Parliament Young Fellow (Research and Knowledge Management)
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh partners with the nation to support its journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. UNDP assists in strengthening institutional capacities through people-centric policies and development governance. In collaboration with the Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat, UNDP is launching the Parliament Young Fellows Programme (PYFP) to enhance parliamentary research and knowledge management, offering young graduates practical experience in legislative processes and public institutions.
Job Purpose
This fellowship aims to provide supplementary support to the Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat's Research & Library Management Wing, enhancing its capacity to provide research, information, and knowledge resources for informed parliamentary deliberations. The programme will offer young graduates practical exposure to parliamentary research, legislative processes, and public institutions. Fellows will contribute to producing demand-driven, accurate, and accessible research products, supporting parliamentary standing committees, and assisting parliamentary leadership with research and briefing notes, thereby strengthening institutional functioning and effective governance.
Responsibilities
Fellows will support the Research & Library Management branch in producing, organizing, and facilitating access to research and knowledge resources. This includes preparing research briefs, legislative background notes, and comparative studies; reviewing and synthesizing information from credible sources; organizing and indexing library resources; and contributing to the parliamentary knowledge repository. Fellows may also provide research and documentation support to Parliamentary Standing Committees, including preparing background papers and issue summaries, conducting desk research, and tracking recommendations. Additionally, they may assist parliamentary leadership with concise briefing notes and background papers on parliamentary business, legislative matters, and oversight functions, all coordinated through the Research & Library Management Branch.
Work Experience
No prior experience is required, though 6 months of relevant experience is considered an asset. This includes strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to synthesize information and prepare concise research notes. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and online research tools is necessary. A demonstrated interest in parliamentary affairs, governance, or public policy is beneficial. Experience with digital tools, including AI, is also noted.
Skills
Key competencies include professional integrity, impartiality, and non-partisanship in research activities. Fellows must ensure accuracy, objectivity, and evidence-based analysis, maintaining confidentiality of information. Strong communication skills in both Bangla and English are essential, along with good organizational skills and attention to detail. The ability to work collaboratively and adapt to different working requirements is important. Expertise areas include communication, advocacy, public information, governance, elections, knowledge management, research, and reporting.