Voluntary Associations Alternatives to Dispute Resolution and Maintaining Social Order

Abstract

In state societies, protecting social norms and resolution of conflict are administrated by laws and regulations. Besides, there are different types of nonprofit village voluntary associations that are prominent to maintain social order in a locality. This paper explored  the nature, pattern, and effectiveness of voluntary associations along with an investigation into the socio-economic and cultural  factors behind this phenomenon, specifically, the village of Richi in Habigong district, Bangladesh. The village associations of Richi  have committed members and their dynamic working capacity. Local government personnel and the governing body of voluntary  associations have some understanding of each other in order to negotiate and monitor their activities. Doing this qualitative study,  data were collected through in-depth interviews, KII, and observation methods. Informants are members of voluntary associations  who are serving the social welfare of the villages, and the villagers. The study revealed that these associations participated in multiple  activities including conflict resolution, developmental activities, fundraising for education, and developing the leadership of the village.  Thus the performance of village associations achieved their goals and became awarded an Adorshogram.