Re-Interrogating Civil Society in South Asia: Critical Perspectives from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh

This book provides an overview of the history and development of civil society in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh from colonial times to the present, examining the liberalization of civil society since the 1980s, the professionalization of civil society organizations, and the extent to which civil society may benefit society at large. It also looks at forms of transfer of civil society models, representation and democratic legitimacy of civil society organizations, and the structuring of civil society through legal frames.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume provides a thorough exploration of the historical and contemporary development of civil society in three major nations of South Asia: Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Spanning from colonial times to the present, it delves into the intricate dynamics of civil society's evolution, examining the liberalization processes that have shaped its landscape since the 1980s. The book explores the diverse needs that have arisen from the liberalization, including the professionalization of civil society organizations and the potential benefits they can bring to society at large.

In the context of local, national, and global transformations in the economy, political regime, and ideology, the book sheds light on the complex interplay between the liberalization of multifaceted civil societies in these countries. It highlights contrasting perspectives, such as restrictions imposed on women's organizations and labor unions, as well as the acceptance of religious organizations' activities. The volume also examines the forms of transfer of civil society models, the representation and democratic legitimacy of civil society organizations, including nongovernmental organizations, government-organized NGOs, and faith-based organizations.

Furthermore, it explores the structuring of civil society through legal frames and the mobilization of various groups, such as women, religious minorities, and ethnic and linguistic minorities, around language and literature. The book employs wide-ranging empirical data and theoretical analyses to address civil society issues related to human rights, political challenges, justice, inequality, empowerment, and the role of bureaucracy, women's movements, and ethnic and linguistic minorities. It also provides early responses to the COVID-19 crisis of 2020, which exerted significant pressure on both states and civil society.

This book is of immense value to scholars and researchers in the fields of political studies, development studies, sociology, public policy and governance, law, and human rights. It will also be useful to professionals working in think tanks, civil society activists, and policymakers seeking to understand the complexities of civil society development in South Asia.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367754396