with the status quo. For over a decade, Bangladesh has grappled with endemic corruption, which has permeated all levels of government and society. According to the Corruption Perceptions Index 2023, Bangladesh performed worse than any other year in the past decade and a half, highlighting the severity of the issue (Staff Correspondent 2024). This pervasive corruption has resulted in a lack of trust in public institutions, widespread inequality, and a stifling of economic and social progress.

The catalyst for the recent student uprising was multifaceted, rooted in years of dissatisfaction with the government’s inability to address corruption effectively. Reports by Al Jazeera revealed that high-ranking officials, including former generals, were blacklisted by the US due to their involvement in corrupt activities (Ritzen and Al Jazeera Investigative Unit 2024). Furthermore, societal factors have been identified as significant drivers of corruption among public officials in Bangladesh, exacerbating the problem (Uddin 2024).

Autocracy and Corruption in Developing Countries

Bangladesh’s struggles with corruption are not unique; they mirror a broader trend observed in many developing countries, where autocratic regimes often foster environments ripe for corruption. Autocratic leaders, unchecked by democratic institutions and processes, are prone to misuse public resources, engage in nepotism, and suppress dissent. The reign of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which recently ended after 15 years, is a case in point (Al Jazeera 2024). During her tenure, allegations of corruption and human rights abuses were rampant, further fueling public discontent and calls for change (Ganguly 2024).

In many developing nations, autocratic governance exacerbates corruption by consolidating power in the hands of a few, limiting transparency, and curtailing the independence of anti-corruption bodies. This creates a vicious cycle where corruption flourishes, leading to poor governance, economic inefficiencies, and social unrest. The situation in Bangladesh underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to break this cycle and promote accountability, good governance, and transparency.

A Framework for Fighting Corruption: The Ten Principles

To address the deep-rooted corruption in Bangladesh and similar contexts, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive and institutionalized approach to anti-corruption efforts. The American Anti-Corruption Institute (AACI) has promulgated the Ten Principles of Fighting Corruption, which provide a robust framework for achieving this goal. These principles, accompanied by the Standards on Fighting Corruption (SFCs), emphasize the importance of transparency, accountability, rule of law, and civic engagement, among other key elements (AACI).

The ten principles are:

1. The Pervasiveness of the Rule of Law

2. Effective Internal Control

3. Effective and Good Governance

4. Independent and Effective Judiciary

5. Power and Accountability

6. Investment in Corruption Prevention

7. Quantification of Corruption Exposure

8. Certainty of Punishment

9. No Statute of Limitations

10. Rewarding Corruption Fighters

The effective implementation of these principles, their standards, and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) lays down the proper foundation to institutionalize the fight against corruption. As a result, it will help in:

a. Commitment at the Top: Leadership must demonstrate a clear commitment to fighting corruption.

b. Establishing Clear Policies and Procedures: Implement comprehensive anti-corruption strategies, policies and procedures.

c. Promoting Transparency and Access to Information: Ensure public access to information and decision-making processes.

d. Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Develop and enforce strong anti-corruption laws and institutions.

e. Enhancing Public Sector Integrity: Promote ethical behavior and integrity in the public sector.

f. Encouraging Civic Engagement and Public Participation: Involve citizens in anti-corruption initiatives.

g. Strengthening the Role of Civil Society and Media: Support the role of civil society and independent media in exposing and combating corruption.

h. Implementing Effective Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms to monitor and evaluate anti-corruption efforts.

i. Providing Adequate Resources and Training: Allocate resources and provide targeted training for anti-corruption initiatives.

g. Fostering International Cooperation and Exchange: Engage in international cooperation and exchange best practices.

These principles serve as a guide for governments, institutions, and civil society organizations committed to eradicating corruption and building transparent, accountable governance systems. By adopting and implementing these principles, Bangladesh and other developing countries can create an environment where corruption is systematically addressed, and the foundations of a just and equitable society are strengthened.

Conclusion

The student uprising in Bangladesh is a stark reminder of the profound impact that corruption can have on society, particularly on the younger generation’s aspirations and trust in their country’s future. As decision-makers and leaders globally reflect on this movement, it is crucial to recognize the importance of comprehensive anti-corruption frameworks, such as the Ten Principles of Fighting Corruption promulgated by The AACI in addition to the UNCAC. By committing to transparency, accountability, and good governance, nations can pave the way for sustainable development, social justice, and lasting peace. The lessons from Bangladesh’s struggle against corruption should inspire collective action to build a world where integrity and justice prevail.