At one time, political leaders across the subcontinent earned broad respect for maintaining cordial social and personal relationships, whether in power or opposition. These relationships often facilitated addressing national challenges, as leaders engaged respectfully and worked toward shared solutions. Political disagreements were rarely allowed to devolve into personal hostility. Leaders demonstrated civic maturity by listening to opposing views, respecting differences, and separating political competition from personal relations. This culture of tolerance and mutual respect contributed significantly to political stability and social cohesion.
In contrast, contemporary politics in Bangladesh reflects a worrying decline in civic-minded behaviour and mutual respect. Political discourse has grown increasingly confrontational, with many leaders treating opponents as adversaries rather than democratic counterparts. Recent viral remarks by several Members of Parliament (MPs), widely seen as insensitive or exclusionary, have sparked public concern and debate across social and traditional media. These reactions suggest that public frustration extends beyond isolated comments to a deeper worry about the declining civic sense, tolerance, and respect for diversity among elected representatives. In a pluralistic society marked by religious, cultural, and ideological diversity, these values are essential for social harmony, democratic resilience, and inclusive governance.
Civic sense, globally understood, reflects awareness of social responsibility, respect for others’ rights, and the capacity to act with empathy and consideration. For MPs, civic sense is not merely a personal trait but a professional obligation. As lawmakers, they shape public policy, represent diverse constituencies, and influence national discourse. Their words and actions carry significant weight, often setting the tone for public behaviour. When MPs engage in offensive rhetoric, dismiss alternative views, or use polarising language, they undermine public trust in institutions and deepen social divisions.
Given Bangladesh’s history of political polarisation and social unrest, civic-minded leadership is particularly crucial. MPs are expected to act as role models, promoting dialogue, compromise, and mutual understanding rather than confrontation. A strong sense of civic responsibility ensures parliamentary debates remain constructive and policies are developed inclusively and fairly. Leaders who prioritise the public interest, listen to constituents, and respect dissent are better positioned to mediate conflicts and uphold democratic principles. Such leadership fosters cross-party cooperation, reduces polarisation, and creates space for addressing national challenges effectively.
The absence of civic sense among political leaders carries serious consequences. It fuels public disillusionment, weakens democratic institutions, and encourages divisive politics. When ethical standards are ignored, dissent is dismissed, or governance is driven by narrow partisan interests, citizens lose confidence in democracy itself. In a society where multiple communities coexist, civic sense is indispensable for ensuring inclusion, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
Political leaders also shape societal norms through their behaviour. MPs and ministers serve as public role models, influencing civic culture, public discourse, and ethical standards. By demonstrating empathy, responsibility, and integrity, leaders can reinforce democratic values and strengthen social cohesion. This responsibility is particularly important in Bangladesh, where representatives interact with citizens from diverse religious, ethnic, geographic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Civic-minded leadership nurtures trust, encourages citizen participation, and promotes ethical governance.
Tolerance, a fundamental component of civic sense, lies at the heart of both democratic practice and responsible leadership. It fosters acceptance of diverse opinions, beliefs, and lifestyles without hostility or prejudice. MPs engage daily with people from all walks of life, including Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and citizens across the political spectrum. A lack of tolerance can lead leaders to misunderstand or marginalise significant segments of society, resulting in biased or inequitable governance. Recent controversial statements and the strong public reactions they provoked demonstrate how sensitive citizens are to the words and attitudes of their representatives. Genuine tolerance goes beyond refraining from offensive speech; it requires actively embracing diversity, engaging in patient dialogue, and preventing disagreements from escalating into social conflict. MPs who embody tolerance are better positioned to build consensus, resolve disputes, and implement policies that are fair, inclusive, and representative.
To strengthen civic sense among MPs, political parties must go beyond issuing guidelines and ensure that these principles are actively practiced. This requires systematic education, regular training, and accountability mechanisms that reinforce ethical leadership. Given the influence MPs wield in shaping society, civic sense must be treated as a core requirement of public office.
Key elements of civic-minded leadership include respect for the rule of law, responsibility toward citizens, tolerance and open-mindedness, transparency and accountability in decision-making, integrity and ethical conduct, empathy and social awareness, inclusivity to ensure marginalised voices are heard, effective conflict resolution, responsible public discourse, and a long-term vision focused on sustainable development, social harmony, and national interest.
Civic sense remains essential for Bangladeshi political leaders and ministers, forming the foundation of good governance, public trust, social stability, and a truly inclusive democracy. Without it, both democratic institutions and societal peace are vulnerable. Leaders who exemplify civic values provide a strong model, promoting ethical behaviour, respectful dialogue, and collaborative problem-solving. In a nation as diverse and dynamic as Bangladesh, fostering and institutionalising civic sense, tolerance, and respect for diversity among MPs is not merely desirable – it is essential for a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous future.
The leadership crisis in Bangladesh underscores a critical truth: without strong civic awareness and internalised ethical standards, capable and visionary leaders cannot emerge. Political parties must act as incubators of civic values, ensuring that talent, not lineage or loyalty, defines who leads. Civil society, youth movements, and constitutional institutions also play a vital role in demanding transparency, participation, and ethical behaviour within parties. Ultimately, a nation that empowers its people through civic-minded leadership not only discovers capable leaders but also strengthens democratic culture itself. Without this foundation, Bangladesh risks political stagnation, social polarisation, and governance failures that could threaten its democratic promise. The choice is clear: foster civic sense within leadership to secure democracy, social cohesion, and the country’s enduring prosperity.
The author is a freelancer writer
