The Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) arranged an important conference, the BIDS Critical Conversations, 2016 “The Bangladesh Journey”, supported by the UK Aid Department for International Development (DFID) and EEP/Shiree. Held in Dhaka on 23-24 April 2016 at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC), the conference took an objective, considered look at Bangladesh’s journey of progress – the achievements and explanations – and a forward look to discern any gaps in information, analysis and policy.
As Bangladesh’s success is beginning to be recognised, various competing narratives are emerging which would benefit from more explanation. These are stories that need to be discussed not just by the academics, and policymakers but by a much wider cross-section of civil society. This BIDS two-day conference provided a platform for such discussion, conducted in a constructive, free, frank and cordial manner.
A dedicated session on “Eradicating extreme Poverty – Leave No One Behind” was held on Day 2 of the conference. Here EEP/Shiree’s Head of Research and Advocacy made a widely commended introductory presentation both on the issues and propositions for discussion.
Distinguished Guests at the conference included Mr AHM Mustafa Kamal, MP, the Hon. Minister of Planning and Dr Masihur Rahman, Economic Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister who warmly congratulated BIDS and its supporters for organising such an important event.
Dr. Murshid, Director General of BIDS, thanked DFID and EEP/Shiree for supporting the event.
Dr. S M Zulfiqar Ali’s presentation and the proceedings of the conference were streamed live and a recording of the session on Extreme Poverty can be found at BIDS website.
