Environmental degradation and human rights challenges for coastal populations in Bangladesh

Coastal environmental degradation in Bangladesh has worsened, with Cox’s Bazar as a critical hotspot. The sustainable use of marine resources is vital amid global economic pressures. Naturally prone to hazards, the region faces escalating anthropogenic pressure, which deepens risks to ecosystems and human livelihoods, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and equitable coastal resource management. This paper aims to investigate three interrelated issues: (i) the underlying reasons for the increasing vulnerability of coastal areas to environmental degradation; (ii) the specific factors contributing to ecological harm in the Cox’s Bazar coastal zone; and (iii) the human rights concerns that emerge as a consequence of such environmental degradation. This study employed a qualitative research design based on 25 in-depth interviews conducted across three coastal upazilas (Chakaria, Pekua, and Kutubdia) of Cox’s Bazar district, with respondents drawn from six stakeholder groups, including vulnerable community members, government officials, NGO representatives, journalists, civil society actors, and volunteers, to ensure diverse perspectives on coastal environmental governance. This article reveals that the intersection of politics in development projects, economic interests, ineffective deterrence, and limited public awareness of environmental regulations collectively drives environmental degradation in Cox’s Bazar, generating profound insecurities for coastal populations, most notably by undermining fundamental rights to life, health, food, and housing. The study concludes by outlining crucial implications that emphasize the roles of policymakers, NGOs, and civil society in strengthening deterrence against environmental crimes and fostering individuals' environmental awareness.