Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) chairman Prof Dr Rehman Sobhan on Sunday said the think tank's mission was to foster conclusive as well as constructive dialogues on economic issues by engaging political leaders.
While addressing an event hosted at a local hotel commemorating the CPD's 30-year journey, he highlighted the organisation's efforts to initiate inclusive policy discussions involving government, opposition and other stakeholders.
"The CPD successfully created a platform for constructive dialogue," said Prof Sobhan.
"It's deeply regrettable that despite our invitations no finance minister has participated in the CPD's policy dialogues over the past 15 years. This marks a significant obstacle to meaningful discourse."
Prof Sobhan underscored that policy decisions earlier were often shaped by the government and foreign development partners.
"To my mind, policy formulation should be a democratic process," he argued, advocating broader engagement from civil society, businesses, labour unions and NGOs in shaping policies.
BNP standing-committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, who also spoke at the event, reflected on the CPD's role in trying times when dialogue opportunities were restricted.
"In the past, the CPD provided a platform for us to express our views, even when open dialogue was limited," he said.
Criticising the Awami League-led government for undermining voting rights, Mr Khasru remarked, "When the right to vote is taken away, other rights of the people are inevitably suppressed."
"We are now in a situation where reforms are needed not only in governance, but also within political parties."
The BNP leader emphasised that reforms must be pursued through democratic means. "True reform cannot be imposed by a few individuals. It requires collective effort and engagement to ensure public participation."
CPD research director Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem presented a paper on the issue of legalising undisclosed money.
"The CPD has consistently opposed the practice of whitening black money and remains firm in its stance," he said, calling for an effective progressive tax system to foster equity in society.
He also stressed the need to realign tax and VAT structures with an eye to creating a more effective and fair fiscal framework.
Rasheda K Choudhury, a member of the CPD Trustee Board, called for more research on remittances alongside economic studies. "Understanding income and expenditure dynamics is critical."
The former adviser to a caretaker government also highlighted challenges faced by potential investors.
"Many people are willing to invest significant sums but lack confidence and suitable opportunities, causing them to turn away from investment."
The anniversary programme featured a pre-recorded message from Dr Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to the interim government.
CPD distinguished fellow and political scientist Prof Rounaq Jahan, The Daily Star editor Mahfuz Anam, Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Dhaka director Nihad Kabir, and Bangladesh Garment Workers Solidarity president Taslima Akhter, among others, spoke at the function, moderated by CPD executive director Dr Fahmida Khatun.
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