Is BIMSTEC failing?

Is the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) destined to die before making any notable progress in meeting its avowed objectives?

The way things have been going on one has reasons to foresee such a possibility. The postponement of the forum's 6th summit, scheduled to be held in Bangkok from September 2-4, could only strengthen such a pessimistic notion. Since its inception 26 years ago, the only 5 BIMSTEC summits have been held. Some people in the region, however, tend to believe that it is not yet a lost case.

This lack of continuity and infrequent meetings undermine the momentum necessary for any sustained regional cooperation.

Established in 1997 with the goal of enhancing economic cooperation and regional integration among its seven member states-Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand-BIMSTEC represents a unique bridge between South and Southeast Asia. Despite its potential, however, the organisation has often been criticised for its sluggish progress and lack of visibility.

BIMSTEC was created with high hopes, envisioned as a platform to promote regional cooperation, peace, and prosperity in the Bay of Bengal region. The member states, which collectively account for nearly 22 per cent of the world's population, are located in one of the least integrated regions globally. The organisation aims to address this by fostering connectivity, economic collaboration, and socio-cultural ties. In theory, BIMSTEC's ambitions are commendable; in practice, however, its achievements have been very limited.

Moreover, while member states have committed to various initiatives, including a Free Trade Agreement signed in 2004, these agreements have yet to be fully implemented. The delay in executing these projects reflects a deeper issue: BIMSTEC's lack of institutional capacity and political will.

BIMSTEC has often been seen as an alternative to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which has been largely paralysed by the long-standing rivalry between India and Pakistan. BIMSTEC was expected to fill the void. However, BIMSTEC's performance has not lived up to these expectations. Much like SAARC, BIMSTEC has struggled to maintain regular dialogue and cooperation among its members.

The reasons for this are manifold. BIMSTEC, like SAARC, operates on the principle of non-interference in bilateral disputes, which is viewed as both strength and weaknesses. While this principle prevents the organisation from being bogged down by individual-level conflicts, it also limits its ability to address critical security and political issues that affect regional stability. The organisation's slow progress in areas like public health and climate change further illustrates its operational challenges. Despite identifying these areas as priorities, BIMSTEC has yet to develop concrete mechanisms for cooperation.

Despite these challenges, some people are still pinning hopes on the BIMSTEC. Recent developments suggest a renewed commitment among member states to revitalize the organization. The frequency of meetings has increased, and the adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter in 2022, after 23 years of deliberation, marks a significant step toward institutional strengthening. This new charter, along with the Kathmandu Declaration from the 2018 summit, outlines a clearer vision for the organization's future, including reforms to enhance its effectiveness.

Furthermore, BIMSTEC has made strides in specific areas, particularly in promoting connectivity. Projects aimed at improving transportation links, such as road, rail, and port development, are underway, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of physical connectivity for economic growth.

For BIMSTEC to succeed, however, much more needs to be done. The organisation's Secretariat, currently headed by a Secretary General with limited authority, must be empowered to play a more proactive role in coordinating and implementing regional initiatives.

Additionally, member states must develop a minimum consensus on key economic, political, and security issues. National interests should be aligned with regional priorities, and a collective commitment to overcome narrow, self-serving agendas is essential. Without such consensus, BIMSTEC risks becoming another ineffective regional organisation, unable to meet the expectations of its members or deliver tangible benefits to its people.

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