Analysis of the Indian Region starting with Darshana Baruah’s latest book “The contest for the Indian Ocean,” The Geopolitical Importance of the Indian Ocean: A Strategic Hub for Global Power Dynamics
The Indian Ocean has become a key focal point for geopolitical competition, especially as major global powers vie for dominance. Baruah’s insightful analysis emphasizes the region’s increasing significance in global politics, highlighting its role in maritime security and international trade. As the Indian Ocean continues to gain attention, its strategic importance cannot be overstated, particularly in the context of rising U.S.-China rivalry.
The “Island View”: Small Island Nations Gain Influence
Baruah introduces the “Island View” concept, focusing on small island nations in the Indian Ocean, such as Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, and Comoros. These nations, located near critical maritime chokepoints, have gained increasing geopolitical significance. Their proximity to vital sea lanes, essential for energy trade, makes them influential players in the region’s evolving power dynamics.
These island states are no longer passive actors. They are actively shaping regional geopolitics through strategic partnerships and economic engagement. Baruah argues that the Indian Ocean should be viewed as a unified region rather than isolated countries, with island nations playing a more prominent role in shaping the region’s future.
China’s Expanding Influence
China has steadily increased its presence in the Indian Ocean, significantly influencing regional geopolitics. The region’s stability is crucial for global trade, with key shipping lanes connecting Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. China’s investments in infrastructure, such as ports and logistics facilities, are reshaping the balance of power in the area.
Baruah highlights China’s establishment of a military base in Djibouti and plans for further expansion. This growing presence challenges the traditional balance, as China seeks to increase its global influence. The use of “research vessels” by China, potentially serving both commercial and military purposes, raises concerns about Beijing’s long-term strategy in the Indian Ocean.
U.S.-China Rivalry: The Indian Ocean as a Central Arena
The U.S.-China rivalry is intensifying in the Indian Ocean, which Baruah considers a key arena for competition. The region’s importance in global trade and energy security makes it a focal point for both powers. While the U.S. has historically focused on the Western Pacific, its presence in the Indian Ocean has been limited. Baruah critiques the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy for its narrow focus and calls for greater engagement in the Indian Ocean.
To counter China’s growing influence, the U.S. has increasingly strengthened its regional partnerships. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), comprising India, Japan, Australia, and the U.S., represents one such effort. Baruah argues that to maintain strategic balance, the U.S. must engage more deeply with island nations and the broader Indian Ocean region.
Regional Powers: France and India
France and India are key regional players in the Indian Ocean. France’s overseas territories in the southwestern Indian Ocean play a significant role in regional security. India, historically focused on land borders, is now re-engaging with the Indian Ocean but is criticized for its limited naval priorities. Baruah suggests that this focus on land-based forces has allowed China to expand its influence in the region.
India must work more closely with island nations to enhance maritime security and take advantage of the Indian Ocean’s strategic importance. Baruah advocates for stronger collaborations with island states to maintain regional dominance and counteract China’s rising influence.
The Blue Economy: A Strategic Priority for Island States
The blue economy, focusing on sustainable use of marine resources and enhancing maritime security, is becoming increasingly important for island nations. These countries control vast Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and are prioritizing the protection of their marine resources. Addressing issues like illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is central to their security concerns.
Island nations like Mauritius and Seychelles are taking the lead in promoting blue economy initiatives. Baruah emphasizes how these countries are diversifying security partnerships to protect their maritime resources, marking a shift from relying on traditional powers to more independent strategies for maritime governance.
The Future of the Indian Ocean: Emerging Challenges and Opportunities
Looking ahead, Baruah identifies several key challenges for the Indian Ocean, including the growing militarization of the region and the strategic use of fishing as a geopolitical tool. The underwater domain will become increasingly significant, with security concerns surrounding undersea cables and deep-sea mining activities.
The author also notes the growing influence of emerging regional players, such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, although he acknowledges that these nations’ roles deserve more exploration. As global powers like India, China, and France continue to shape the Indian Ocean, smaller states will also play a key role in the region’s future geopolitics.
Conclusion: A Unified Geopolitical Space
Baruah’s analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the Indian Ocean’s growing geopolitical significance. By focusing on the rise of island nations, the intensifying U.S.-China rivalry, and the importance of the blue economy, the book offers valuable insights into the future of this vital maritime region. The Indian Ocean is no longer just a trade route; it is a central theater for global competition, with far-reaching implications for security, global trade, and sustainable development. As great powers continue to vie for influence, the Indian Ocean will remain a key battleground in shaping the future of international relations.