Background and Problem Statement

The Right to Information (RTI) Act is a fundamental law that empowers citizens to access essential public information, ensuring transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making in a democratic society. In Bangladesh, the RTI Act was passed in 2009 with the aim of strengthening governance by making public institutions more transparent and responsive. However, despite its legal framework, many marginalized communities, especially in rural areas such as Kushtia district, face significant challenges in fully utilizing the RTI Act.

The primary barriers include a lack of awareness about the RTI Act, bureaucratic resistance, and systemic obstacles within public institutions. These challenges are especially pronounced among vulnerable groups like women, Dalits, Harijans, and indigenous communities, who often face compounded socio-economic disadvantages, limited literacy, and social exclusion. As a result, they remain unaware of their rights and struggle to navigate the bureaucratic processes required to obtain crucial information such as government welfare schemes, healthcare services, and educational opportunities.

In many cases, public institutions delay or refuse to provide information, undermining the RTI Act’s effectiveness. Additionally, citizens face intimidation, discriminatory behavior, and distrust from authorities, further discouraging engagement with the system.

Under the project titled “Empowering Marginalized Communities through the RTI Act in Bangladesh,” FAIR has taken a proactive initiative to bridge the gap between the Right to Information (RTI) Act and marginalized populations in Kushtia district. By raising awareness, building capacity, and facilitating access to information, FAIR aims to ensure that vulnerable communities—such as women, Dalits, Harijans, and indigenous groups—can effectively exercise their right to information. This initiative not only strengthens democratic participation but also promotes transparency, equity, and accountable governance at the grassroots level.

Rationale

This project is based on the recognition that the Right to Information (RTI) is a powerful tool for citizens, particularly marginalized groups, to hold public institutions accountable. To make the RTI Act effective, citizens must not only be aware of their rights but also equipped with the knowledge and support to exercise them. FAIR is implementing this initiative to bridge that gap by providing education, guidance, and legal support to communities in Kushtia, enabling them to navigate the RTI process and demand accountability from public institutions. Through this effort, FAIR aims to empower disadvantaged populations to actively participate in democratic governance and access essential public services.

Objective of the Project

The primary objectives of this project are:

1. Promote the Right to Information (RTI) Act: Raise awareness and empower marginalized communities in Kushtia to effectively utilize the RTI Act.
2. Create a Transparent Environment in Government Institutions: Foster a culture of transparency and accountability in public institutions to ensure they are responsive to citizens’ RTI requests.

Key Activities and Implementation Strategies

To achieve these objectives, the project will implement the following key activities:

1. Community Mobilization and Awareness Raising

• Organize local gatherings, public outreach events, and educational workshops to inform citizens about their rights under the RTI Act.
• Focus on marginalized groups, especially Dalits, Harijans, and indigenous communities, ensuring they understand their rights.
• Highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance.

2. Training Workshops

• Organize comprehensive training sessions to equip citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to file RTI requests and navigate the bureaucracy.
• Provide easy-to-understand materials and tools to simplify the RTI process.

3. RTI Observation Days

• Organize RTI awareness days to commemorate the implementation of the RTI Act and educate the public about its contribution to enhancing transparency.
• Use these events to share success stories and encourage greater community participation.

4. Assistance in Seeking Information Under the RTI Act

• Provide direct support to community members in filing RTI requests, following up on responses, and lodging appeals when necessary.
• Help marginalized groups navigate the complex bureaucratic processes involved in seeking information.

Project Outcomes and Impact

Expected Outputs

• Increased RTI Awareness: Through awareness campaigns and training workshops, the project will ensure that at least 70% of the targeted community members in Kushtia are aware of their right to request information under the RTI Act.
• Effective Use of RTI: The project will facilitate the filing of over 500 RTI requests by marginalized individuals, focusing on access to government welfare schemes, healthcare services, education, and land rights.
• Improved Government Accountability: As more citizens use the RTI Act, local government institutions will be more likely to adopt transparent practices and provide timely responses.
• Increased Citizen Participation: Empowering marginalized communities will encourage greater civic engagement and participation in local governance.

Long-Term Impact

• Strengthened Democracy: Empowering marginalized communities to access information and hold authorities accountable will contribute to strengthening democratic processes.
• Improved Governance: Increased transparency will lead to better decision-making and more efficient service delivery in social welfare and development programs.
• Social Empowerment: The project will empower marginalized groups, particularly Dalits, Harijans, and indigenous populations, enabling them to advocate for their rights and improve their socio-economic conditions.

Project Implementation Strategy

The project will be implemented by FAIR (Friends Association for Integration Revolution) with the goal of raising awareness, providing education, and supporting the marginalized communities in Kushtia. The project will leverage local networks, work closely with public authorities, and ensure that the process is inclusive and accessible to all.

Challenges Faced

• Lack of Awareness: Many rural citizens, especially in marginalized groups, are unaware of the RTI Act.
• Resistance from Public Authorities: Bureaucratic resistance to providing information remains a challenge.
• Bureaucratic Barriers: Navigating the RTI filing process can be complex and intimidating.
• Social Exclusion: Marginalized communities encounter extra challenges arising from societal bias and prejudice.

Lessons Learned and Recommendations

• Increase Local Engagement: Mobilizing local leaders and community influencers can improve awareness and engagement.
• Legal Support is Crucial: Providing legal guidance and assistance helps individuals overcome bureaucratic hurdles.
• Institutional Cooperation: Building trust with public institutions is key to overcoming resistance.

Conclusion and Future Directions

This project highlights the effectiveness of the Right to Information (RTI) Act in fostering transparency, enhancing accountability, and empowering citizens. By helping marginalized communities in Kushtia access essential information, we contribute to strengthening democratic processes and improving governance.

Future Directions:

• Expansion to Other Districts: The project will expand to additional districts in Bangladesh to further empower marginalized communities.
• Continued Advocacy: Advocacy for better implementation of the RTI Act will continue at the national level.
• Partnerships with Government Bodies: Collaboration with government agencies to improve the RTI process will be prioritized.

Call-to-Action

Join our journey in promoting transparency and accountability. Contact us to learn more about how you can contribute to empowering marginalized communities through the Right to Information Act.