The escalating conflict in Myanmar's Rakhine State, historically known as Arakan, has once again thrust the region into international headlines. Amid worsening violence and a deepening humanitarian crisis, the proposal of establishing a humanitarian corridor through southeastern Bangladesh, particularly via the Teknaf-Bandarban route, has gained global traction. This proposed corridor would enable the delivery of aid and medical assistance to civilians trapped in Myanmar's war-torn areas. While the initiative may appear as a gesture of compassion, it is laced with intricate geopolitical, economic and security dimensions.
The concept of a humanitarian corridor didn't appear out of nowhere. Between 2023 and 2024, major global actors such as the United Nations, European Union and several Western NGOs raised alarms about their inability to access Rakhine due to ongoing battles between Myanmar's military junta and ethnic armed groups. With key roads and communication lines destroyed, these groups proposed cross-border humanitarian access, preferably from neighboring Bangladesh.
However, the corridor idea carries more than humanitarian intent. It risks becoming a geopolitical chess piece, especially as the U.S., China and India view it through strategic lenses. China, closely allied with Myanmar's military, opposes external interference and fears that the corridor could serve as a channel for Western influence in a region it considers vital to its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The West, on the other hand, sees the corridor as a way to counter Beijing's dominance.
This is not just a logistical operation, it is a potential turning point in the country's foreign policy, regional influence and national security. Three key priorities must guide any decision:
1. Preserving national sovereignty
2. Balancing external power dynamics
3. Protecting internal stability
If not carefully managed, the corridor could evolve into a lawless zone, exploited by insurgent Rohingya factions, the Arakan Army and transnational traffickers dealing in drugs and arms. Such a scenario would destabilize critical border regions like Cox's Bazar, Bandarban and Rangamati.
There is also the historical precedent to consider. In places like East Timor and Kosovo, so-called humanitarian corridors gradually transformed into internationally governed zones, even paving the way for independence movements. Could Bangladesh face similar international entanglements if it allows foreign agencies, be they NGOs, peacekeepers or aid workers, on its soil?
India, sharing a border with Myanmar, fears that Rakhine's unrest could spread into its northeastern states like Tripura and Mizoram. It seeks influence over the corridor to contain such risks and monitor China's growing presence in the region.
China, with deep investments in Rakhine under the BRI, views the humanitarian corridor as a threat to its regional strategy. If the West gains a foothold in the corridor, Beijing may respond by tightening its grip on Myanmar or pressuring Bangladesh diplomatically.
The United States sees the corridor as a dual opportunity: to expand humanitarian access and to counter China's influence in the Bay of Bengal. It could potentially use this access to support factions like the Arakan Army as part of its broader opposition to Myanmar's military rule. In strategic terms, Washington might benefit the most if the corridor becomes reality.
Despite the risks, Bangladesh stands to gain from this initiative, if handled wisely:
l Global Reputation: Bangladesh has already shown immense generosity by hosting over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees. Facilitating aid into Rakhine would enhance its humanitarian image further.
" Border Economy Boost: A controlled corridor could stimulate local economies in Teknaf, Bandarban, and adjacent areas through aid logistics and legitimate trade.
" Better Prospects for Repatriation: If aid improves conditions in Rakhine, more Rohingya may agree to return voluntarily.
" Geopolitical Leverage: Active participation may strengthen ties with the West, China, and India, positioning Bangladesh as a critical regional player.
" Security through Regulation: A formal route could curb illegal crossings and smuggling, improving border security.
Still, vigilance is critical. Bangladesh must take firm steps to ensure that its sovereignty is not undermined. Recommended measures include:
" National Consensus: Broad consultation with political leaders, civil society and experts is essential for public legitimacy.
" Enhanced Security: Strong security protocols must be enforced, including surveillance and border monitoring.
" International Guarantees: Written assurances should be obtained from global partners ensuring that the corridor serves purely humanitarian purposes and remains under Bangladesh's control.
" Diplomatic Balance: Engage both China and India to ensure their concerns are addressed and to prevent being caught in their strategic rivalry.
" Sovereign Control: Operations within Bangladesh must be fully administered by Bangladeshi authorities, not international actors.
In conclusion, while the Rakhine humanitarian corridor could offer Bangladesh diplomatic and humanitarian dividends, it is riddled with potential dangers. Without a cautious, well-strategized approach, it could become a gateway to foreign intervention or regional instability. Bangladesh must act with clarity, unity, and prudence-ensuring that national interest remains above all else.
The writer is Head of Photography, The Daily Observer
