Helpdesk

Question
Underdevelopment and Radicalisation in Bangladesh: What are the links between underdevelopment and radicalisation in Bangladesh? Is there any evidence that investments in development and poverty reduction have had an impact on radicalisation?

Helpdesk response
Key findings: While some experts cite poverty as a contributing factor to radicalisation, the vast majority of experts and the literature focus more on political underdevelopment and poor governance; rampant violence, criminality and corruption; non-state service provision by Islamist groups, particularly in education with the expansion of madrassas (religious schools); and the lack of employment and other economic opportunities. Others also highlight dissatisfaction with US/UK foreign policy and struggles with identity.

Investments in poverty reduction in Bangladesh have included a large number of microfinance initiatives. However, microfinance has provoked strong negative reactions by some conservative Islamists, who claim that charging interest and providing women with loans are un-Islamic. In addition, most microfinance programmes in Bangladesh target only the poor or the extreme poor, which does not address the better off segments of society. At a broader level, investments to improve governance and the political dysfunction of Bangladesh are advocated as necessary to promote inclusiveness; and to curb frustrations with unmet expectations and the pull toward radicalisation.

Full response: http://www.gsdrc.org/docs/open/HD499.pdf

Date query received by the Helpdesk: 05 December 2007

Enquirer's contact details:
DFID South Asia Division