Geopolitics of Water: Insights from Dr. Ainun Nishat at BIISS Roundtable

Dr. Ainun Nishat, Adviser and Professor Emeritus of the Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research (C3ER), BRAC University, participated as a Special Guest in a roundtable discussion titled “Geopolitics of Water: Bangladesh Perspective,” organized by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) on January 29, 2025. The roundtable discussion aimed to facilitate a comprehensive dialogue on transboundary water governance, addressing the complexities of water-sharing agreements, geopolitical tensions, and opportunities for regional cooperation.

The event convened distinguished experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to critically examine the power asymmetries and geopolitical rivalries in hydro-diplomacy, particularly in Bangladesh’s negotiations on transboundary water resources. Key discussions revolved around Bangladesh’s strengths and vulnerabilities in international water negotiations, the strategic implications of regional water-sharing agreements, and the evolving diplomatic landscape influencing future cooperation.

During the discussion, Dr. Ainun Nishat provided expert insights into the intricate geopolitical and environmental challenges associated with transboundary water-sharing, emphasizing the importance of treaties, legal frameworks, and multilateral and bilateral collaborations to ensure equitable and sustainable water management. Drawing from his extensive experience, including his tenure at the Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) of Bangladesh, he shared valuable perspectives on the historical context of Bangladesh’s water negotiations. He underscored the need for adaptive and forward-looking strategies in transboundary water diplomacy.

He highlighted the pressing need for Bangladesh to strengthen its negotiation capacity, invest in hydrological research, and foster regional cooperation to navigate the complexities of water governance. The roundtable was crucial for fostering informed discussions and developing strategic approaches to ensure equitable and sustainable transboundary water-sharing agreements amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

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