The Constitution of Bangladesh Search for a Just Society (Hardcover)

This book examines the sense in which the Constitution of Bangladesh can be said to exist, particularly from the perspective of a just society. As we commemorate and honor the 52 years of the Constitution, we explore diverse approaches and analyses of rights, emphasizing how the Constitution can contribute incrementally to fostering a more equitable and just society.
The title of this book, “The Constitution of Bangladesh: Search for a Just Society” draws inspiration from a momentous event—a half-day-long symposium held to honor and commemorate the 50 years of the Constitution of Bangladesh. The symposium titled “Constitution and the Search for a Just Society” convened on November 5, 2022, at the RC Majumdar Arts Auditorium, University of Dhaka, was a collaborative effort between the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) and the Banglar Pathshala Foundation (BPF).
Banglar Pathshala began public discussions centering on the Constitution of Bangladesh in 2011, within two years of its founding, to reinforce and renew Bangladeshi society’s social contract, especially for the youth who were born after 1971. Even those who do not subscribe to the concept of a social contract, we organized a dialogue with some of the important members of the Constitution Committee of 1972 who were still alive. Our partnership with the prestigious organization BLAST, with whom we have collaborated on several issues, culminated in this flagship event. The symposium received an overwhelming response in 2022, marking the Golden Jubilee of our Constitution.
Five decades after independence, new generations have emerged with their values and perspectives, which manifest differently from those of the state established by the senior citizens of the country. The discussions centering on the Constitution could bridge the gap between its citizens and revitalize the social contract to reduce noise in society.
The ongoing economic challenges in Bangladesh appear to stem from efforts to concentrate control over the nation’s resources and mechanisms, leading to the accumulation of wealth and power by a select few. This often involves individuals staying within or near the country until they gather sufficient resources, after which they move to high-income nations. Shortcomings in governance and management have resulted in a system that many perceive as unjust, given the diverse expectations of its people.
Nevertheless, our Constitution continues to uphold the fundamental principle that “all powers in the Republic belong to the people,” highlighting the importance of striving for a just and equitable system.