Governance in sustainable public procurement : role of Supreme Audit Institution, Bangladesh

Abstract

Sustainability is not a destination, it is simply a direction. The Article 18 A of the Constitution of the People‟s Republic of Bangladesh said ”The state shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to preserve and safeguard the natural resources, biodiversity, wetlands, forests and wildlife for the present and future citizens.” Sustainable development is thus a constitutional obligation in Bangladesh. Bangladesh is the signatory of Agenda21 which promote sustainable development as well as sustainable procurement. This study explored sustainability issues in public procurement activities of SAI towards this. This study analyzed the legal frameworks of SAI and sustainability in public procurement. Firstly, the study has done a robust literature review on Sustainable development, public procurement, legal and institutional arrangement in relation of SAI and public procurement to the country context of Bangladesh. Secondly, a questionnaire survey done on the particular subject of the study where existing scenario in sustainable procurement, sustainability culture and future thinking of procurement professional assessed. Professionals‟ involved in auditing government activities also gave their opinion what is their role in sustainable public procurement. Respondents are from various public sector organization give their opinion for sustainable public procurement. Thirdly, after respondents‟ suggestion for a sustainable procurement the study suggested a governance framework for sustainable public procurement audit. Fourthly, proposed governance framework assessed through In-depth Interview of expert involves in procurement audit. The study found that sustainable procurement practice ensures sustainable development. The study suggested every procuring entity should adopt a sustainable procurement framework in line with SAI audit strategy.