Society for Global Studies and Research

Latest Articles/Papers

Title: GDP, Unemployment, Government Expenditure in Bangladesh: Testing the Relevance of Okun’s Law

Abstract: This study examines the dynamic relationship among Gross Domestic Product (GDP), unemployment, and government expenditure in Bangladesh from 2010 to 2025. The analysis highlights a period of robust economic performance, with GDP growth consistently averaging above 6%, driven primarily by manufacturing, garment exports, and the service sector. Despite the significant disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which saw growth dip to 3.45%, the economy demonstrated structural resilience and a rapid recovery. Concurrently, government expenditure has expanded significantly as a fiscal tool for development, particularly through large-scale infrastructure projects and social safety nets. Public spending rose from BDT 1,217 billion in 2016 to over BDT 2,218 billion by 2025. However, this expansionary stance has not fully addressed labor market inefficiencies. Unemployment has remained relatively stable between 3% and 5%, suggesting that the link between GDP growth and job creation is weak, thereby offering only limited support for Okun’s Law in the Bangladeshi context. The study identifies persistent structural challenges, including high youth unemployment and skill mismatches, and concludes that inclusive growth policies and labor market reforms are essential to translate macroeconomic gains into sustainable employment generation.

By S.K.S. Yadav, Imran Hosen, Dhwani Gupta

In Volume: 15,Issue: 1

Title: Traditional Continuousness and Market Services: A Mixed-Method Field Study of Khadi Weaving Communities in Cumilla, Bangladesh

Abstract: A mixed-methods field study in Cumilla District, Bangladesh, from October 2025 to February 2026 studies Khadi manufacture and community well-being. It also illustrates global market entry issues. Primary data came from 360 semi-structured artisan interviews, 8 64-person focus groups, 300 household surveys from five upazillas, and 120 hours of participant observation. This study analyzed qualitative data (1,847 coded references, 24 nodes/6 themes) using NVivo 14 and evaluated quantitative dichotomous outcomes (well-being, market access, and GI awareness) using Fisher's Exact Test, One-Proportion Z-Test, Point-Biserial Correlation, McNemar's Test, and Cohen's Kappa (?=0.87).Major findings indicate that 71.4% of craftsmen experience emotional fulfillment in Khadi production, with present artists reporting superior well-being than former craftspeople (WHO-5 mean: 68.3 vs. 52.1; OR=4.82, p<0.001). GI certification increased average monthly wages 28.4% (BDT 8,450–10,850), however 62% are below the national living wage. Young people's engagement decreased from 42% (2010) to 18% (p<0.001) due to limited opportunities and a dismal income outlook (67%). Only 12% of people have access to global markets, and digital literacy highly corresponds with export activity (r_pb=0.42, p<0.001). These findings help the Craft-Centered Marketing Methodology (CCMM) balance market integration and cultural continuity utilizing the "Story-Value-Connection" (SVC) framework for sustainable Khadi growth.

By S.K.S. Yadav, Muhammad Mahboob Ali, Kiran

In Volume: 15,Issue: 1

Title: Live-in-Relationships and Socio - Legal Challenges in India

Abstract: Due to the absence of legal protection for property rights, live-in relationships continue to be socially stigmatised in India, especially in traditional groups. Property rights are usually valued by married couples, and live-in partnerships are not specifically recognised by Indian law. The difficulties that live-in couples encounter may be made worse by this lack of family support. Without legal recognition, issues pertaining to inheritance rights and child custody become complicated. Although it offers some protection against domestic abuse, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005 can be difficult to apply and enforce. Partners can not have the same financial rights or job benefits as married spouses. Despite these challenges, perceptions about cohabitation are gradually shifting, especially among younger people and in urban areas. Comprehensive legislative reforms are necessary to address the socio-legal problems that cohabiting couples face and to provide them with adequate protection and rights.

By Mohd Danish Khan, Pushkar Raj

In Volume: 15,Issue: 1

Title: The Dynamics of Broadcasting Law and Reality TV in India: Legal and Ethical Challenges

Abstract: In India, television reality programs have become a popular genre thanks to its relevant themes and lively content. But their quick expansion has spurred discussions about moral behavior, the effects on society, and legal issues. With an emphasis on reality television, this essay critically evaluates India's broadcasting laws and regulations, assessing how well they handle issues with participant exploitation, content manipulation, and cultural deterioration. The paper explores the legal framework that governs broadcasting in India, including the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) and the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. It draws attention to the shortcomings of current legislation, which is vague in addressing the subtleties of reality programs and results in problems like manufactured narratives, participant psychological suffering, and transgressions of decency standards. These difficulties are highlighted by case studies of well-known programs like Bigg Boss, Indian Idol, and Roadies, which offer insights into the sociocultural ramifications of such programming. The study also identifies areas for improvement by contrasting India's broadcasting laws with international regulatory standards. Among the recommendations are the introduction of specific rules for reality television, the reinforcement of self-control systems, and the encouragement of media literacy among audiences. Reforming broadcasting laws in the digital age is essential, according to the report, which promotes a balanced strategy that protects the public interest, participant welfare, and creative freedom. By emphasizing the necessity of strong controls in India's changing media landscape, this study seeks to advance the conversation on media ethics and policy.

By Jyoti Rawat Lohiya, Sarika Tyagi

In Volume: 15,Issue: 1

Title: Mediation as a Transformative Mechanism in Insolvency Resolution Under the IBC: Emerging Dimensions Under the Mediation Act, 2023

Abstract: The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) was enacted to ensure time-bound insolvency resolution, maximisation of asset value, and balancing of stakeholders’ interests. Nevertheless, increasing procedural delays, adversarial litigation, and mounting pendency before the National nyny Law Tribunal (NCLT) have diluted the efficiency of the insolvency framework. In this evolving context, mediation has emerged as a constructive and commercially viable mechanism capable of harmonising creditor-debtor relations while preserving enterprise value. The enactment of the Mediation Act marks a significant legislative shift towards institutional and pre-litigation mediation in India’s dispute resolution architecture. This paper critically examines the growing interface between mediation and insolvency law in India with special reference to recent developments under the IBC regime. It analyses how consensual dispute resolution can supplement the rigid adjudicatory model of insolvency proceedings, particularly in operational debt disputes, inter-creditor disagreements, avoidance transactions, and pre-packaged insolvency mechanisms. The study further evaluates the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India’s proposal permitting operational creditors to opt for mediation prior to initiating proceedings under Section 9 of the IBC, thereby institutionalising a culture of negotiated settlements within insolvency jurisprudence. The paper argues that mediation can substantially reduce litigation costs, preserve business continuity, maintain commercial relationships, and decongest insolvency tribunals without undermining the objectives of the IBC. It also explores the compatibility of mediated settlements with the principles of creditor autonomy, procedural fairness, and economic efficiency. By examining comparative global practices and contemporary Indian reforms, the paper concludes that mediation represents not merely an adjunct remedy but a transformative jurisprudential tool capable of reshaping insolvency governance in India from adversarial resolution to collaborative restructuring.