OF Mangroves And Monsters : Womens Political Participation And Womens Studies in Bangladesh

Bangladeshi 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? One could explore and offer explanations by looking through the prism of patriarchy that justifies male omni-presence in politics as in every sphere of life. Alternatively, one could use the lens of women's studies which is informed by feminist thinking that espouses women's equality in all fields of life, including the political. Of Mangroves and Monsters: Women's Political Participation and Women's Studies in Bangladesh is a collection of articles that questions male hegemony in politics, showcases women's vulnerability in public life and critiques the women's movement as it articulates and aggregates women's issues. The prime focus, however, is on women's political representation in the legislature, with mechanisms to preclude or prevent women from entering or advancing in their political flight path. The author's analysis of the phenomenon of women's political subordination and subservience is enriched by her expertise in political science and women's studies. Her experience in dealing with policy issues through her involvement with the women's movement and association with governance, for however brief a period, has also made an impact on the book. The book not only draws out the interfacing that exists between women in politics and women's studies, but also leads towards an understanding of how the built-in discriminations that exist within social institutions and organisations disadvantage girls and women in every sphere and phase of life, at home and in professions, across cultures and class divides.