Fighting Corruption at the Grassroots

Published: 03 February 2025

In an unprecedented display of civic engagement, over 3,000 concerned citizens across 24 districts of Bangladesh have united in a powerful grassroots movement against corruption. From September to December 2024, a series of Learning Sharing Meetings organized by the TIB's Committees of Concerned Citizens (CCCs) in their fight for transparency and good governance.

The wave of anti-corruption activism swept from the coastal district of Barguna to the hilly terrains of Rangamati, touching lives in Jashore, Cumilla, Chakaria, Khulna, Lakshmipur, Pirojpur, Jhenaidah, Bagerhat, Patuakhali, Chandpur, Jhalkathi, Khagrachari, Satkhira, Kushtia, Brahmanbaria, Faridpur, Nilphamari, Bogura, Dinajpur, Rajbari, Jamalpur, and Madhupur. Each gathering brought together members of CCCs, Youth Engagement and Support (YES) groups, and Active Citizen Groups (ACGs) in a unified stand against corruption.

The meetings went beyond mere discussions, featuring intensive group work sessions where participants identified challenges and crafted strategies for strengthening anti-corruption efforts at the local level. Notable initiatives included monitoring public services, promoting transparency in institutions, and engaging youth in governance oversight. The initiative has particularly emphasized youth engagement, recognizing them as crucial agents of change. As observed by several speakers, "The country's next generation of hope is the youth," highlighting the movement's focus on nurturing the next generation of anti-corruption advocates.

"If we want to change the country radically, then the change of individual's spirit is a must," emphasized one CCC President, capturing the essence of this grassroots movement. This sentiment echoed across all meetings, where participants not only shared their experiences but also took solemn anti-corruption oaths. At one gathering where over 170 members participated, the enthusiasm was particularly evident. Similar energy was visible at another location, where TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman reminded participants that, "while working against corruption might displease some, the movement must continue"!

These 'Learning and Sharing Meetings' encourage youth to speak up and take a stand against corruption. Furthermore to enable them to become active citizens by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills. As these meetings conclude, they leave behind not just promises but a strengthened network of vigilant citizens committed to fostering transparency and accountability in Bangladesh's public services. They are demonstrating that grassroots movements can indeed be powerful catalysts for social movements against corruption.