Bangladesh faces a critical juncture regarding its democratic future, potentially transitioning towards a popular autocracy. Current reforms recommended by the Constitution Reform Commission may not address the economic and environmental challenges posing threats to democracy. With increasing political discontent and the rise of demagogues, the need for effective citizen representation and engagement is crucial in preventing authoritarian governance.
The future of democracy in Bangladesh is under scrutiny as concerns arise regarding the potential for an increasingly popular autocracy. Despite attempts to fortify constitutional safeguards against an unpopular autocrat like Sheikh Hasina, these measures may prove inadequate should a demagogue with significant popular support emerges. The challenges of addressing not only economic inequalities but also environmental crises complicate the nation’s democratic landscape.
Ali Riaz, Chairman of the Constitution Reform Commission (CRC), revealed that the commission analyzed 121 national constitutions to propose democratic reforms for Bangladesh. However, the proposed changes draw heavily from contemporary liberal democracy rather than innovative approaches seen in more direct democratic traditions, such as those practiced in Classical Athens, leading to questions about their effectiveness.
Liberal democracies globally are facing crises, as established democratic institutions struggle to counter rising authoritarianism. The American model has demonstrated weaknesses, especially as it failed to prevent the re-election of figures like Trump, spotlighting the challenges inherent in representative democracies. Many believe that liberal structures may reach their limits, affecting the political stability otherwise fostered by traditional democratic norms.
Historical shifts have limited direct participation in governance, moving away from direct democracy towards a system where representatives act more as agents rather than delegates. This transition emphasizes a larger, centralized state that diminishes avenues for public engagement in political processes. Consequently, the roots of liberalism, particularly liberal capitalism, have often hindered true democratic practices by creating barriers to participatory governance.
The disconnection between economic and political domains has marginalized many citizens from genuine political discourse. The plight of economically disenfranchised groups has led to the scapegoating of minorities instead of addressing the root issues of class inequality. This climate creates fertile ground for demagogues to rise, leveraging societal grievances against vulnerable groups to solidify their power.
Revising Bangladesh’s constitution to mirror liberal democratic practices may not sufficiently protect against the threat of a popular demagogue. Observations suggest that mere addition of citizen representatives in the legislative body will not empower ordinary individuals to effect meaningful change in governance, especially if such representatives lack genuine authority.
The CRC’s proposal allows for minimal representation, raising doubts about their capability to influence party-centric decisions. For real democratic oversight in Bangladesh, a more robust model should emulate the Athenian practice, utilizing citizen assemblies to foster direct participation, counteracting tendencies toward authoritarianism.
Bangladesh is already witnessing early signs of demagoguery, as social media influencers rally popular support against established political figures. Voices advocating for populist policies risk undercutting unity against authoritarianism by employing divides along ethnic and religious lines. Future autocrats may exploit these divisions, effectively shy away from presenting democratic fronts in their quest for power.
The forthcoming constitutional reforms aim to enhance electoral fairness, yet they fall short of empowering grassroots democracy. Addressing this imbalance is crucial for safeguarding against reversion to authoritarian governance, emphasizing the need for citizens to engage in oversight roles. It is essential for political actors to mature and embrace a collaborative approach to navigate the challenges ahead in maintaining democratic integrity.
The article highlights the precarious state of democracy in Bangladesh, emphasizing the inadequacy of current constitutional reforms to stave off the rise of a popular autocracy. The need for genuine citizen representation and engagement in governance is paramount. Without this, the nation risks descending into authoritarianism spurred by demagogues leveraging societal divides. Political leaders and parties must work collaboratively to reinforce democratic institutions and empower ordinary citizens.
Original Source: netra.news
