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The Union Council, or Parishad, is the smallest unit of local government in rural Bangladesh. It plays a crucial role in serving communities, often dealing with everything from issuing birth and death certificates to managing local crises, particularly those linked to climate change. Each council has one chairperson, nine elected members, and three reserved seats for women, promoting inclusivity.

Bangladesh is notably vulnerable to climate change. A recent World Bank report (2022) estimates that tropical cyclones alone cost the country around $1 billion annually and threaten up to a third of its agricultural GDP. This makes local governance vital, as the Union Council is often the first line of defense during disasters.

Local governments can be instrumental in addressing climate issues in several ways, according to the Pew Centre on Global Climate Change. They can invest in green energy, improve efficiency, plant trees, enhance transportation, and educate communities about climate risks. Local wisdom and long-term observations make these councils essential in tackling such challenges.

Bangladesh has supportive laws that empower local councils to address climate change. The Union Parishad Act of 2009 encourages community participation in local planning, focusing on environmental and developmental measures. Each council holds ward meetings twice a year, providing a platform for residents to discuss development needs and climate initiatives.

Despite the legal framework, real implementation is often lacking. As noted by a deputy director in local government, meetings are frequently held less often than required, and decision-making can be dominated by the chairperson. While committees exist to address environmental issues, many do not meet regularly.

To improve effectiveness, a streamlined approach to committees is suggested. Reducing the number from thirteen to around five would minimize overlap and ease financial pressures. Prioritizing community involvement in project selection and ensuring budgets align with local needs can enhance grassroots participation. For instance, in Porto Alegre, Brazil, local communities have more control over budgeting, allowing for tailored development that meets their unique challenges.

Proposals for future action include ensuring sustainable budget allocations for environmental projects and mandating long-term planning. Continuous evaluation of these initiatives through real-time data can keep local councils accountable and responsive. Moreover, councils could lead environmental efforts, like tree planting or improving water bodies, which could make a significant difference in combating climate change at the community level.

The potential for Union Councils to transform local governance and champion environmental initiatives is significant. By harnessing community engagement and effective planning, these councils can much better address the pressing challenges posed by climate change in rural Bangladesh.

Writer: Mohammad Yusuf Ali, Deputy Secretary, Government of Bangladesh

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