Draft e-participation policy framework unveiled to boost citizen engagement
In his welcome remarks, Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, additional secretary of the ICT Division, said the initiative aligns with the government’s broader digital transformation agenda.
The Media and Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) has unveiled the draft Bangladesh E-Participation Policy Framework to strengthen citizens' involvement in government policymaking through digital platforms.
The MRDI formally handed over the proposed framework to Shish Haider Chowdhury, secretary, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division, at an event held at the Bangladesh Computer Council auditorium today (27 November).
In his welcome remarks, Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, additional secretary of the ICT Division, said the initiative aligns with the government's broader digital transformation agenda.
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MRDI Executive Director Hasibur Rahman said the framework reflects the aspirations and recommendations gathered from consultations and can significantly contribute to building a more responsive public service system.
Presenting the draft framework, Anannya Raihan, chairperson of iSocial, noted Bangladesh's rapid digital penetration, pointing out that 91% of the population now uses mobile phones, with near-equal adoption in both rural and urban areas. This widespread access, he said, provides a solid foundation for enabling citizens to engage more directly in policy discussions and government initiatives.
Among the special guests were Md Daud Mia, director general of the NGO Affairs Bureau; Md Mahmudul Hossain Khan, secretary (in charge) of the Chief Adviser's Office.
Speaking at the event, Mahmudul Hossain Khan said digitalisation is reshaping governance worldwide, adding, "Expanding e-participation will reduce the need for physical presence and help curb corruption."
Shish Haydar Chowdhury highlighted the country's rapid technological progress, recalling how households once relied on lanterns. "Today, nearly everyone carries a mobile phone even in informal settlements. Some slum households now have laptops. We have to continue advancing digitalisation," he said.
The programme was presided over by Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury.
