Bangladesh Urges Collective Action Against Misinformation at CSC Meeting

Bangladesh Calls for Collective Action Against Cyber Threats at Regional Security Forum

Bangladesh has urged member states of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) to strengthen collaborative efforts in addressing cyber security challenges and combating misinformation and disinformation campaigns, which pose growing threats to regional stability.

Speaking at the seventh meeting of National Security Advisers in New Delhi on Thursday, Bangladesh’s National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman emphasized the need for coordinated regional responses to emerging security threats in the digital domain.

“We need to articulate and implement our collective actions in facing up to the challenges of cyber security, misinformation and disinformation, and I look forward to CSC’s actions in this regard,” Rahman told delegates gathered at the high-level security forum.

The meeting brought together security officials from CSC member states, which focuses on security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. During his address, Rahman reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to the principles of sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and non-interference that form the foundation of the CSC Charter.

Rahman highlighted the importance of the conclave’s five identified pillars as crucial elements for strengthening “collective security, regional stability and shared prosperity for all members of the region.” These pillars encompass maritime safety and security, counter-terrorism, combating transnational crime, cyber security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The Bangladeshi security chief pointed to his country’s active role in maritime security efforts, the fight against piracy, combating organized maritime crimes, counter-terrorism initiatives, and enhancing cyber security measures across the region.

Bangladesh maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of extremism, Rahman noted, adding that the country “has consistently condemned global terrorism” while working to prevent violent extremism within its borders.

The rise of digital technologies and artificial intelligence has transformed the security landscape, creating new vulnerabilities that transcend national boundaries. Rahman warned that cybercrime has emerged as a significant regional concern, stating that “cyber security is thus a high priority in Bangladesh.”

He revealed that Bangladesh faces a “constant barrage of misinformation and disinformation” campaigns, highlighting the country’s commitment to securing its cyberspace, critical infrastructure, and technologies to protect its citizens from these threats.

Rahman acknowledged that individual national efforts are insufficient to address these complex challenges, echoing sentiments expressed by other participants at the forum. He called for CSC members to build stronger foundations of mutual trust and respect while pursuing shared interests as part of broader regional security cooperation.

“We do not afford to allow any exogenous or indigenous forces to challenge the security and well-being of our community and any part thereof,” Rahman stated, pledging Bangladesh’s readiness to work closely with regional partners to ensure a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Indian Ocean region.

The security adviser expressed optimism about the future evolution of the CSC, suggesting that the conclave could develop into “an open, inclusive regional multilateral organization, driven by a vision of open regionalism.”

On the sidelines of the conclave, Rahman held bilateral talks with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on Wednesday. The two officials discussed the ongoing work of the CSC and key bilateral issues between Bangladesh and India. Rahman extended an invitation for Doval to visit Bangladesh at his convenience, according to the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.

The CSC has become an increasingly important forum for security cooperation in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, addressing traditional and non-traditional security challenges through multilateral engagement and capacity building.