Reducing horizontal inequalities

Bangladesh has achieved remarkable economic growth over the past few decades. While these positive statistics reflect the country's achievements, a persistent issue continues to receive insufficient attention-horizontal inequality. This concept refers to disparities or unequal access to opportunities among different social, regional, or gender groups.

In Bangladesh, the gap between rural and urban areas is a clear example of horizontal inequality. Urban regions generally provide better education, employment opportunities, and standards of living, whereas rural areas continue to struggle with limited infrastructure, inadequate education, insufficient well-being, and restricted access to resources. Gender and family background further shape access to opportunities. Women in urban areas often have greater freedom to pursue higher education or diverse careers, while women in rural areas still face social restrictions, fewer educational prospects, and limited employment options. Similarly, men from poorer families face disadvantages due to lack of access to quality education and career opportunities, which directly affects their competitiveness in the job market.

These inequalities often drive rural communities to migrate to cities in search of better opportunities, placing enormous pressure on urban infrastructure and resources. Addressing horizontal inequality must therefore be a priority to achieve long-term, sustainable, and inclusive development.

Inclusive economic growth can only be meaningful if opportunities are distributed fairly across all groups in society. Bangladesh's economic success should ultimately be measured not only by growth statistics but by how equitably opportunities are provided, ensuring that every individual, regardless of location, gender, or background, can participate in the nation's progress.

Kashfea Mehreen

Student, North South University (NSU)