Freedom from fear and subjective well‐being: Does personal security affect life satisfaction?

Abstract

What factors contribute to the life satisfaction of indigenous communities residing in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) in south‐eastern Bangladesh? This research delves into this question by examining the impacts of personal security, a key component of human security, on life satisfaction. A survey was undertaken in the CHT, collecting self‐reported data on personal security and life satisfaction from 384 indigenous respondents. Employing both ordinary least squares regressions and Tobit regressions, this study reveals a discernible and statistically significant negative association between personal insecurity and life satisfaction. The findings of this investigation underscore the importance of addressing personal security threats to enhance the well‐being of indigenous populations in the CHT. Policymakers and stakeholders can foster an environment where indigenous communities can survive, thrive and flourish by prioritizing measures to ensure freedom from fear.