IPGAD’s Journey in the Recent Past
The Institute for Policy, Governance and Development (IPGAD) has been working towards advancing a comprehensive understanding of emerging security concerns within the global order—particularly through an Asia-centric lens where political transitions, economic interdependence, and strategic competition increasingly converge. Recognizing the intersection between internal political dynamics and external geopolitical pressures, IPGAD has underscored the need for states to balance geoeconomic autonomy with regional cooperation and institutional resilience. In this pursuit, the organization has undertaken a series of high-level dialogues addressing complex issues at the nexus of governance, diplomacy, and strategic policy. Its three recent initiatives—the Global Discourse on the Crisis in Nepal, the Dialogue on Bangladesh’s Regional Impact, and the MWRC-CNI Global Discourse on Rohingya Repatriation—reflect IPGAD’s evolving role as a political, social, bureaucratic, and international platform committed to shaping informed perspectives on security, governance, and development across South and Southeast Asia.
The Global Discourse on Nepal (October 5, 2025) examined the nation’s ongoing political turmoil and its wider implications across South Asia. The session, graced by eminent scholars and diplomats from Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, and the UK, explored how internal instability in Nepal could reshape regional dynamics. Dr. Isharat Hossain, IPGAD Chairman, highlighted the geopolitical rivalry between India and China as central to Nepal’s crisis. Professor Dr. Yubaraj Sangroula underscored the impact of foreign influences and internal political divisions, while Professor Dr. Kamrul Ahsan of Jahangirnagar University urged the revival of SAARC to rebuild regional trust. The discussion concluded with the reflection that Nepal’s unrest is emblematic of South Asia’s fragile democratic foundations.
The Dialogue on the Current State of Bangladesh and Its Regional Impact (December 7, 2024, Kuala Lumpur) assessed Bangladesh’s post-transition landscape and its foreign policy reorientation under the interim government led by Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. IPGAD’s Executive Director, Mohammad Alauddin, emphasized sovereignty, reform, and renewed engagement with ASEAN. Research Director Md. Mostafa Hosain noted the rise of youth participation and inclusive governance as central to Bangladesh’s new direction. Both speakers highlighted the revival of SAARC and strengthened regional ties as essential for collective progress. The discussions acknowledged Bangladesh’s internal reforms—from anti-corruption to judicial reformation—as a foundation for a more democratic and globally connected nation.
Finally, the MWRC-CNI Global Discourse on Rohingya Repatriation (May 29, 2023, Kuala Lumpur) brought together experts and policymakers from Southeast Asia to deliberate on ASEAN’s potential role in ensuring sustainable repatriation. Former Malaysian Foreign Minister Tansri Dr. Syed Hamid Albar and other distinguished speakers stressed that regional cooperation, particularly involving China, is vital for durable solutions. The discourse called for Rohingya participation in the decision-making process and greater coordination among ASEAN states, Bangladesh, and international partners to uphold humanitarian and security priorities.
Collectively, these initiatives mark IPGAD’s proactive engagement in regional peacebuilding, governance reform, and diplomatic collaboration—reinforcing its vision of promoting responsible policy dialogue and inclusive development in South and Southeast Asia.
