Annual Report 2009-10 - Sustainable Development Policy Institute

Annual Report2009 - 2010Message from the Chairman Board of GovernorsSince its inception in 1992, the Sustainable Development Policy Institute(SDPI) has played a leading role in providing actionable policy researchin the fields of climate change, conflict management, peace and sustainabledevelopment. It has been vigorous in providing policy advice to thegovernment of Pakistan and through advocacy campaigns engaging civilsociety on these issues.SDPI has also been in the forefront as an independent nongovernmental,non-profit policy think tank in initiating policy dialogues,raising awareness and in engaging civil society on issues of minority rights; gender mainstreaming, curriculum reform, post conflict disaster management, sustaining democracy andpromoting peace and development. Changing dynamics of politico-economic environment in thecountry and the region during this decade did have an impact on the ability of SDPI to build astable financial support base. In the past few years SDPI has been struggling to secure its fundingand that impaired its human resource base. However, it is heartening to note that throughteam work, dedication, self-sacrifice and commitment of purpose the SDPI has shown enormousresilience. Earlier this year through a competitive process the SDPI team of professionalshas won a multi- year IDRC grant. The year 2011 could be a defining year for the SDPI as theIDRC grant has opened up a window of opportunity to re-furbish its human resource base andcontribute towards producing innovating solutions and cutting edge quality research in the areasgiven in its mandate. The SDPI should be thinking of the decade ahead and keep an eye on theyear 2012 when it completes twenty years, now is the time for agenda setting and choosing areasof future research and a plan of action. The SDPI is poised to re-invigorate its mission andpursue goals that could alter the direction of policy process and contribute towards promoting aculture of evidence based research and policy debate in the country. The kind of spirit and dedicationthat the SDPI has shown lends me to believe that it is bound to succeed and I am confidentit has a bright future as an independent think tank and provider of cutting edge policy research.Dr. Saeed ShafqatChairperson, Board of Governors7S u s t a I n a b l e D e v e l o p m e n t P o l I c y I n s t I t u t e