JBS Vol 05. Num 2. 2003 - BANGLADESH POVERTY: THE NEED FOR A "BIG PUSH"

Bangladesh has agreed to meet certain poverty reduction targets by 2005, involving both the economic and social
aspects of poverty. The prospects for meeting these targets are examined. It is shown that the social goals are on
their way to being met, but the chances of reaching the income poverty targets with current policies are slim. The
long-run growth rate must be raised and this requires focusing upon the long-run, and upon economics, narrowly
considered, to a much greater extent than is currently done. Export-led growth will not be adequate.
Entrepreneurship and infrastructures will have key roles to play, as will family planning. Simple but far-reaching
institutional changes, such as computerizing land records are needed. Poverty reduction requires a return to income
growth as the primary object of policy.