Bangladesh has a large population and one-third of it is the youth whose participation in community development activities is crucial for overall development of the country. This study explores youth attitudes and active participation in community development activities by using the Community Development Participation Scale (CDPS). Participants showed positive attitudes toward community development activities but demonstrate a slightly lower level of active participation. Attitude toward community development activities emerged as the strongest predictor of active participation. Participation also varied across youth gender and place of residence. Female and urban youth participation was comparatively lower than that of their male and rural counterparts. Youth participation in community development is hindered by various socioeconomic and political barriers. This study recommends providing adequate resources, skill development training, and youth inclusion in the policymaking process to enhance youth contributions to community development in Bangladesh.
Akter et al. (Mon,) studied this question.