What are citizens’ perceptions of the security sector in Bangladesh? What are the lessons for security sector reform? This paper reports results of a public perceptions survey on the police, army, the Rapid Action Battalion, defence parties and border guards. While citizens of Bangladesh feel safer today and crime has declined slightly, a large number of challenges remain that all security providers must address. The Bangladesh police and criminal justice system are in most need of reform; greater links between formal and informal security and justice mechanisms would improve security provision.
This comprehensive 3,000-person household survey was conducted in 2009. It addressed the Bangladesh police, Army, Ansar and Village Defence Parties (Ansar and VDP) and the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR), now known as the Border Guard. Interviews with current and former security sector staff and non-governmental (NGO) experts were also conducted.
The survey produced a picture of the capacity, priorities and needs of each institution. Survey results included the following:
- 61 per cent of respondents thought that crime and injustice had declined over the last year. 93 per cent believe that their area is a safe place to live. 85 per cent would like to see greater police presence in their neighbourhood.
- 98 per cent believe that the Rapid Action Battalion has helped tackle crime and violence and is a necessary support to police.
- 95 per cent have confidence in the army: 97 per cent believe it is well trained and 94 per cent believe it is free from corruption.
- 74 per cent believe it would be easy to get help from Ansar and VDP, compared to 52 per cent for the police. However, Ansar and VDP are perceived to have a limited security role and little authority.
- Non-security sector institutions such as Union Parishads/Ward Commissioners provide informal security and justice. 78 per cent of respondents would contact them if threatened with violence.
- 74 per cent say NGOs are somewhat effective. Respondents cite NGO support for safer neighbourhood schemes, providing legal aid and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
- 58 per cent believe security providers treat everyone equally; those who disagree say the poor suffer most. There is strong demand for greater police-community engagement.
While Bangladesh security has improved recently, the police and criminal justice system are in urgent need of reform. The survey indicates that:
- Police reform should foster a more community-oriented force that interacts more harmoniously with the public.
- International donors should help increase support for police reform among political leaders.
- Lack of access to justice and weaknesses in the formal justice system need to be systematically addressed.
- Rapid security sector action is needed while maintaining principles of human rights and due process.
- Building greater links between formal and informal security and justice mechanisms would improve the security and justice system.
