Bangladesh’s ethnic minorities are underrepresented at all levels of society and government. This is particularly true for plainland ethnic groups, which predominately reside in the northern divisions of the country.
To better understand this community’s needs, the International Republican Institute (IRI) has conducted a focus group study of Bangladesh’s plainland ethnic groups. The study reveals the priorities of four plainland sects including the Santals, Garos, Khasis and Manipuris across the Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh and Sylhet districts.
This report is part of a three-part study, funded by the U.S. Department of State, on the needs of marginalized communities in Bangladesh. The study includes Biharis, plainland ethnic groups and LGBTI people. This research advances IRI’s goal to promote the inclusion of historically marginalized communities in political discussion and policy decision-making in Bangladesh. In-depth research on community needs is essential for evidence-based advocacy for policy change.
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