Remittance Utilization in Bangladesh: A Socio-Economic Study

Young Consultants (YC) undertook the Remittance Utilization in Bangladesh: A Socio-Economic Study for the Bangladesh Social Science Research Council (BSSRC), under the Planning Commission, Government of Bangladesh. The study aimed to identify effective approaches to remittance utilization in Bangladesh from a socio-economic perspective, examining how remittances are used, the factors motivating individuals to send money, and the implications of remittance utilization for communities and socio-economic development.

The study focused on understanding the dynamics of remittance utilization in Bangladesh, with particular emphasis on expenditure patterns and the allocation of remitted funds. It also explored the motivations behind remittance transfers in a developing-country context and examined potential relationships between the reasons for sending remittances and how the funds were subsequently utilized. In addition, the study sought to understand community-level demands and priorities concerning the use of remittances.

To achieve these objectives, YC mobilized the study team, designed the research methodology, and prepared questionnaires for primary data collection. The firm oriented field investigators to ensure the systematic collection of relevant information and conducted both primary and secondary data collection across Dhaka and six other cities in Bangladesh. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were also conducted to gather qualitative insights and complement the broader research findings.

Following data collection, YC undertook data entry and analysis and prepared the draft study report. In consultation with the BSSRC, the firm organized a national workshop to disseminate the study findings and facilitate discussion among relevant stakeholders. YC subsequently incorporated the comments and observations received from the BSSRC and participants at the national workshop into the final report, ensuring that the study findings and recommendations reflected the feedback received during the dissemination process.

Through this assignment, YC provided comprehensive research and analytical support, covering study design, questionnaire development, field investigator orientation, data collection, qualitative interviews, data analysis, stakeholder consultation, and report preparation. The study contributed to a better understanding of remittance utilization patterns, the motivations underlying remittance transfers, and community demands regarding the use of remitted funds in Bangladesh.

Assignment Details
Client: Bangladesh Social Science Research Council (BSSRC), Planning Commission, Government of Bangladesh
Location: Dhaka and six other cities, Bangladesh
Contract Value: Not specified in the available project information
Duration: 6 months (as stated in the assignment record)
Assignment Period: March 2009 – May 2009 (as stated in the assignment record)
Total Staff-Months: 4 staff-months (as stated in the assignment record)
Key Personnel: Professor Dr. Salahuddin Ahmad (Adviser); M. Zakir Hossain; S. M. Firoj Hasan; Shahnawaz Md. Rafi
Associated Consultants: Not applicable
Key Deliverables: Research methodology and study design; primary data collection questionnaires; field investigator orientation; primary and secondary data collection; Key Informant Interviews (KIIs); data entry and analysis; draft study report; national dissemination workshop; final study report incorporating BSSRC and workshop feedback.