Publication Date

5-2025

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

5-6-2025

Type of Culminating Activity

Thesis

Degree Title

Master of Arts in Political Science

Department

Political Science

Supervisory Committee Chair

Ross Burkhart, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Nisha Bellinger, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Isaac Castellano, Ph.D.

Abstract

Democracy in Bangladesh has fluctuated since its independence, shaped by governance failures, institutional weaknesses, and socioeconomic factors. While the country has experienced economic growth, challenges such as electoral irregularities, judicial inefficiency, and corruption continue to undermine democratic stability. Despite these issues, Bangladesh's global democracy rankings present mixed trends, raising questions about the relationship between economic development, inequality, and governance. This study examines how policy failures and institutional weaknesses influence Bangladesh’s democracy rankings and explores the role of income inequality, using Frederick Solt’s SWIID dataset. A mixed-methods approach integrates quantitative analysis of democracy indices, economic indicators, and regression models with qualitative case studies of governance crises. Findings reveal a disconnect between economic progress and democratic governance, with inequality exhibiting a complex, nonlinear relationship with democracy.

The research highlights the need for stronger institutional reforms, electoral integrity, and inclusive policies to ensure sustainable democratic governance. By assessing economic growth, inequality, and governance failures, this study offers insights relevant to both Bangladesh and other developing nations facing similar democratic challenges.

DOI

10.18122/td.2409.boisestate

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