Maritime Zones and Blue Economy in Bangladesh: A Legal and Policy Analysis

This research article critically evaluates the legal and policy framework governing Bangladesh’s maritime zones and explores their implications for sustainable development through the blue economy by the use of legal statutes such as the Territorial Waters and Maritime Zones Act, 1974; the Marine Fisheries Act, 2020; and the Wildlife (Conservation and Protection) Act, 2012, the study focus Bangladesh’s sovereign rights and responsibilities in its territorial waters, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf. The article incorporates case studies such as the Hilsa fishery, the Swatch of No Ground Marine Protected Area, and international maritime boundary disputes. The findings reveal that while Bangladesh has developed a comprehensive legal framework aligned with international law, enforcement capacity, ecological vulnerabilities, and regional cooperation remain pressing challenges. The study concludes that strategic reforms, institutional strengthening, andmultilateral collaboration are essential for Bangladesh to fully harness its blue economy while preserving ecological integrity