Maritime Governance in Bangladesh: Examining the Compliance with International Conventions and Strategic Advancements

Maritime governance is very important for coastal nations like Bangladesh, which rely heavily on maritime activities for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and national security. This article critically examines Bangladesh’s compliance with major international maritime conventions, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), and the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) etc. Through an in-depth analysis of Bangladesh’s legal and institutional frameworks, comparative studies with regional and global maritime leaders, and the identification of existing gaps and challenges, this study offers strategic recommendations to enhance maritime governance in the country. Tabular analyses provide clear comparisons of Bangladesh’s performance to other nations, highlighting areas for improvement and best practices. The findings underscore the necessity for robust enforcement mechanisms, enhanced institutional capacity, and the integration of advanced technologies to align Bangladesh’s maritime governance with international standards. This article contributes to the academic discourse on maritime law and policy, offering insights into the effective implementation of international conventions within a developing maritime nation like Bangladesh.