Report on Public Administration Sector Study in 1993

Abstract

The Public Administration Sector Study was undertaken by the Public Administration Branch of the United Nations Department of Development Support and Management Services (UNDDSMS), New York, and sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) , Dhaka, for the Government of Bangladesh. This Study commenced with the 1992 UNDDSMS Formulation Mission, which developed through intensive discussions with over 50 officials from public and private The Public Administration Sector Study was undertaken by the Public Administration Branch of the United Nations Department of Development Support and Management Services (UNDDSMS), New York, and sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) , Dhaka, for the Government of Bangladesh. This Study commenced with the 1992 UNDDSMS Formulation Mission, which developed through intensive discussions with over 50 officials from public and private sectors, the focus, scope and terms of reference for the Study. The Formulation Mission was followed by a research component utilizing the services of eight national consultants, who carried out primary ^ata collection and analysis in five major ^reas: (1) organization and structure; (2) civil service management; (3) decision-making issues; (4) performance and accountability; and (5) human resources development, education, and training. In early 1993, another research area was added: the role and status of women in public service. Two areas of major importance--local government and financial management--were the subjects of recent and extensive studies, and not included in the terms of reference for this Study. The results of these related reviews were considered in the course of this Study, and those recommendations that are consistent with the findings of this Study are included herein. In this Study, the extensive use of consultation in the fo'rmulation of terms of reference and the utilization of national consultants demonstrates the intention to reflect the felt needs of the people, as expressed by different groups and segments of society. The Study Team consists of the Chief, Public Administration Branch, and a Special Adviser in Public Administration of UNDDSMS. They were assisted by an international consultant. During the data analysis and report writing stage, • wo additional international, consultants and one national consultant were added to the Team. Methodology of the Study included primary data collection through personal interviews, surveys, and analysis of computer generated information on personnel in the Bangladesh civil service. ‘The Study represents a compilation of the bindings and analysis in the reports of the national consultants, as well as from related reports, papers and other secondary data.