"Crime in Bangladesh: Juvenile Gangs and Societal Impact"

Abstract

Juvenile gang activities have become a growing concern in urban areas worldwide, including in Bangladesh, where they pose a significant threat to community safety and social cohesion. Despite global efforts to address youth crime, the specific socio-economic and cultural contexts of Bangladesh present unique challenges. The prevalence of juvenile gangs in urban areas like Dhaka and Chattogram has been linked to factors such as poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and the breakdown of family structures. However, existing research on effective intervention strategies to combat juvenile gang activities in Bangladesh remains limited. This thesis aims to fill this gap by identifying and evaluating effective intervention strategies tailored to the Bangladeshi context. The specific objectives are to understand the prevalence, causes, and impacts of juvenile gang activities in urban areas and to propose targeted, sustainable interventions that can mitigate these challenges. The thesis employs a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews and content analysis of secondary data from prominent Bangladeshi newspapers, Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, to gather insights from various stakeholders, including gang members, community leaders, and law enforcement officials. The findings reveal that socio-economic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education are the primary drivers of gang involvement among youth. Additional contributing factors include the breakdown of family structures and inadequate community support. The thesis identifies several key themes, including motivations for joining gangs, personal and familial consequences, and effective intervention strategies, such as educational opportunities, vocational training, family support services, and community policing. The thesis recommends a multi-faceted approach, combining enhanced educational and vocational opportunities, strengthened family support systems, increased community engagement, improved law enforcement collaboration, and ongoing evaluation and adaptation of programs. By addressing the root causes of juvenile delinquency and fostering a supportive community environment, the study provides a foundation for policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to develop targeted interventions. This research encourages future studies to build on these findings and explore additional strategies for mitigating the impact of juvenile gangs, promoting safer communities, and ensuring a more resilient societal framework in Bangladesh.