This special issue of SANEM Roundup presents highlights from March to May, during which SANEM organized several major events. The 9th SANEM Annual Economists’ Conference (9SAEC2026) brought together economists, policymakers, and development practitioners to discuss policy responses to Bangladesh’s evolving development challenges. In partnership with the World Bank, SANEM also organized the #ClearHerPath University Quiz Competition, engaging university students on issues of women’s labor force participation and gender inclusion.
On the research front, SANEM produced studies on the economic implications of the Middle East conflict for Bangladesh, pathways for renewable energy transition and financing, reforms needed in social protection systems, labor market challenges, and strategies to strengthen trade competitiveness ahead of LDC graduation. These findings were disseminated through Thinking Aloud, Energy Outlook, policy briefs, and opinion pieces covering climate finance, transport sustainability, trade agreements, and the economic effects of fossil fuel price shocks.