Conceptualizing the role of social accountability in public service delivery:a comparative study of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan

This chapter explores the effectiveness of social accountability initiatives in improving public service delivery in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Drawing upon relevant and contemporary literature, a conceptual model is developed in order to assess and compare the current state of social accountability in these three South Asian countries. The findings reveal that the effectiveness of social accountability initiatives for improving public service delivery depends on the synergy between demand and supply-driven mechanisms. There is also considerable impact of the political climate, the strength of civic groups and the appropriate institutional sphere on the outcomes of social accountability intervention