Dr Nurul Huda Sakib
Dr Nurul Huda Sakib is serving as a professor at the Department of Government and Politics, Jahangirnagar University.
DOI: http://DOI Number
Keywords: National Integrity System, anti-corruption, corruption, Bangladesh, strategic response
Abstract
This study examines Bangladesh’s National Integrity Strategy (NI-Strategy) and contends that its reliance on institutional isomorphism fails to effectively address corruption. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative data from a national survey and qualitative insights from interviews with key stakeholder informants. This allows for a comprehensive analysis, ensuring data triangulation to establish the strength and validity of the study’s findings. The study demonstrates that the NI-Strategy mainly failed due to structural problems, such as weak institutional capacity, lack of coordination, little mutual reinforcement and manpower shortage. Results from two surveys found that all major institutions were very weak and lacked capacity. The study identified the agency problem, developed as a strategic response to international pressure on Bangladesh by policy makers. The policy makers enacted this reponse to satisfy international donors and procedural requirements. The study also suggests that most of the strategy’s components are fragile, with Bangladesh lacking the capacity to effectively combat corruption using this framework.
First Published
July 25, 2025
How to Cite
Nurul Huda Sakib, “Who to Blame for Blurred National Integrity Strategy to Prevent Corruption in Bangladesh: Structure or Agency?,” Regional Studies 43, no.1 (Summer 2025): 3-33, https://regionalstudies.com.pk/wp/article/who-to-blame-for-blurred-national-integrity-strategy-to-prevent-corruption-in-bangladesh-structure-or-agency/.
Issue
Volume 43, Issue 1