From Rhetoric To Reality: Assessing The Inclusion Of Persons With Disabilities In Local Government Of Bangladesh

Abstract

The inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) particularly Physically Challenged Persons in the local governance structures of Bangladesh remains a significant challenge despite national and international commitments toward inclusivity. This exclusion is largely due to socio-cultural stigmas, insufficient legal frameworks and the lack of awareness about disability rights among local authorities. In this backdrop this study attempts to explore how far inclusion of Physically Challenged Persons is being implemented in the domain of local government. The prime objective of this study is to assess the present scenario of Physically Challenged Persons’ inclusion in local government and to unveil the problems they encounter and the prospects therein for effective inclusion of PWDs. To do this, a mixed method approach was applied combining both qualitative and quantitative methods consisting of sample survey among 100 Physically Challenged Persons, 50 KIIs, 2 FGD. The study brings into surface that hardly PWDs have any space or opportunity for their inclusion or participation in committee meeting, decision making, election participation, leadership roles in the affairs of local government. Their voices are never heard and they are facing negative socio- institutional discrimination while participating in local government activities. Additionally, their awareness level about different government policies and programs still remain disappointing therefore government intervention in the form of policies, plans, projects and programs are being called for full inclusion of PWDs in the local government.