Mobilisierung von Armen: Stabilisierung oder Transformation des Status quo? Chancen und Grenzen eines Armutsorientierten Entwicklungskonzeptes im ländlichen Bangladesh

Abstract This article, based on field research in several Bangladesh villages, examines the chances and limitations of a poverty-oriented development strategy mainly based on mobilising the rural poor. The main elements of this approach, viz. consciousness-raising programmes, income-generating and credit schemes as well as group formation, are mainly being carried out by Bangladeshi Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) funded by Western development- and aid institutions. Regarded by many theorists and practitioners as the first approach putting the poorest landless peasants and agricultural labourers first, it raises hopes as to its potential for fundamentally changing the power structure. The article highlights the mobilisation programmes of two different NGOs, the main characteristics of the landless groups concerned and the socio-economic changes in the project areas. Conclusions are drawn with regard to the emancipatory quality of the approach, its main constraints and its potential for transforming traditional power relations.