Project objective:
To strengthen the institution of democratic local government in Bangladesh, by demonstrating to policymakers that stronger Union Parishads, working in partnership with a mobilized, active citizenry, can accelerate the achievement of the MDGs.

Expected outcomes:
1.The capacity of the UP representatives and functionaries strengthened and the knowledge of rights, entitlements and responsibilities of public and youth developed for improving democratic local governance, and active citizenry.

2.The local civil society, especially women, are empowered for increasing their participation in public space, demanding transparency and accountability and, taking action to reduce violence against women and the achievements of MDGs.

3.Experiences and lessons learned regarding the difference that stronger Union Parishads and regular Ward Shavas can make in development are expansively covered in media to influence public opinion and policy actors.