Citizen Groups (CGs) under the Nagorikata: Civic Engagement Fund (CEF) programme have continued their quarterly engagement in Sunamganj, with discussions focused on citizen participation, community collaboration and access to public services.
Nagorikata’s programme titled “Achieving a Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Society through Enhanced Engagement of Civil Society and Citizens in Bangladesh” seeks to empower citizens and civil society to participate more actively in local governance and social development.
The Nagorikata Programme is jointly supported by the Embassy of Switzerland, Global Affairs Canada (GAC), and the European Union facilitated by GFA Consulting Group, and implemented by CPD.
In Sunamganj, the quarterly meetings focused on strengthening understanding of the role and objectives of Citizen Groups and encouraging active participation in local governance. Discussions covered the Nagorikata programme, the responsibilities of Citizen Group members, participation in social audits and ways of increasing citizens’ access to government services.
Citizen Group members discussed how local people could be more effectively involved in identifying service delivery challenges and communicating their experiences, opinions and recommendations to public officials and policymakers. The meetings emphasised involving local people in social audit processes, compiling community feedback and increasing opportunities for citizens to access government services.
The discussions also reinforced the importance of regular participation, collective responsibility and community collaboration. Citizen Group members reviewed their role in mobilising local communities, raising awareness and helping create stronger linkages between citizens and local institutions.
Across the district, the quarterly meeting process has served as a forum for citizens to share experiences, review progress and identify areas requiring further attention. The meetings have also supported a clearer understanding among Citizen Group members of how collective engagement can contribute to more inclusive governance and improved service delivery.
Through continued quarterly engagement, Citizen Groups in Sunamganj are working to strengthen citizen awareness, promote participation in local decision-making and create more regular channels of communication between communities and public institutions.
