Abstract
The vast ocean area on which Bangladesh has sovereign rights has opened up immense potential to contribute to its economic growth and the well-being of its future generations. Bangladesh has started taking policies and initiatives to develop the blue economy since 2012. These policies and initiatives do not inform that the blue economy is holistically imagined and that actions are taken. This chapter argues for adopting a systemic development approach to promote economic growth, social equity and inclusion, and environmental conservation. Firstly, it analyzes the concept of the blue economy and notes that Bangladesh sees the blue economy from a development perspective. Secondly, the chapter identifies the lack of a centralized authorizing body in the governance of the blue economy in Bangladesh. In line with the existing scholarship, it argues to have a centralized coordination mechanism to develop the blue economy truly. A centralized coordination body will effectively ensure the communication and cooperation of various stakeholders. This centralized body will be able to understand the cross-cutting connection of different sectors of the blue economy and effectively bring different actors on board to solve any issue that arises. Against the background of Bangladesh’s perspective on a blue economy and the need for a centralized body, the chapter toward the end presents recommendations drawing on a systemic development approach. Recommendations are offered to recognize the inherent complexity of blue economy sectors and their interconnection, understand the importance of holistically conceptualizing the blue economy, formulate policies, take inclusive and gender-sensitive actions, and protect ocean health, among others. It is also suggested that policies and practices be revised based on the suggested feedback loops. By providing a fresh perspective drawing on the systemic development approach, the chapter contributes to the existing scholarship on the blue economy in Bangladesh.