Oligarchy as a constraint to development

Abstract

Prof. Dr. M. Azizur Rahman defines an oligarchy as a small, powerful group—often a mix of politicians, civil bureaucrats, military personnel, or business elites—that manages a country primarily for their own self-interest. He argues that in many developing nations, these groups form "marriages of convenience" to create a societal oligarchy that undermines democratic principles. This structure interrupts the "two-way communication" between public demand and government contribution, as bureaucrats and politicians prioritize the interests of lobbying groups (such as powerful industrial associations) over the common people. Consequently, the general population is neglected, social benefits are not maximized, and the oligarchy acts as a significant constraint to improving the Human Development Index (HDI).