National Dialogue Forum

Introduction to National Dialogue Forum

The National Dialogue Forum (NDF) is a non-political, non-partisan public policy organization headquartered in Islamabad, Pakistan. NDF's philosophy is centered on the concept of 'unity in diversity,' which espouses the belief that diversity is the strength of any society, and inclusiveness is the key to a prosperous future. To this end, NDF is a strong advocate for public policies that promote pluralism and inclusiveness in Pakistan.

NDF recognizes that the discourse in society is intricately linked to public policy. It firmly believes that a society that values and respects diversity is more likely to create policies that are fair, equitable, and effective. Therefore, NDF seeks to intervene in the discourse and promote a culture of inclusiveness, diversity, and respect. NDF acknowledges that not all perspectives are represented in the dominant discourse, which can lead to sub-optimal policy decisions. Hence, NDF focuses on dialogue as an instrument to reshape public policy in a more inclusive manner.

One of NDF's key strengths is its ability to provide a platform to marginalized groups and voices to articulate themselves. This allows them to positively intervene in the dominant discourse and make it more inclusive and representative. NDF strongly believes that youth is the key stakeholder in the process of building a more inclusive society. Therefore, NDF engages with youth from diverse backgrounds to foster a culture and value system based on respect, appreciation, and celebration of diversity in all spheres of life, be it social, political, or cultural.

NDF works with all key stakeholders of society, including public sector organizations, industry, non-government organizations, and civil society. NDF's expertise lies in promoting dialogue, undertaking cutting-edge policy research, implementing advocacy campaigns, and model interventions. The advisory board of NDF comprises leading policy makers, public intellectuals, academics, and practitioners who have championed the cause of building an inclusive Pakistan throughout their esteemed careers.

National Dialogue Forum is a visionary organization that promotes inclusiveness and diversity in Pakistan. By intervening in the discourse, promoting dialogue, and engaging with youth and all other stakeholders of society, NDF aims to create a more equitable, prosperous, and harmonious Pakistan.

Our Mission

National Dialogue Forum is committed to building an inclusive society where the voices of all segments, specially, historically marginalized and disadvantaged, are included in the processes of policy-making

Our Vision

Our vision is to create a peaceful, progressive, pluralistic society that actively promotes the inclusion of historically marginalized and disadvantaged voices in policy-making processes, leading to sustainable development, a better future for all, and prosperity for individuals and communities.

Expertise

NDF offers a range of services to its clients. With a focus on evidence-based approaches and sectoral expertise, NDF empowers communities and enhances the capacity of the public sector. We are committed to delivering tangible results and making a positive impact on the communities we work with.

Research, Monitoring and Evaluation

We offer a full range of services from survey and research designing, implementation, enumerator training, data verification and management to the final analysis and reporting. We develop M&E frameworks for projects which enable our clients to make critical and informed decisions while analyzing accountability. Our systems analyze performance and whether targets have been achieved, ensuring the five core standards of ‘relevance’, ‘effectiveness’, ‘efficiency’, ‘impact’ and ‘sustainability’. We also design and deliver monitoring frameworks and program evaluations for both internal operations as well as for our clients in the form of third-party services.

Communications and Advocacy

We believe that effective and strategic communication helps to ensure transparency, accountability, and wide ownership and engagement. We specialize in integrating traditional, digital, and social media campaigns to support policy development, augment client messaging, and stimulate an integrated narrative to policymakers, international organizations, opinion leaders, non-governmental organizations (NGO), and other key stakeholders. We act as clients’ local guide, helping to engage the right policymakers with effective messages, with our rich experience of working with various political parties.

Program Development and Delivery

We offer an evidence-based approach to program management and implementation by designing and managing effective and adaptive programs through the application of sectoral expertise as well as feedback loops from beneficiaries, clients, and other key stakeholders. With great focus on delivering successful strategies, emerging tools, as well as specific skills and approaches for effective implementation of development programming, NDF aims at empowering the communities we focus on. The institute also works towards enhancing the capacity of the public sector to better perform internally and externally towards the community they serve.

Policy Analysis and Design

We specialize in systematic evaluation of the technical and political implications of alternatives proposed to solve public problems. The institute conducts in-depth analysis of the impact of legislation and political contemplation across a wide range of issues facing our clients which include both government agencies and private companies operating at the juncture of legislative, political, regulatory, and commercial frameworks. Our public policy experts include influential academics at leading global schools of public policy, former high-level government officials, and executives with deep public and private sector experience in established as well as emerging economies.

Political Risk Analysis

We provide tailored advisory services advising clients on how to manage the risks arising from the political, social, operational, and security environments in the markets in which they operate. We employ robust in-house risk assessment methodologies resulting in reports developed by our political analysts who are experts in the local political arena. We provide thorough and detailed analysis through a combination of written reports, ‘heatmaps,’ network maps, interactive presentations and workshops, training programs, and scenario exercises.

Advanced Data Analytics and Visualizations:

In the area of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation, data science and analytics play a critical role in ensuring that programs are evaluated effectively and efficiently. In addition to traditional reports, NDF's data science and analytics team can create interactive dashboards and visualizations that provide clients with real-time access to program data, allowing them to track progress and make informed decisions. These dashboards can be customized to meet the specific needs of each client and can be updated in real-time to ensure that stakeholders have the most up-to-date information available. NDF's data science and analytics team plays a critical role in ensuring that programs are evaluated effectively and efficiently. By leveraging advanced data analytics techniques and developing interactive dashboards and visualizations, they can provide clients with the tools they need to make informed decisions and track program progress in real-time.

Board of Advisors

National Dialogue Forum is committed to building an inclusive society where the voices of all segments, specially, historically marginalized and disadvantaged, are included in the processes of policy-making.

At NDF, we strive to offer the highest quality services to our clients, based on our expertise and deep understanding of local contexts. We are committed to making a positive impact on the communities we work with and delivering tangible results.

Partners

National Dialogue Forum is committed to building an inclusive society where the voices of all segments, specially, historically marginalized and disadvantaged, are included in the processes of policy-making.

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