Sushil Samaj: The civil society and its controversy in contemporary Bangladesh

Abstract

The perception of civil society in Bangladesh is ambiguous due to its multifaceted nature and contested meanings in contemporary society. It is often translated as sushil samaj, nagorik samaj, and related terms. The political contestation of these meanings further complicates the understanding of their actual and practical uses in everyday life. It enhances the likelihood of being misleading about the concept’s depth. It also draws on discourse and documentary analysis of NGOs' reports, media accounts, academic literature, constitutional texts, and critical commentaries. It employs qualitative and interpretive methods. This research investigates four criteria: the translation of Sushil Samaj as a contested phenomenon, the discourse, and media-based popular perceptions. The study highlights the ambiguity of institutional roles, the contradictions of NGOs, and the theoretical debates between liberal-democratic and Marxist perspectives. The findings guide the reader regarding the role of civil society in promoting democracy, rights, and accountability. Elite dominance in civil society is prevalent and raises objections. Major concerns regarding civil society include political co-optation, donor dependence, and corruption. This article argues that civil society appears to lack accountability and that this weakness stems from both internal and external pressures. It requires greater autonomy, inclusivity, and a democratic orientation.