Corruption in Bangladesh: What’s Being Done to Tackle It?

Corruption in Bangladesh has long been a serious obstacle to governance, development, and public trust. From bureaucratic delays to high-profile scandals, corruption permeates many sectors of the country’s economy and political framework. However, over the past decade, both governmental and non-governmental bodies have made significant attempts to curb this pervasive issue.

How Corruption Manifests Across Sectors

Corruption in Bangladesh affects everything from land registration and healthcare to law enforcement and public procurement. Bribes, nepotism, and manipulation of public tenders are common complaints among citizens. According to various surveys, more than 60% of people report experiencing or witnessing corruption during routine administrative processes.

High-profile corruption cases involving banking fraud, tax evasion, and embezzlement have also drawn public outrage and international concern. As noted in ZoomBangla’s Economy section, financial irregularities in the banking sector have had ripple effects on investment and public confidence.

Government Efforts to Combat Corruption

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is the primary state body responsible for investigating and prosecuting corruption. In recent years, the ACC has launched digital complaint portals, hotlines, and mobile apps to make it easier for citizens to report corrupt practices anonymously.

The government has also introduced digitized services for tax filing, land registration, and passport issuance to reduce face-to-face interactions—thereby lowering opportunities for bribery. Additionally, several high-ranking officials and politicians have been arrested and tried under anti-corruption laws, signaling a stricter stance from authorities.

Judicial and Legislative Measures

Legal frameworks like the Money Laundering Prevention Act, Right to Information Act, and Whistleblower Protection Act have provided additional tools to fight corruption. Fast-track courts are being used to process financial crimes and recover laundered assets.

However, critics argue that legal enforcement remains inconsistent, especially when it comes to politically influential individuals. Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has repeatedly emphasized the need for judicial independence and protection of whistleblowers to ensure fair proceedings.

Technology and Digital Governance

Digitization is playing a pivotal role in reducing corruption. The introduction of e-Governance tools has minimized human intervention in public service delivery. For example:

• Online utility bill payments reduce bribery at counters.
• Digital tax portals eliminate middlemen and increase transparency.
• Mobile banking prevents fund misappropriation in government aid disbursements.

These tools are not only streamlining services but also generating traceable records that hold departments accountable.

Civil Society and Media’s Role

Civil society organizations, journalists, and watchdog groups play a crucial role in uncovering corruption and advocating for reforms. Media exposés on embezzlement, ghost employees, and procurement scandals often lead to public outrage and policy changes.

Organizations like Transparency International Bangladesh and SHUJAN continuously publish corruption perception reports and engage in public education campaigns.

International Cooperation and Pressure

Bangladesh’s ranking in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) is closely watched by international investors and development agencies. Countries like the United States and members of the European Union have linked foreign aid and trade preferences to progress on anti-corruption reforms.

Bangladesh has also partnered with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and regional forums to share best practices and improve institutional integrity.

Challenges and Roadblocks

Despite numerous efforts, several challenges remain:

• Political interference in investigations
• Fear of retaliation among whistleblowers
• Limited resources for the ACC
• Public apathy and normalization of corruption in daily life

Addressing these issues will require sustained effort, political will, and citizen participation across all levels of society.

While corruption in Bangladesh continues to pose serious challenges, there is also a growing wave of resistance. With increasing digital transparency, legal reform, civil activism, and international support, Bangladesh is gradually building a more accountable governance system. For real change to occur, it’s essential to keep up the pressure, empower watchdog institutions, and nurture a culture of integrity from the grassroots to the highest offices.

FAQs: Corruption in Bangladesh

1. What is the main agency combating corruption in Bangladesh?

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is the principal agency handling corruption cases.

2. What sectors are most affected by corruption?

Public procurement, land registration, law enforcement, and healthcare are among the most affected sectors.

3. Has digital governance helped reduce corruption?

Yes, e-governance has improved transparency and minimized bribery in many public services.

4. Is there political will to tackle corruption?

There have been high-profile arrests and reforms, but critics argue enforcement is not always impartial.

5. What can citizens do to fight corruption?

Report misconduct through official platforms, support watchdog organizations, and demand accountability from leaders.