HDRC has experience of implementing successful research-based advocacies. Based on rigorous research on the subject, HDRC sets SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely) goals for any such work. To make the advocacy most effective, HDRC develops a customized strategy for considering the nature of the work. HDRC identifies the targeted audience considering the resources available in best possible timing. It engages the key stakeholders, builds coalitions and organizes relevant groups. HDRC develops messages and best possible channels to reach the targeted stakeholders and prepare necessary materials. HDRC is expert in preparing presentation slides, brief research report, press releases, and policy briefs for the purpose of dissemination. Media connections and coverage are ensured through dedicated efforts. The potential risks and sensitivities are considered with due respect within the relevant current cultural and political climate. HDRC has the proven capacity to organize high level advocacy events maintaining all professional and ethical standards.
HDRC’s advocacy has facilitated in increasing the price of harmful tobacco products
HDRC conducted series of research-based studies advocacies with towards an effective tobacco taxation in Bangladesh. This was supported by Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK) between 2012 and 2015. A very comprehensive and evidence-based ‘Proposed Tobacco-Tax Policy 2015’ with specific time-bound guiding principles had been drafted by HDRC—which is first of its kind in Bangladesh. Besides, a number of policy briefs for policy makers, advocacy materials for the honorable Members of Parliament (MPs), press materials for journalist were developed. The MPs were continuously sensitized in one-to-one basis. As a result of those sensitization activities, a good number of MPs issued DO letters to National Board of Revenue in favor of increasing tax on all tobacco products. Post and pre-budget press conferences organized by HDRC and video documentary aired in the national television channels were highly effective in creating pressure on the government. The concerted efforts of HDRC—ensuring proactive participation of the active tobacco control groups in Bangladesh—pursued the government to revise the tax structure which significantly increased the price of the tobacco products. The increase in the price has resulted in decreasing
National Forum on Dairy Development formed with support from Oxfam GB
Oxfam GB has been implementing a development component titled “Scaling up Inclusive Dairy Markets” under REE-CALL framework (Resilience through Economic Empowerment, Climate Adaptation, Leadership and Learning Framework) since May 2014 in several Char areas in the Northern parts of Bangladesh. Under the Gendered Enterprise Markets (GEM) and Enterprise Development Programme (EDP), Oxfam in Bangladesh Programme wants to build its influencing strategy. To carry out this initiative, a National Forum on Dairy Development has formed facilitated by HDRC as an effective advocacy instrument. The Forum includes member of parliament, government livestock extension service providers, central bank, specialized and commercial banks and financial institutions, journalist, eminent academicians, researches, union of milk corporative, NGO, association of the economist, apex body of the commerce and industries, development partners and member of the production groups organized at the grassroots level (in order to coordinate and promote dairy activities in community level). Member of the Parliament Advocate Umme Kulsum Smriti is the President of this forum. Since inception of the forum on 29th May 2016, teh forum has been contributing visibly in the policy sphere.