This event celebrates the launch of David Jackman’s new book, Syndicates and Societies: Criminal Politics in Dhaka (Cambridge University Press). Based on years of research, the book reveals how syndicates shape life in Kawran Bazar, the largest marketplace in Bangladesh, and offers a new approach to understanding the nexus of crime and politics. The book traces the bazar’s history from a heartland of gangsters to being dominated by ruling party leaders and state officials. It follows a group of labourers as they seek a place in this world, aligning themselves to leaders, orchestrating bombings and fighting off rivals. Syndicates and Societies thus explores the relationship between crime and order, revealing a world of extortionists and informers, political muscle and union leaders.

David Jackman will discuss the book’s findings with Barbara Harriss-White (Professor Emeritus of Development Studies).

To be followed by a drinks reception.