Abstract
Based on the work of the Maritime Security Working Group within the Strategic Studies Network (SSN), this report provides both diagnosis and prescriptions regarding security threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The IOR, a large maritime area that extends from coastal Africa through the Middle East and South Asia and on to Australia, is a major conduit for global trade, a littoral zone of developing powers, and the focus of a series of rising security challenges. Thus, not only is the security of the IOR of major importance for IOR littoral states, it is also of vital importance for much of landlocked Africa and Asia, along with major economic powers like China, the European Union and the United States.
This collaborative report highlights two overarching themes, the first being that the IOR, while of great importance to regional/global stability, needs to be conceived of as a key strategic zone. In short, security issues in the IOR must be addressed with a sense of urgency. The second theme is that this diverse region suffers from a lack of institutions capable of bridging gaps and easing tensions. The institutions that do exist are either ineffective or are of a very specific nature. Greater attention must be directed towards building shared perspectives on security issues, particularly as they relate to non-state or non-traditional threats.
This report reflects the desire of all participating experts in this Working Group to see comprehensive strategic assessments being developed within the global foreign policy community. Thus, this report is the start of strategic dialogues that hopefully will commence among IOR littoral states. The IOR is an essential conduit that draws in Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific. It is too often conceived within the limitations of a sub-region (like South Asia, Eastern Africa or the Gulf). The IOR is full of threats, but it also offers attractive opportunities for enhancing global security. While the IOR’s littoral zones are often divided along national boundaries, the IOR is a huge maritime domain, where no single country can guarantee stability and where a maritime context may offer unique chances to bypass barriers inhibiting cooperation on land. The opportunity for enhancing security is there and it is hoped that this analysis can assist in the formation of policies that help all actors and nations.
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