Mission and objectives

UNDP’s mandate is to end poverty, build democratic governance, rule of law, and inclusive institutions. We advocate for change, and connect countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has partnered with Bangladesh ever since its birth and through its remarkable journey from a war-ravaged economy to a middle-income country. It remains a catalyst in Bangladesh’s journey from Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. UNDP assists in building institutions and helps strengthen institutional capacities through people-centric, pro-poor, inclusive and sustainable policy making and development governance.

Context

While graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status is a testament to Bangladesh’s developmental progress, it will bring various challenges, requiring adroit policy responses to manage the transition and prepare, especially for the loss of LDC-specific trade preferences. If Bangladesh can successfully navigate and mitigate any adverse implications for its export trade following its graduation from the LDC status, the transition should not precipitate major economic consequences, but will rather represent a natural progression in economic development. However, to navigate the transition effectively, Bangladesh will need to adopt a dual approach: securing extended LDC-type trade preferences as a transitional buffer and bolstering export competitiveness. The Ministry of Commerce (MoC) will play a crucial role in the post-LDC scenario, despite facing limited resources—encompassing human, financial, and technical capacities—and programmatic support. The IP Transformative Economic Policy Programme (TEPP) – II project, funded by the UK government, aims to bridge these gaps, aligning closely with national priorities for a smooth LDC graduation, particularly on Bangladesh’s trade policy and trade negotiation skills, inter-ministerial coordination on compliance issues, private sector’s competitiveness, and evidence-based policy initiatives. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) will also play a crucial role in supporting ongoing growth and economic development and reaping potential benefits from the LDC graduation. In an evolving context, Bangladesh will need to improve investment facilitation, retention, and aftercare services to attract more FDI. This project, through the Research and Analytics Unit (RAU), anchored in the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) of the Prime Minister’s Office will also support evidence-based policy reforms for improved investment climate in Bangladesh. The Research Expert will work under the direct supervision of the Coordinator and Economist of the IP TEPP-II project. In carrying out her/his responsibilities, s/he will conduct research on economic policy, trade and investment-related affairs, specifically catering to the needs of MoC and BIDA, coordinate with different stakeholders as necessary, and provide investment and trade analysis for informed decision-making.

Task Description

Under the supervision of the Coordinator and Economist, IP TEPP-II, UNDP Bangladesh, the Research Expert will undertake the following tasks:- A. Conduct thorough research on emerging issues and interpret results for policy implications. • Identify contemporary economic development issues relevant to trade and investment based on MoC and BIDA’s needs. • Carry out data analytics on the trade and investment situation in Bangladesh. • Conducting primary and secondary research to inform policymakers about the overall investment climate. • Provide expert input in policy briefs, research papers, reports, concept notes, etc. • Stay updated on national and international economic developments, regulations, and best practices. • Produce briefing notes and write-ups on trade and investment. B. Support hiring individual consultants/consulting firms and ensure the quality of commissioned studies. • Finalize ToRs for hiring individual consultants/consulting firms for commissioned studies. • Review the work plans, programme/project papers and reporting documents when commissioning large studies. • Ensure the quality of large studies commissioned by collaborating with individual consultants/consulting firms. C. Develop partnerships, policy engagement and report writing. • Plan and organize dialogues/workshops/consultation meetings, especially to disseminate research findings and promote policy dialogue • Provide expert guidance and support in policy advocacy efforts, including drafting policy briefs and engaging in public forums. • Engage with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on proposed interventions, fostering strong partnerships. D. Any other tasks assigned by the team.

Competencies and values

• Accountability • Adaptability and Flexibility • Commitment and Motivation • Commitment to Continuous Learning • Working with teams • Communication • Integrity • Judgement and Decision-making • Planning and Organizing • Professionalism • Respect for Diversity

Living conditions and remarks

Dhaka is located in central Bangladesh along the Buriganga River. Not only is it the capital city, but it is also the largest in the country. It is the centre of political, cultural, and economic life in Bangladesh. The official language is Bengali, while English is the working language of UN Agencies. In recent decades, Dhaka has seen the modernization of services, communications, and public works. The city is attracting large foreign investments and greater volumes of commerce and trade. It is also experiencing an increasing influx of people from across the nation; this has reportedly made Dhaka one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Dhaka is connected to other cities by rail, road, and by air and internationals can move easily from one city to another. Dhaka has venerable green spaces, including many gardens and parks, historical places, and nice restaurants. The weather is tropical – hot and very humid during the summer monsoon season (April-September) and drier and cooler in the winter (October-March). While Dhaka is not categorized as a hardship station, the volunteer should be prepared for limitations in freedom of movement on foot, by public transport, and to certain locations