This paper examines the tense and multilayered relationship of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with Islam and the politics of Islam in Bangladesh. Since Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan in 1971, NGOs have played a crucial role in community development and social welfare initiatives. In their efforts to alleviate poverty and enhance the quality of life, these local organizations, which eventually grew as national and international forces, have devised strong approaches to development, surpassing the government and international agencies. On the other hand, NGOs in Bangladesh have been much criticized because of their dependence on development funds from Western countries and donors as well as upholding Western notions of development and modernity. As such, underlying suspicion and animosity toward these NGOs persist among certain local communities and Islamic organizations. Such sentiments have occasionally resulted in violent incidents targeting NGO personnel. Lately, some Islamic NGOs added a new dimension to the field of development activism, whereas their activities also came under surveillance because of their alleged connections with extremism. This paper provides an overview of the history and development trends of NGOs in Bangladesh while examining the relationship between these organizations and Islamic groups through the analysis of specific conflicts. In particular, this paper analyzes the recurring conflicts and tensions that persist between NGOs and Islamic groups. Additionally, it also explores the activities of Islamic NGOs that have experienced significant growth over recent years. Overall, this paper offers some insights into the complex relationship between NGOs and Islam in Bangladesh and contributes to the understanding of this dynamic in the country's development landscape.

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NGOs and Islam in Bangladesh: Politics of Antagonism?

  • Naonori Kusakabe

摘要

This paper examines the tense and multilayered relationship of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with Islam and the politics of Islam in Bangladesh. Since Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan in 1971, NGOs have played a crucial role in community development and social welfare initiatives. In their efforts to alleviate poverty and enhance the quality of life, these local organizations, which eventually grew as national and international forces, have devised strong approaches to development, surpassing the government and international agencies. On the other hand, NGOs in Bangladesh have been much criticized because of their dependence on development funds from Western countries and donors as well as upholding Western notions of development and modernity. As such, underlying suspicion and animosity toward these NGOs persist among certain local communities and Islamic organizations. Such sentiments have occasionally resulted in violent incidents targeting NGO personnel. Lately, some Islamic NGOs added a new dimension to the field of development activism, whereas their activities also came under surveillance because of their alleged connections with extremism. This paper provides an overview of the history and development trends of NGOs in Bangladesh while examining the relationship between these organizations and Islamic groups through the analysis of specific conflicts. In particular, this paper analyzes the recurring conflicts and tensions that persist between NGOs and Islamic groups. Additionally, it also explores the activities of Islamic NGOs that have experienced significant growth over recent years. Overall, this paper offers some insights into the complex relationship between NGOs and Islam in Bangladesh and contributes to the understanding of this dynamic in the country's development landscape.