Of Mangroves and Monsters : Women’s Political Participation and Women’s Studies in Bangladesh

Bangladesh women are far removed from statecraft in terms of representation and participation in political institutions and policy-making bodies. Their engagement with state power and involvement in politics generally tend to be peripheral and marginalized. Paradoxically, two women have ruled the country as heads of government for the past two decades. What are the reasons for this paradox? What are the causes responsible for the disjunction that exists between state power and women? Why is politics in Bangladesh so barren of women and women’s issues?