11. Can Citizen’s Charter be Effectively Implemented at the Office of Deputy Commissioner in Bangladesh?
Synopsis
Public institutions play a crucial role in safeguarding the foundations of modern democracy; and any potential deterioration or collapse of these institutions is a cause for grave concern (Newton & Norris, 1999). Establishing public confidence is an absolute necessity for service providers. Establishing trust in governing bodies, such as local government institutions, facilitates their operationalisation in accordance with the principles of the rule of law (Jamil & Askvik, 2016). To effectively address the complexities resulting from globalisation, economic growth, and democratisation, public institutions must prioritise establishing trustworthy relationships with various social actors and the general populace. The acquisition of legitimacy and the formation of partnerships are indispensable components for facilitating the efficient execution of public policies, especially in the provision of essential services. Local government institutions in Bangladesh, such as district administration, play a crucial role in delivering essential services to local communities (Faguet & Ali, 2007). In developing nations such as Bangladesh, where a sizeable portion of the population faces challenges associated with illiteracy and poverty, enhancing the provision of public services is of utmost importance. One of the primary responsibilities of the government is to provide a variety of services to residents of remote and peripheral regions. Local service delivery in Bangladesh is characterised by a high degree of centralisation and is governed by an extensive administrative structure (UNCDF, 2004; Siddiqui, 2005).