The Absence of Civics Sense in South Asia

Why Their Is Absence of Civics Sense in South Asia

Civics sense, often synonymous with public responsibility and social etiquette, is a cornerstone of a functioning society. It encompasses respect for public spaces, adherence to laws, and consideration for the community. While countries in East Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, have set exemplary standards of civic consciousness, nations in South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, continue to grapple with a severe lack of civics sense. This disparity raises a critical question: why is the state of civic responsibility so dire in these countries despite their shared aspirations for progress?

The reasons for this deficiency are multifaceted and deeply rooted in the socio-economic, political, and cultural fabric of these nations. A glaring factor is the weak enforcement of laws. In India, for instance, over 63% of urban citizens report that they have seen laws regarding littering and waste management being flouted without consequence, according to a study by the Centre for Science and Environment. Similarly, in Pakistan, traffic violations are rampant, with 70% of road accidents attributed to human error, often due to reckless driving and disregard for rules, as per the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.

Another contributing factor is inadequate education. In many South Asian countries, civics education is either absent or given minimal importance in school curriculums. According to UNESCO, only 36% of students in India and 24% in Bangladesh reported learning about civic responsibilities during their schooling. This lack of awareness perpetuates ignorance about the importance of respecting public spaces, obeying traffic rules, and maintaining environmental hygiene.

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Economic disparity and poverty further exacerbate the problem. In countries like Bangladesh, where nearly 24% of the population lives below the poverty line (World Bank, 2023), survival takes precedence over societal considerations. When basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare are not met, expecting individuals to prioritize civic duties becomes unrealistic. In urban slums of Karachi, for example, the absence of proper waste disposal systems forces residents to dispose of garbage on streets, leading to unsanitary conditions and health risks.

Cultural attitudes also play a significant role. In Sri Lanka, traditional communal practices often conflict with modern notions of civic responsibility. For example, while collective celebrations are common, they frequently result in the misuse of public spaces and resources. In India, religious festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga Puja often leave rivers and streets littered with waste, highlighting the tension between cultural traditions and civic duties.

Governance failures compound these issues. Corruption and bureaucratic inefficiency in South Asia undermine efforts to improve civic infrastructure. According to Transparency International, India ranks 85th, Pakistan 140th, Sri Lanka 101st, and Bangladesh 147th out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index 2023. Inadequate funding for public services, coupled with mismanagement, results in poorly maintained roads, insufficient waste management systems, and overcrowded public transport.

Public apathy is another critical factor. Many citizens in South Asia view civic responsibilities as the government’s sole domain. This mindset is reflected in the fact that only 15% of urban residents in India participate in community clean-up drives, as per a survey by Swachh Bharat Mission. In Pakistan, less than 10% of the population engages in volunteer activities aimed at improving public spaces, according to the Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement survey.

The contrast with East Asia is stark. In Japan, civics sense is ingrained in the culture from an early age. Schoolchildren are taught to clean their classrooms and public spaces, fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for their surroundings. Similarly, in Singapore, strict enforcement of laws, such as heavy fines for littering and vandalism, ensures high standards of public behavior. South Korea’s success can be attributed to its comprehensive education system, which emphasizes moral and civic education alongside academic excellence.

While the challenges in South Asia are daunting, they are not insurmountable. Addressing the lack of civics sense requires a multi-pronged approach. Education reform is paramount. Introducing compulsory civics education in schools can instill awareness and responsibility from a young age. Public awareness campaigns, such as India's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, have shown promise but need to be sustained and scaled up to achieve lasting impact.

Strengthening governance is equally crucial. Transparent and accountable institutions can ensure efficient implementation of policies aimed at improving public services and infrastructure. For instance, the success of the Indore Municipal Corporation in maintaining the city’s status as India’s cleanest city for six consecutive years demonstrates the potential of good governance combined with active citizen participation.

Encouraging community engagement is another vital step. Grassroots initiatives, such as neighborhood clean-up drives and community policing, can foster a sense of ownership among citizens. In Dhaka, for example, the Clean Dhaka campaign has mobilized thousands of volunteers to improve waste management and sanitation in the city.

Economic development and poverty alleviation are also essential. Providing basic amenities and opportunities for livelihood can enable individuals to focus on broader societal concerns. Investing in urban infrastructure, such as waste disposal systems and public transport, can significantly enhance the quality of life and promote civic responsibility.

Cultural transformation, though challenging, is necessary. Promoting values such as respect for public property, environmental conservation, and adherence to laws through media, art, and literature can gradually shift societal attitudes. In Sri Lanka, for instance, initiatives like the Galle Face Green Restoration Project have successfully combined cultural preservation with environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, the lack of civics sense in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh is a complex issue rooted in socio-economic, political, and cultural factors. Addressing this challenge requires collective efforts from governments, educational institutions, civil society, and citizens. By prioritizing education, governance, community engagement, and economic development, these nations can aspire to bridge the gap with their East Asian counterparts and foster a culture of civic responsibility. The journey may be arduous, but the rewards—cleaner cities, safer streets, and stronger communities—are well worth the effort.