Publication

This paper illustrates why a focus on the minimalist criteria of democracy is not sufficient in institutionalizing democracy, commenting on the case of Bangladesh. It examines the various theories of democracy and analyzes Bangladesh's progress toward democratic consolidation using four indicators: the organization of free and fair elections, the establishment of the rule of law, the guarantee of fundamental freedoms and the provision of accountability. Finally, the paper discusses the prospects of institutionalizing democracy in Bangladesh and finds that the country appears to be at the crossroads.