The strategic rationale for NATO’s enlargement was rooted in both idealism and realpolitik. Proponents argued that expanding NATO would consolidate a Europe “whole and free,” ensuring ‘’stability and democracy’’ in regions historically susceptible to authoritarianism. However, critics contended that this rationale failed largely when the war in the Balkans broke out in the late 1990s and the enlargement was considered a provocative move, encircling Russia and undermining its regional security interests. This dichotomy between Western aspirations for a hegemonic international order and Russia’s perception of encirclement set the stage for the geopolitical discord that would eventually manifest in the war in Ukraine.
Read moreThe Houthis and the Global Trend Towards Offensive Realism Redefining Resistance
This maneuver by the Houthis has precipitated a crisis in the US’s hegemonic status. America’s foremost objective has been to contain the Israel-Palestine conflict, preventing its escalation into a full-fledged regional war. However, the involvement of the Houthis, coupled with Hezbollah’s participation, transforms the conflict into a regional affair, albeit one restrained by diplomatic efforts and international pressure.
Read morePan-Arab Fraternity Can be a Game Changer Against the Israeli Genocide in Gaza
Recent developments in the region underscore the urgency of this call for a pan-Arab fraternity movement. The Arab world continues to grapple with complex geopolitical challenges, often exacerbated by external influences. While there have been instances of attempts to unite Arab nations and peoples, they have often fallen short due to internal divisions and the imposition of foreign ideologies. To address these issues effectively, it is imperative to foster a sense of shared identity and purpose that transcends sectarian and national boundaries, and this can be achieved through a pan-Arab fraternity movement.
Read moreA Geostrategic Perspective of the Decline of Hegemonic Stability Theory and Emergence of Augmentism
The proposed “Augmentation Theory” or “Augmentism” represents a comprehensive approach to geostrategy that integrates key elements from the Theory of Defensive Realism, the Theory of Balance of Power, the Theory of Neoclassical Realism, and the Theory of Liberal Institutionalism. Augmentism is a very delicate balancing act that will seek to work only on the positive and sustainable growth of international relations, not otherwise, but one that can lead an emerging power into a more secure and influential position in the global arena.
Read moreCrisis at the Border: How Myanmar’s Unrest Threatens Bangladesh
The crisis in Myanmar poses a significant threat to Bangladesh’s national security. The influx of refugees, the spillover of violence, and the potential for regional instability all contribute to the urgency of addressing this issue. Bangladesh must tread carefully in its dealings with the various warring factions in Myanmar and northeastern India, while also strengthening its border security and defense capabilities. Additionally, working closely with international partners is crucial to effectively address the crisis in Myanmar and protect Bangladesh’s interests.
Read moreUnveiling the Underbelly of Civil Societies in Bangladesh: A Call for Action
The compromised state of civil society in Bangladesh is disconcerting. It has destroyed civil society’s ability to function as a robust, neutral, and independent watchdog. Furthermore, civil society has not only depleted the country’s profound cultural heritage but has also birthed security and sovereignty challenges. The Rohingya crisis serves as a poignant example where civil society, buoyed by Western and local media, pressured the government to shelter Rohingyas, compromising the nation’s security.
Read moreBeyond Ballots: Reimagining Democracy in Bangladesh for Social Justice in Global Contexts
The influence of external actors, including former colonial powers and international corporations, are skewign the priorities of Bangladesh. These influences often reinforce a narrow conception of democracy, emphasizing electoral processes over the broader democratic principles of accountability, transparency, and inclusivity. As a result, the potential of democracy to serve as a vehicle for social justice is compromised, and the concept becomes a tool for maintaining the status quo rather than a means of transformation.
Read moreThe Precipice of Political Discord: Bangladesh’s Struggle for Stability in a Global Maelstrom
The political unrest within Bangladesh’s borders is not insulated from global influences. There are indications that the United States and its strategic allies are extending covert support to the opposition. While such maneuvers may be driven by geopolitical considerations, particularly those aligned with the US’s Indo-Pacific strategy, they risk destabilizing Bangladesh. The potential for creating a security vacuum in the strategically vital Bay of Bengal region is a cause for concern, particularly given the region’s significance in the power dynamics involving China and India.
Read moreStrategic Insights into Israel-Hamas War, Information Warfare, and the Quest for Lasting Peace
The Hamas offensive, Israel’s defence strategies, and the wider implications across the Middle East have unveiled the bursting nature of regional politics. This ever-evolving chessboard, where alliances shift and new actors come to the forefront, underscores the utmost importance of a deep understanding of the interplay between power, diplomacy, and conflict. Besides, the erosion of trust in mainstream media echoes the profound influence of information warfare on public discourse. In a world awash with falsehoods and competing narratives, strategic thinkers must adeptly distinguish fact from fiction and appreciate the broader consequences of these trends on the global political stage. Additionally, we must keep in mind that the illusory nature of ceasefires stands as a poignant reminder that peace is not a mere absence of conflict but a multifaceted endeavour requiring the resolution of underlying issues. In the realm of strategic thinking, we must acknowledge that temporary halts in hostilities do not guarantee enduring peace. True peace necessitates a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of conflict and aspires to establish a genuine, lasting stability.
Read moreGeopolitical Quagmire of Nagorno-Karabakh
The ongoing situation in Nagorno-Karabakh is a direct result of unsuccessful and insincere diplomatic efforts by both regional and global powers. Their incapacity to effectively address the issue has worsened the crisis, causing a large number of people to leave the region. Additionally, the growing polarization, both regionally and globally, has played a significant role in shaping the current mass migration scenario. This polarization, characterized by sharp divisions and disputes, has added another layer of complexity to the situation, making it increasingly challenging for displaced individuals to find safety and stability. It’s evident that the actions, or lack thereof, by these powers have had a profound impact on the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh.
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