Francisco Paulo holds a PhD in Economics from ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon, with a strong academic background and professional experience in macroeconomic policy, taxation, economic development, and international relations. He is currently a research assistant at the Business Research Unit (BRU-ISCTE-IUL) and at the Center for Studies and Scientific Research of the Catholic University of Angola (CEIC-UCAN), where he conducts applied research on taxation in Africa, tax reform in Angola, digital economy, and economic diversification. Throughout his career, he has produced relevant scientific work, including publications in books, academic journals, and edited volumes, addressing topics such as the Laffer curve, the relationship between taxation and democracy, and the challenges of Angola’s economy. His PhD thesis, titled Essays on Taxation in Africa and Tax Reforms in Angola, was successfully defended in 2025 and funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). Francisco also has extensive experience in policy consulting, having conducted studies for public and international institutions such as the World Bank, the European Commission, Africa Development Bank, the National Bank of Angola, and the Ministry of Economy and Planning. He has contributed to several public policy evaluations, economic impact studies, and sectoral diagnostics. As a lecturer, he has taught various economics and management courses at the Catholic University of Angola and served as a trainer in executive education and capacity-building programs promoted by institutions such as the Angola Capital Markets Commission and the Católica Luanda Business School. His career is marked by a combination of rigorous academic research, practical policy engagement, and a strong commitment to sustainable economic development in Angola and across Africa.