Human Rights Practiced and Community Development Approaches for Stranded Biharis in Bangladesh: A Study in Dhaka City

Abstract

(Background)The Urdu-speaking Bihari community in Bangladesh emerged from forced migration during the 1947 Partition and subsequent displacement after the 1971 Liberation War. Although this is partly legalized, they still suffer socio-economic marginalization, stateless-like status, and restricted rights access, especially in the city of Dhaka in urban camp settlements. (Objectives) This study aims to examine the status of human rights practices and evaluate the effectiveness of community development approaches among stranded Biharis in Dhaka. It examines the socio-economic conditions, presents the main human rights issues, evaluates the existence of already implemented interventions and suggests the policy recommendations to improve the outcomes of inclusion, guaranteeing of human rights and sustainable development. (Methodology) The study adopts a qualitative exploratory case study design focusing on Geneva Camp and Kalshi Camp in Dhaka. Using purposive and snowball sampling, data were gathered via case studies (12), Focus Group Discussions (04) and Key Informant Interviews (06). NVivo was employed to analyze the data based on thematic analysis to document lived experiences and trends in issues related to rights and development. (Findings)The findings reveal that the stranded Bihari community continues to face multidimensional deprivation shaped by historical marginalization and structural exclusion. In socio-demographic terms the population represents a gradual shift in generations with younger generations being more occupied in education and livelihoods but limited by poverty, early marriage, and high dependency rates. Livelihoods are still economically stable with livelihoods centering around low-paid livelihoods, which are informal and lack an upward mobility ladder. In terms of human rights, partial progress XI 8 is evident in citizenship recognition and access to identity documentation, especially among younger individuals. Nevertheless, there are still gaps in accessing education, medical care, shelter, and social protection services because of the monetary constraints, bureaucracy, and societal prejudices. Poor health and environmental risks are further enhanced by overpopulated dwellings, poor facilities and insecure tenure. The major problems involve low access to the formal jobs, the institutions which lack efficiency and effectiveness, social stigma and poor political representation. Community development programs such as skills training, microfinance, and education programs are not sufficiently effective because they lack coverage, poor coordination and structural constraints. Although there are improvements, especially in regards to awareness and access to services, these interventions have not produced sustainable and large-scale transformation in the community. (Conclusion)The study concludes that despite incremental progress, significant gaps remain between legal recognition and actual rights realization for the Bihari community. To counter these issues, there is need to integrate the inclusive, rights-based policies, service delivery and coordination of development to achieve sustainable integration, social equity and the promotion of improved well-being among this poor urban group