Is the Bangladesh Paradox Sustainable?: The Institutional Diagnostic Project

Bangladesh has maintained economic growth and outperformed many countries on social indicators, but its economic progress does not seem to improve comparative institutional indicators. Is the Bangladesh Paradox Sustainable? examines whether such a paradoxical combination can be sustained in the long run if growth continues with no improvement in the quality of institutions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 444 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Bangladesh is a country that presents a fascinating paradox. Over the past quarter-century, it has achieved impressive economic growth and outperformed many nations on social indicators, while scoring relatively low on governance quality. Furthermore, while its economic progress indicates some improvement, it does not show significant progress in comparative institutional indicators. The question arises: can Bangladesh maintain this paradoxical combination of growth and low governance quality in the long run? This book explores this question by examining whether such a paradoxical scenario can be sustained if growth continues without improving the quality of institutions. It argues that while Bangladesh has become the second-largest world exporter of garments, it is crucial to diversify its exports, both within and outside the garment sector, to maintain its development pace.

To delve into this analysis, the book provides a comprehensive account of Bangladesh's economic, social, and political development. It examines critical institution- and development-sensitive areas such as the garment sector, banking, taxation, land management, the judiciary, and education. These areas play pivotal roles in shaping Bangladesh's trajectory and its ability to sustain its growth.

The book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that Bangladesh faces in its pursuit of development. It highlights the need for institutional reforms, improved governance, and inclusive policies to address the country's social and economic disparities. It also emphasizes the importance of promoting education, skill development, and innovation to create a more productive and competitive workforce.

Overall, "Is the Bangladesh Paradox Sustainable?" is a thought-provoking and informative book that sheds light on the complex dynamics of Bangladesh's development. It provides valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly growing economy in a developing world.

ISBN-13: 9781009284691