This project drew on information and communication technologies (ICTs) to foster participation in the political process. The current affairs debates were broadcast on the BBC Bengali Service and Channel I satellite television, but video vans helped expose broader numbers of Bangladesh voters to the issues through large outdoor screens. The idea is that watching debates can provide insight into the thinking and decision-making of politicians, and is fostered by the technology used (in areas where there is little print media, and electricity shortages limit access to radio and television).

Democracy and Governance.

Since October 2006, there has been political upheaval in Bangladesh, when violent protests erupted over the choice of interim government in the run-up to the forthcoming elections. A state of emergency was declared in January 2007, when nationwide elections, due to be held on January 22, were cancelled.

In the first week of the pilot programme, over 40,000 people watched the 'Bangladesh Sanglap' debates. The video van pilot attracted over 184,000 people from rural areas; the first series attracted audiences of over 5 million people. As of this writing, the programme has reached more than 17 million people via radio and television. Research conducted after the first series found that 92% of those surveyed felt that the programme had provided an opportunity for the voice of the people, particularly deprived sections of society, to be heard. 78% felt that the programmes contributed to transparency and accountability.

"We didn't know that people like me could ask politicians questions like this. We are brave enough to ask questions but we didn't have any platform." ~ Housewife from Bheramara, Kustia