Abstract: This study empirically investigates the inflation-unemployment trade-off in Bangladesh and assesses its implications for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) of zero poverty. High inflation erodes the real income of the poor, while unemployment directly limits earning capabilities, making the interplay between these variables a central determinant of poverty reduction. Using annual time-series data from 1990 to 2024, we employ an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to test for the existence and stability of a long-run relationship. Our findings confirm a significant short-run trade-off but reveal that this relationship is unstable and weakens in the long run, suggesting that other structural factors dominate. The results indicate that unanticipated inflationary shocks disproportionately harm the poor, and persistent unemployment remains a formidable barrier to inclusive growth. The study concludes that a singular focus on either price stability or employment generation is insufficient for attaining SDG 1. Instead, Bangladesh requires an integrated policy framework that combines prudent monetary policy to control the inflation rate with targeted fiscal measures, investments in human capital, and productive sector diversification to generate new employment opportunities. This holistic approach is essential to effectively manage the trade-off and accelerate progress towards eliminating poverty.
Abstract: In the last decades, the Korean Peninsula has remained a region of constant political conflict and worrisome instability. In recent times, the tension between North and South Koreas has gathered momentum following North Korea’s nuclear development programmes and subsequent display of military prowess by both Koreas in a fashion that is characteristic of arms race of the Cold War era. The United States has wielded into the situation in the Peninsula to the effect of ending the catastrophic nuclearization. This has ballooned the historical conflict between the United States and North Korea. The paper examines Military Presence of United States in Korean Peninsula Conflict and Intensification of Nuclear Development Programme by North Korea, in order to ascertain if the continuous military presence of United States in the Korean Peninsula as sustained by Biden’s Presidency contributes to the intensification of catastrophic nuclear weapons development programme by North Korea. The study adopted the ’Realist Theory’ as its anchor blue-print in a pragmatic effort to explain why the engagement between the two states remain largely hostile. The study adopted content analysis for the purpose of analyzing documented materials generated through secondary sources of data collection as well as the qualitative method of data analysis. The findings show the serial and catastrophic worsening of United States and North Korea conflict with the unabated military presence of United States in Korean Peninsula and how it has intensified nuclear development programme by North Korea. Recommendations were proffered along these findings as follows, the need for reduction in the high military presence of the US in Korean Peninsula which the government of North Korea perceived as a threat to the national security of North Korea. The facts shows that North Korea will continue to feel threatened so long as the US heavy military remain in the Korean Peninsula.
Abstract: Purpose: This article examines the role that psychological resilience plays in helping gig workers navigate the uncertainties and pressures of platform-based labour. The primary objective is to identify important elements contributing resilience and propose practical implications for those in HR positions and for policy makers.
Design/methodology/approach: A systematic literature review was conducted in the Scopus database searching from 1,528 studies published between 2015 and 2025. A total of 56 peer-reviewed articles were selected for systematic review after careful examination. The data for study was also visualized to reflect sources, co-authorship relations, and the connections of their keywords.
Findings: The research finds that psychological resilience in gig workers is a function of the right mixture of personal characteristics (such as optimism and good emotional control), how meaningful they find their work, and how strong their social support system is. Conversely, resilience is eroded by the problems of surveillance algorithms, precarious income, and social isolation. Effective answers include transparent control of algorithms, built-in well-being resources in apps, digital peer support groups, and portable benefits. There are still research gaps, especially concerning longitudinal data, representation from the Global South and larger-scale interventions.
Practical Implications
HR professionals and platform managers can enhance resilience by introducing mental health resources, promoting peer support and positively acknowledging gig workers’ contributions. Policymakers should focus on legal status, data rights and social protection to make gig work a viable choice.
Abstract: Bangladesh's rich textile heritage offers powerful, yet distinct, models for sustainable development. This study conducts a comparative analysis of two premier handloom sectors: the intricate Jamdani weaving of Tangail and the symbolic Khadi fabric of Cumilla. Framed within green economy principles, the research examines their socio-economic viability, environmental footprint, and potential as engines for pollution-free community development. Employing a mixed-methods approach (July-December 2025), the analysis incorporates surveys, environmental impact assessment, and case studies of both a "GI Gold" Jamdani export initiative and a revived Khadi business plan. Key comparative findings reveal: (1) Both sectors possess underutilized Geographical Indication (GI) status, but face different market challenges—Jamdani contends with high-skill imitation, while Khadi battles generic, low-cost substitutes; (2) their production paradigms, though both low-pollution, differ fundamentally, with Jamdani emphasizing artistic virtuosity and Khadi embodying philosophical self-reliance; and (3) their developmental contexts vary, with Tangail's model being craft-cluster centric and Cumilla's requiring synergistic infrastructure (e.g., airport revival) for growth. The study concludes that while both heritage textiles are potent vehicles for sustainable development, tailored, integrated strategies—recognizing their unique cultural, economic, and infrastructural ecosystems—are essential to unlock their full potential for artisan well-being, cultural preservation, and green economic growth in their respective regions.
Abstract: This research report provides an in-depth analysis of the persistent liquidity crisis within Bangladesh's banking sector. Characterized by a severe shortage of available cash to meet obligations, the crisis threatens financial stability and long-term economic growth. The study identifies the multifaceted causes of the crisis, which are predominantly rooted in systemic governance failures rather than external shocks. Key factors include alarming levels of Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) driven by poor credit governance and willful defaults, a declining trend in deposit growth, significant capital flight, and foreign currency mismanagement. The report assesses the profound impacts of this crisis, including constrained credit flow to productive sectors, erosion of public trust, and heightened systemic risk. It evaluates recent regulatory interventions by Bangladesh Bank, such as the unification of weak banks and the introduction of the Bank Resolution Ordinance 2025. Through analytical review, the report concludes that while these are positive steps, their long-term efficacy depends on rigorous implementation. The study recommends a holistic strategy encompassing stringent governance reforms, aggressive NPL resolution through asset reconstruction companies, monetary and fiscal policy coordination, technological integration for transparency, and confidence-building measures to attract deposits. The findings underscore that a sustainable solution requires unwavering political will to address deep-seated institutional corruption and mismanagement.
Abstract: This study examines pawnbroking's impact on social entrepreneurship and its implications for social development. It posits that Pawnbroking aids vulnerable entrepreneurs, often excluded from formal credit, in accessing quick financial resources, thereby enhancing social entrepreneurship. Through a meta-analysis and literature review, including three case studies from Bangladesh, the findings indicate that, despite exploitative practices, pawnshops are vital for providing the impoverished with financial access and supporting social welfare. However, risks such as asset loss, debt cycles, and exploitation of desperate borrowers are also highlighted. The study emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight and more accessible financial systems that protect borrowers while maintaining accessibility. Overall, pawnbroking offers both advantages and challenges for local communities in Bangladesh, necessitating a balance between quick cash access and consumer protections to promote healthier community dynamics.