AID-COMILLA implements project on Corruption Prevention in association District and Upazila Corruption Prevention Committee,  in Comilla with funding support from German Technical Cooperation-GIZ Bangladesh

Corruption has long been recognized as a major barrier to governance and development in Bangladesh. Numerous scholars and institutions have explored its causes, manifestations, and preventive measures. According to Transparency International (2023), Bangladesh consistently ranks among the countries struggling with high perceived levels of corruption, particularly in public administration, procurement, and service delivery.

The establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in 2004 marked a significant institutional attempt to combat corruption. Literature suggests that while the ACC has investigated numerous cases and raised public awareness, its effectiveness has often been hampered by political influence, limited resources, and procedural delays (Haque, 2019; Rahman, 2021). Studies indicate that strengthening institutional independence and capacity is crucial for the ACC to function effectively.

Legal frameworks form another pillar of corruption prevention. The Penal Code, 1860, the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the Public Procurement Act, 2006, collectively criminalize bribery, embezzlement, and misuse of public office. Research by Chowdhury (2020) notes that despite the presence of these laws, enforcement remains weak, and prosecution is often delayed due to overburdened courts and complex bureaucratic procedures.

Technological interventions have increasingly been highlighted in the literature as effective anti-corruption measures. E-governance initiatives, including online tax filing, digital land records, and online passport services, have reduced direct interaction between citizens and officials, thereby limiting opportunities for petty corruption (Ahmed, 2018; Karim, 2022). Scholars argue that expanding digital platforms and transparency portals can substantially improve accountability in public service delivery.

The role of civil society and media in corruption prevention is also well-documented. NGOs, journalists, and citizen groups act as watchdogs, exposing irregularities and advocating for greater transparency (Hossain, 2017). Social accountability mechanisms, such as citizen charters, hotlines, and public hearings, have been effective in monitoring government activities and ensuring responsiveness.

Despite these measures, corruption persists due to socio-political and cultural factors. Studies highlight the normalization of small-scale informal payments, political interference in anti-corruption bodies, and limited civic engagement as persistent challenges (Rahman, 2021; Chowdhury, 2020). Consequently, literature emphasizes a multi-dimensional approach: legal enforcement, institutional strengthening, technological adoption, civic participation, and political commitment are all essential to achieving meaningful corruption prevention.

In conclusion, the body of literature on corruption prevention in Bangladesh suggests that while progress has been made, persistent challenges remain. Scholars advocate for enhancing institutional independence, expanding e-governance, promoting civic vigilance, and fostering a culture of integrity as key strategies to reduce corruption and strengthen governance.