Unlocking Potential

The resource mobilisation practices of Union Parishads (UPs) in Bangladesh have been discussed in this chapter. The process begins with a look at the level of awareness of UP officials regarding resource mobilisation endeavours, pointing out that although they are generally aware, their actual undertakings are often less. After this, the chapter assesses the alleged effectiveness of various existing projects. It highlights the mixed results, with certain initiatives having achieved modest success, while others have proven particularly inefficient. Essentially, the evaluation of effectiveness in producing adequate revenues is focused on UP functionaries. The results not only show deficiencies in administrative capability but also deficient revenue-collection systems. According to most service receivers, revenues are inadequate, while the reverse is true for the service providers. It can therefore be said that there is a disconnect. Moreover, the discussed issue of service delivery constraints due to resource limitations, both of which impact the delivery of essential services. In addition, the chapter examines the accountability and transparency in the management of resources. Here, UP officials score themselves highly, but the citizens do not trust their system completely. The chapter concludes by examining the mixed success of the cooperation between UPs and other government agencies. The findings present a complete view of the strengths and weaknesses of current resource mobilisation methods.