Toward blue justice in blue growth: Insights from local discourses on coastal megaprojects in Bangladesh

Recent blue growth has included various megaprojects in the coastal regions of many countries. Amidst such rapid developments, insights into the values, perceptions, and priorities of coastal communities, particularly in the Global South, are often overlooked. Bangladesh has shown a growing interest in blue growth following the resolution of maritime boundary disputes with neighbouring countries in the last decade. Maheshkhali Island, situated off the southeastern coast of Bangladesh, is a key blue growth hub, hosting numerous coastal megaprojects in energy, trade, and tourism sectors. Our study aims to understand the subjective viewpoints of a frequently underrepresented stakeholder group in blue economy development: small-scale resource users. Using Q methodology, we delineate three distinct discourses on blue growth among the resource users: 1. Injustice in growth: Discontent over development that overlooks local concerns , 2. Development within bounds: Need for development that safeguards local interests , and 3. Just compensation and safety: Advocating for equity amidst change . These discourses highlight risks including displacement, livelihood damage, human health impacts, environmental degradation, and unjust compensation. We trace elements of concern about recognitional, procedural, and distributive justice within these perspectives, and offer insights for achieving blue justice in the context of coastal megaprojects. This study contributes to the broader understanding and development of equitable blue growth planning and implementation, particularly in the South Asian context. We emphasise the need for policymakers and practitioners to engage meaningfully with local discourses to ensure just and sustainable blue growth outcomes in Bangladesh and similar coastal regions worldwide. • Explores local stakeholder perspectives on coastal megaprojects on a small island. • Identifies distinct discourses on blue growth among the small-scale resource users. • Three dimensions of justice are traced across these discourses. • Findings reflect local pathways to integrate blue justice into blue growth transformations.