Government has to answer to Donors Essay Example
Government has to answer to Donors Essay Example

Government has to answer to Donors Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (1013 words)
  • Published: October 30, 2017
  • Type: Case Study
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The upcoming Bangladesh Development Forum (BDF, 2004) conference in Dhaka will pose various difficult questions to the Bangladeshi government from its economic donors regarding the implementation of commitments made during the previous meeting. While most of these requests pertain to donor-mandated economic reforms, it is expected that the government will also face inquiries about the country's current political state, specifically its efforts to bring back the main opposition party into parliament.

The Ministry of Finance and Planning of the Bangladesh Government will host a meeting in Dhaka from May 8 - 10, which will be coordinated by the World Bank as the donor agencies gather. During this time, the country's business climate and various issues hindering investment opportunities are also scheduled to be discussed. Prior to the meeting, on April 13, donor agencies will meet with the Finance Minister to discuss the go

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vernment's economic condition and reforms progress. Specific topics to be addressed at the meeting include the implementation of policies outlined in the Poverty Reduction Strategic Paper, coordination programs for the second phase of World Bank development assistance loans, and the previous year's meeting's implementation.

The three-day meet is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and will be attended by the World Bank Vice President for South Asia and Finance and Planning Minister Janab M Saifur Rahman. The meet will cover seven sessions, discussing various topics such as good governance, increased participation by the government and NGOs, human resource development, development of economic and investment climate, development of different infrastructure, and implementation of the government's development activities. Senior World Bank officials have urged the Bangladesh government to be more active in

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developing private investment and employment opportunities, as well as increasing efficiency. Burning issues including the country's unstable political environment will also be addressed, along with transparency of the government, accountability to the legislature, local government issues, anti-corruption commission activities, salary structures of government employees, promotion based on merit, police reform, judicial separation from the executive branch, appointment of an ombudsman, overseas investment, bonded warehouse regulations, and other critical topics. Donors may pose difficult questions for the government regarding NGOs in a separate session.

Most analysts believe that the upcoming meeting presents a difficult obstacle for the government, as non-economic matters are also a priority alongside economic ones. Donors have been urging the Bangladesh government to establish regulations concerning good governance and human rights, as well as implement a Poverty Reduction Strategic Paper in recent years. These significant concerns should be resolved in Parliament; however, it appears that its effectiveness is lacking. Hence, the government needs to tackle these issues not just before donors but also in front of the entire public.

The law and order of the country is being damaged by an ongoing political conflict, which the government is failing to manage.

For a considerable duration, the government has been unsuccessful in implementing effective measures to re-engage the primary opposition party which has resulted in their prolonged absence from parliament. In spite of being an extremely unfavorable strategy, the opposition party has resorted to hartal strikes as a means of protest for an extended period.

The donors have been prioritizing the establishment of good governance for a while. They aim to guarantee that their funds are utilized appropriately. In the future, the government could create

a law to protest hartal by any party.

Both governmental and donor agencies aim to enhance the poverty level and living conditions of individuals as the ultimate objective in human development. Additionally, investors seek a secure environment for trade and investment.

The government needs to establish a stable environment for investors so that they can receive their returns. To achieve this, the government must be held accountable by both parliament and the public. Holding the government accountable involves regulating the behavior of public officials through organizations and constituents who have the power to impose penalties. It is crucial for the government to be accountable to the public and this should be reflected in parliament.

h. Local government empowerment: The local government is the only department with access to grassroots level. Donors usually scrutinize the local government for the allocation of funds to end beneficiaries.

Combating corruption requires a competent judiciary and effective anti-corruption laws, which include freedom of information and whistle-blower protection. These laws aid in prosecuting corrupt behavior. Conflict of interest, procurement, and party financing laws also support the transition to a society free from corruption. Donors propose that requiring government officials to disclose their assets is another helpful measure towards reducing corruption.

k. One of the most effective ways of monitoring public officials is through transparency enabled by public scrutiny. To promote such transparency, a variety of measures can be taken, including opening parliament, government, and court sessions to the public, registering lobbying activities, and publishing the voting records of parliamentarians. In addition, annual reports by government bodies, trial records, and the decisions of judges should also be made public.

The judiciary body is always influenced

by the government since the legislation department is not separate. In order to ensure human rights, the donors suggest that the government establish a human rights commission. The government will be asked about their progress in creating this commission.

The government's employment of an ombudsman is a significant commitment. They will be questioned regarding the progress made in this area. Additionally, the government is responsible for being transparent and answerable for the allocation of donor funds.

Donors have recommended privatizing many state-owned companies that have been operating at a loss due to corrupt management, in order to enhance their management and operation. As a result, the government may face questioning from donors regarding this issue.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) serves as a gauge for a country's investment climate and overall economy. A rise in FDI is indicative of an improved economy. Moreover, it's worth considering that our government can negotiate with donors for market access to their countries instead of just seeking funds from them. Access to global markets can bolster the economy and generate more job opportunities.

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