The Conflict between Corruption and Good Governance: Bangladesh’s Experience in ‎the Last Fifteen Years (2009-2024)‎

Abstract

The article aims to analyze the main factors of corruption in Bangladesh for the time period 2009-2024. It emphasizes the political, institutional, and economic forces behind this significant challenge in Bangladesh. Corruption disrupts the good governance, economy, institutions, and creates mistrust in government. Over the last 15 years (2009-2024), about £180 billion was laundered to foreign countries from Bangladesh due to the pervasive corruption among politicians, bureaucrats, and businesses. Since 2009, major infrastructure projects and the stock exchange have faced significant financial challenges. Public dissatisfaction arising from unemployment, economic instability, and government corruption has affected virtually all sectors of the economy. The conflict between corruption and governance has significantly weakened our institutions, leading to political instability and impeding socio-economic progress. This study also examines the relationship between corruption and governance in the last fifteen Years (2009-2024). This study adopts a qualitative research design. It uses a desk-based analysis of secondary data. Sources include government reports, audit documents, policy papers, court verdicts, and reports from international organizations. The paper critically evaluates the limitations and successes of governance initiatives. It also offers policy recommendations to increase institutional accountability, improve regulatory frameworks, and enhance citizen participation. The results indicate that combating corruption and achieving sustained improvements in governance requires political will, structural reforms, and active public engagement. The study also makes suggestions for policies that might improve governance and appeals for long-term political will and structural changes.