In a remote corner of Natore lies a village unlike any other in Bangladesh. It’s called Hulhulia—a place where not a single police report has ever been filed since independence, and where every resident has passed the SSC examination.
This quiet village has drawn the attention of TREE Association—not just for its peacefulness or academic record, but for something even more extraordinary: Hulhulia has its own constitution.
Yes, you read that right. The village operates under a self-written constitution, implemented through a local body known as the Village Development Council. This constitution is not just symbolic—it’s a working master plan for long-term community development. And it’s working.
At TREE, we’ve started a research initiative to explore and understand the foundations of Hulhulia’s success. Our preliminary findings suggest that community-driven governance, like the constitution and the council, plays a pivotal role. But there is more to uncover, and we are just getting started.
Inspired by Hulhulia, TREE is now preparing to launch a Union Development Master Plan in Baghutia Union, Abhaynagar Upazila, Jessore. This plan will be co-created with the people, ensuring grassroots participation in every step of the process.
We are partnering with the 6 No. Baghutia Union Parishad to design this inclusive and participatory roadmap for rural development.
Want to contribute?
If you believe your skills or network could support this work and want to get involved, feel free to reach out to us at 01924-394795 or email us at i.produce.my.oxygen@gmail.com.
Together, let’s reimagine rural development—one village, one vision at a time.