Dynamics of contemporary foreign policy of Bangladesh

Bangladesh is at a crossroads in navigating its foreign policy to address various contemporary global dynamics, especially in the South Asian region. With a focus on regional connectivity, gender empowerment, and emerging challenges, Bangladesh's foreign policy is undergoing notable changes.

Bangladesh recognises the importance of regional connectivity for fostering economic growth, social development, and cultural exchange. The country has significantly enhanced physical connectivity by investing in infrastructure projects that improve road, rail, and air connectivity with neighbouring countries. This facilitates trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, strengthening regional cooperation and integration.

In addition to physical connectivity, Bangladesh is actively promoting services-based connectivity. This includes initiatives to enhance cooperation in oil, gas, and cable-connected internet services. By establishing cross-border energy pipelines, developing internet connectivity, and facilitating knowledge exchange, Bangladesh aims to create an interconnected and mutually beneficial regional network.

Furthermore, Bangladesh emphasises soft connectivity, connecting minds and people, and fostering cultural exchanges. The country has become an attractive destination for students from Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, and other neighbouring nations, providing quality education and promoting academic collaborations. These educational exchanges contribute to a better understanding among nations and promote long-term regional cooperation.

Lastly, Bangladesh recognises the strategic significance of maritime connectivity. As a coastal nation, it seeks to leverage its geographical advantage to enhance trade, security, and cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region. By investing in port infrastructure, ensuring maritime security, and participating in regional forums, Bangladesh aims to strengthen its position as a critical player in the maritime domain.

FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS: EXPANDING ECONOMIC COOPERATION FOR BANGLADESH: Bangladesh recognises the importance of expanding its economic cooperation and diversifying its trade partners. The country is in the process of launching negotiations on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with several nations. Notably, Bangladesh has progressed with Indonesia, with a preliminary stage reached in negotiations. Additionally, initial discussions for FTAs are underway with Malaysia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

These FTAs, if achieved, will offer opportunities for increased market access, trade facilitation, and economic growth. By diversifying its trade partners, Bangladesh will be able to reduce dependency on specific markets, such as its dependency on the Readymade Garments (RMG) sector, and enhance resilience in the face of global economic uncertainties. The agreements will also promote technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and capacity building, contributing to the overall development of Bangladesh's economy by taking regional comparative advantages.

GENDER EMPOWERMENT: A ROLE MODEL FOR EQUALITY IN BANGLADESH'S FOREIGN POLICY: Bangladesh has taken significant steps to promote gender equality within its foreign policy framework. Over the years, there has been a remarkable increase in the representation of women in the Bangladeshi Foreign Service. Of about 300 diplomats, 50-60 women perform fairlly with their male counterparts. The appointment of female ambassadors to countries such as the USA, the UK, South Korea, Vietnam, and more demonstrates Bangladesh's commitment to gender empowerment.

By actively accommodating the voice and perspectives of female colleagues, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has embraced a gender-sensitive approach. Bangladesh's achievements in gender empowerment are recognised globally, positioning it as a role model in South Asia and surpassing even developed nations like Japan in terms of political and economic gender equality.

Bangladesh's commitment to gender empowerment extends beyond its internal policies. The country actively participates in international fora and UN sessions to advocate for women's rights, gender equality, and women's empowerment in all spheres of the society. By leveraging its position as a role model for gender empowerment, Bangladesh amplifies its voice on the global stage and contributes to shaping international norms and policies.

CONSISTENCY AMIDST DIFFERENT TIMELINES: BANGLADESH'S STABLE FOREIGN POLICY: Bangladesh's foreign policy has demonstrated a remarkable level of continuity and stability, despite occasional shifts in approach following various changes in its decision-making and operational modality. While foreign policy priorities may be nuanced based on the decision makers, the core principles and objectives remained consistent. This continuity reflects the nation's commitment to pursuing its national interests, upholding diplomatic norms and regulations, and navigating complex global challenges with prudence.

Bangladesh's foreign policy is rooted in a merit-based approach that ensures decisions are made based on national interests, regional stability, and global cooperation. It prioritises diplomatic engagement, mutual respect, and dialogue as the preferred means of addressing disputes and advancing national objectives. This stability in foreign policy helps build trust with international partners, fosters predictability and creates an enabling environment for sustained cooperation and collaboration.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES: SHAPING BANGLADESH'S FOREIGN POLICY: Bangladesh faces various challenges in its foreign policy endeavours. For instance, the issue of the Bay of Bengal holds significant importance as the country seeks to advance its maritime interests while addressing potential disputes and ensuring regional cooperation. Additionally, the Rohingya crisis poses a humanitarian and diplomatic challenge, as Bangladesh shoulders a significant burden in providing shelter and assistance to the displaced Rohingya population.

In alignment with its core foreign policy, e.g., "Friendship to all, malice to none," Bangladesh continues to engage with the international community to find a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the contemporary crisis. This is illustrated by Bangladesh's commitment towards global peace at its core and by consistently being one of the prominent contributors to the United Nations peacekeeping missions.

In the context of emerging global dynamics, Bangladesh recognises the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region. As a littoral state of the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh aims to leverage the collective strength of Indo-Pacific countries to foster peace, prosperity, and stability. By actively engaging in regional and international efforts on issues such as non-proliferation, counter-terrorism, sustainable development, and climate action, Bangladesh strives to contribute to the shared goals of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific region.

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS: In the South Asian context, Bangladesh's foreign policy reflects its evolving priorities and commitment to regional connectivity, justice, economic cooperation, gender empowerment, and global engagement. As the nation navigates contemporary dynamics, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of peace, stability, and prosperity while also maintaining its unique stances of national interests and values.

However, Bangladesh may have its challenges and drawbacks, but what matters is the attempt to navigate strategically at such crossroads. And so far, specifically about foreign dynamics, it is in a position where Bangladesh can leverage and grow further. Bangladesh aims to shape a secure and inclusive global and regional position, while advancing its national interests and aspirations by upholding core principles, engaging in meaningful partnerships, and addressing emerging challenges.

The nation's emphasis on regional connectivity, principled stances on global issues, expanding economic cooperation, gender empowerment, and Indo-Pacific engagement showcases its commitment to shaping a prosperous and secure South Asia. As Bangladesh continues to play an active role on the international stage, it strives to build meaningful regional partnerships and foster a South Asia characterised by peace, justice, and inclusivity.

Dr Shanawez Hossain is an Assistant Professor at the Global Studies and Governance (GSG) department at the Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB). Ahmad Tousif Jami is a Research Assistant and Student at GSG, IUB. [email protected], [email protected]