Social Inclusivity in Security Governance: the Case of Community Policing in Bangladesh

Abstract

This paper aims to examine the dynamics of social inclusivity of the local people in the civil security governance of Bangladesh with a particular reference to the functions of community policing in the urban areas of the state. The broader framework of the sdg 16 informs the conceptual analysis of this paper – promoting peaceful and inclusive societies in establishing local ownership and an inclusive and improved security situation through community policing in Bangladesh. The empirical discussions in this paper include the findings of in-depth interviews with the civilian members of the community policing forums and members of the local police stations. The discussion aims to highlight – how and in what ways the community policing system, both forums and officers in police stations, has adopted an inclusive framework to ensure the participation of local community citizens. Furthermore, the discussion also highlights the challenges of including locals and civil society organisations in the security governance of the state. Finally, this paper argues that political patronage is a critical factor obstructing social inclusivity in the community policing system.