Maritime Security for Bangladesh: Geopolitical, Geoeconomic, and Media Imperatives in the Bay of Bengal

Abstract

Bangladesh’s maritime security is becoming increasingly important to its national strategy, with sovereignty and economic growth closely linked to the Bay of Bengal. The maritime area offers strategic opportunities—such as key sea routes, fisheries, hydrocarbons, and Blue Economy resources—but also exposes the country to climate challenges, illegal fishing, and great-power competition in the Indo-Pacific. This study explores how historical legacies, current geopolitics, and emerging geoeconomic trends influence Bangladesh’s maritime security. Guided by the question, “What defines maritime security for Bangladesh and its future trajectory?” The research employs a multidimensional security framework (Buzan 1991; Till 2009) and qualitative methods, including document analysis and expert reflections. Findings show that maritime security extends beyond naval defense to encompass geopolitical balancing, economic influence, and societal engagement. The study emphasizes that promoting ocean literacy, strengthening institutions, and developing a resilient maritime strategy are crucial for protecting Bangladesh’s national interests and capitalizing on its strategic position in the twenty-first century.