As part of its lecture series, BIPSS invited US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Mr. James F. Moriarty, to deliver a key note presentation on the topic titled ‘Engaging South Asia: Obama’s South Asia Policy’. Considering the current political and economic developments in this region, US Administration views South Asia as a key partner in fighting terrorism and in global economic and political advancement. The lecture highlighted the new US administration’s policy towards South Asia, with particular focus on Bangladesh.
The Ambassador said that South Asia is now at the “centre stage” under the new policy of the Obama administration. USA has revised its strategy for troubled Pakistan and Afghanistan and exploring ally supports to contain terrorism, regionally and globally. He further stated that Washington is encouraged with Bangladesh’s pledge to fight terrorism at home and in regional level.
The ambassador emphasized on non-traditional issues also. Mr. Moriarty said, beyond a 3D (democracy, development and denial to terrorism) basis of US-Bangladesh relations, the new administration in Washington, now also incorporated issues including climate change and food security in its ties with Dhaka. The Ambassador reassured that Washington’s special engagement with New Delhi would not affect Bangladesh because of his country’s “overlapping interests” involving the countries in South Asia.
The key note presentation, made by the Ambassador, was followed by question and answer session. The audience raised a number of important questions regarding US policy towards South Asia and Bangladesh. There was a virtual question and answer session as well. A number of questions sent online by academics and researchers from other countries of South Asia were also answered by the Ambassador.
The event was concluded with the concluding remarks, made by President BIPSS.
The event was largely attended by foreign diplomats in Bangladesh, politicians, academicians, members of the civil society, researchers, journalists and students of International Relations, Dhaka University.
The region of South Asia is densely populated and natural resource constraints, especially water resource, will pose severe security threats to the states. This may eventually lead to conflict in the region.
In light of the above, Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) is organising a seminar on “Water Security of Bangladesh” on 13 July, 2009 at CIRDAP Auditorium. Prominent water experts of the country; Dr. Atiq Rahman, Mr. Mahfuz Ullah and Coloner Mahmudur Rahman Chowdhury (Retd.), will present papers at the seminar. The seminar will be presided over by President BIPSS, Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd.)
BIPSS President Speaks at Climate Change Conference in WashingtonDC
President BIPSS, Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd.) delivered a lecture at the first Conference of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS-US) Transatlantic Dialogue on Climate Change and Security. The conference commenced on 5 May, 2009 in Washington DC. General Munir spoke on “Managing Climate-induced State Threatening Crises”. His co-panelists were Brigadier general Nigel Hall (Retd.), Senior Associate Fellow, Defence Academy of the UK and Dr. Kent Butts, Director, National Security Issue Group, US Army War College. His lecture was followed by a panel discussion participated by security analysts, academics and policy makers from across the world.
The Climate Change Cell of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies organized a Roundtable discussion on “Climate Change and Conflict in Bangladesh”, on Thursday, 18 June, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in the Conference room of the BIPSS centre.
The keynote presentation was delivered by Mr. Matthijs van der Hoorn of Radboud University Nijmegen, Netherlands. Mr. Hoorn, during his presentation, examined the consequences of climate change that may cause violent conflict in Bangladesh. He put together academic debates, empirical and present evidences of climate change and analyzed the prevailing social tensions to illustrate whether the cumulative impact will lead towards inter/ intra state conflicts.
The session was presided over by President BIPSS, Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd.) and was attended by professionals and researchers from INGOs, Think Tanks and Climate Change watchdog groups.
The Key Note Presentation was followed by a lively question and answer session and came up with a number of very good recommendations from the audience to address the issue of “Climate change and conflict in Bangladesh” effectively. Mr. Hoorn is currently working with BIPSS in Dhaka on the issues of security dimensions of climate change in Bangladesh.
The issue of Climate Change is becoming a concern for Bangladesh. If the expert opinions of various national and international climate change cell proves to be true, Bangladesh will face serious consequences due to this phenomenon in the days to come. Bangladesh is among the most vulnerable states in the world facing the threats of climate change and the level of its vulnerability poses security threats to the state.
Following this, BIPSS has established a Climate Change Cell in the institute to monitor, analysis and to formulate policy recommendations for the government agencies, policy makers and foreign development partners. Our primary focus area will be the security dimensions of climate change. We are studying both the human security dimensions of climate change and the climate change related social unrest and intra/ inter state conflict.
BIPSS, under the auspices of its newly launched Climate Change Cell, will cooperate and collaborate with relevant government and donor agencies to lessen the threats posed by climate change.
President, Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS), Major General Muniruzzaman (Retd). attended the Asia Security Summit also known as the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore from 29-31 May 2009. The Asia Security Summit is an annual event organised the the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) and is the largest assembly of Defence Ministers of the Asia Pacific region, Chiefs of Armed Services, members of defence industry, heads of think tanks and security analysts.General Munir was also interviewed by Channel News Asia, a Singapore based news channel in the sidelines of the 'Asia Security Summit'. Read more ...
Subsequently, he travelled to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where he attended the Asia Pacific Roundtable organised by the Institute of Strategic and International Studies – Malaysia. The roundtable brings together security analysts and experts from across the region. An annual event held in Kuala Lumpur, it also provides a forum to discuss how tensions and beyond be lessened and greater confidence and trust fostered across the region.
In the sidelines of the two conferences, President BIPSS met and interacted with a number of senior officials and heads of other institutes from different countries. General Munir also attended the official launch of the Asian Security Initiative in Singapore.
First Roundtable on Singapore-Bangladesh relations Held
BIPSS and Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS, Singapore) jointly organized first roundtable dialogue on Singapore-Bangladesh Relations on 25 May, 2009 in Singapore.
A four member delegation from Bangladesh led by President BIPSS, Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd.), went to visit Singapore in the month of May 2009. The dialogue topics encompassed a wide range of issues that are of interest for both the countries; Singapore and Bangladesh. Both the institutes presented papers on domestic economic developments (of respective countries), regional security architecture, evolving regional relations in South and Southeast Asia and future of regional groupings in South and Southeast Asia (SAARC, ASEAN).
The roundtable dialogue will essentially play a noteworthy role in strengthening Singapore-Bangladesh relations and furthering regional cooperation.
The first BIPSS-ISAS roundtable dialogue on Singapore-Bangladesh Relations will be held in Singapore on May 25.
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) and Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS, Singapore) will jointly organise the roundtable, said a press release. Read more...
President BIPSS speaks at the World Social Science Forum (WSSF)
Bergen, Norway
Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd.) spoke at the World Social Science Forum (WSSF) in Bergen, Norway. This was a major International Conference in the field of Social Science, with a view to formulating strategies to counter social and political threats faced by nations. The conference was attended by social scientists, policy planners, leading institutes from all over the world. The WSSF invited selected speakers to speak t different panels and General Muniruzzaman spoke on the theme of “The Future of Armed Conflict”. The conference ended with rich findings in different areas of study.
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) in collaboration with SaferWorld organized a Round-table on Bangladesh Community Safety Pilot Process on 26 May 2009, at Hotel Sheraton. To enhance community safety in Bangladesh, this project is designed to test participatory approaches to community safety and security. This concept was developed from experience in other regions including South Eastern Europe and Africa. The process involved civil society and local authorities working together to enhance community safety and security by addressing problems identified by communities. Two pilot sites were selected in Hajirgol village, Kishorganj and Kamrangir Char Slums, Dhaka city. This model could be adopted at the national level and replicated across Bangladesh.
The international community has suffered, in recent days, from newly surfaced infectious diseases. The present international system is more globally interdependent than any other time in history. The process of globalization has increased the pace of global travel, migration, and trade significantly in recent decades which have heightened the risk of a global infectious disease outbreak. The recent pandemic which started in Mexico hit almost all the countries of Europe. The spread of infectious disease can have significant effects on national and international security, in destabilizing nations and regions. This may end up resulting in shocking economic and social loss. This Issue Brief explains the links between infectious diseases and national security and then analyses how such diseases pose threats to transnational security and why holistic and non-linear approach are essential to fight such threats. Read More ...
The threat of suicide terrorism poses challenges for many societies and countries, Bangladesh is no exception. To study and analyze this issue, BIPSS Research Analyst Mr. Shafqat Munir, on secondment at International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research, A Centre of S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, has co-authored an article in the current issue of CTC Sentinel on the subject.
The CTC Sentinel is a global publication on issues of terrorism and violence of the Combating Terrorism Center based in United States Military Academy, West Point. It harnesses the Center’s global network of scholars and practitioners to understand and confront contemporary threats posed by terrorism and other forms of political violence.
BIPSS President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd.) has concluded his lecture and speaking engagements in Norway and London. President BIPSS visited prestigious think tanks in Oslo, Norway to deliver lectures. He delivered lectures on “South Asian Security Architecture” in Norwegian Institute of International affairs (NUPI), “State Security and Insecurity in South Asia” in Norwegian Defence Research Establishment and on “Regional Security and Stability in South Asia” in Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO), Norway. He also delivered a talk in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway on “Bangladesh and its place in South Asia”. Senior Norwegian diplomats attended the event. General Munir, during his Norway visit, also met the Secretary General of Norwegian Atlantic Committee, senior officials of Telenor, Norway and made a call on with the Mayor of Oslo.
General Munir attended a number of meetings and had interactions with British think tanks during his London visit in the second week of April. He visited International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) and Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) to attend important meetings with the officials of the respective institutes. He was also interviewed by the BBC World Service Television and BBC Bangla Radio Service during his stay in London.
On 25 and 26 February 2009, over a period spanning thirty six hours, Dhaka was torn apart by a bloody mutiny. Members of the Bangladesh Rifles, a paramilitary force which guards Bangladesh’s borders, took up arms in revolt ...
By Shafqat Munir, BIPSS Research Analyst based in ICPVTR, Singapore. Read more ...
Royal United Services InstituteIndependent Talking on Defence and Security Studies
The BDR Mutiny in Bangladesh:Understanding the National and Regional Implications
Bangladesh is still reeling from the massacre of army officers at the hands of mutinous members of the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR). The tragedy has left an indelible mark on the country’s psyche. As a spate of urgent enquires are launched to determine the reasons behind the February 2009 bloodbath, the country is vulnerable and open to exploitation by an assortment of militants.
By Shafqat Munir, BIPSS Research Analyst based in ICPVTR, Singapore.Read more ...
The latest edition of Peace and Security Review (First Quarter, 2009) has been published. Both nationally and internationally renowned scholars, academicians and policy makers have contributed in the current volume of this journal.
INSIDE the Journal
Mumbai Investigation: The Operatives, Masterminds and Enduring Threat Rohan Gunaratna
The Rise of China and its Growing Footprint in the Region: Stratesic Implications for South Asia S. Mahmud Ali
Is the Military Ready for the Information Age: The Challenge of Sharing and Security Dr. Paul T. Mitchell
Asia at the Crossroads of History: A View from Southeast Asia Asad-ul Iqbal Latif
The Changing International Security Landscape and the Challenges for National and Regional Security Policy Wilfried von Bredow
Armed Groups: Studies in National Security,Counterterrorism and Counterinsurgency Reviewed by Nusrat Zahan
BIPSS Issue Brief on “Water Security” is focused on the shortage of water that Bangladesh faces besides being a river-reign country. A complete and fair valuation of the resource, sustainability of ecosystems at all parts of the hydrologic cycle and an equitable and cooperative sharing of water resources is very necessary. This paper addresses the major causes of water scarcity and the adverse impact of this threat on Bangladesh, including few recommendations.Read more ...
BIPSS- The Bangladesh Today Roundtable on BDR mutiny held
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) in collaboration with The Bangladesh Today arranged a round-table on BDR Mutiny: Security Implications for Bangladesh and the region at the conference room of The Bangladesh on Saterday, March 21, 2009. Read more
* Key note Presentation on "BDR Mutiny: Security Implications for Bangladesh and the Region"by Khaled Iqbal Chowdhury, Research Associate, BIPSS, Part 1Part 2
* Paper Presentation on "Institutional Capacity and the State" by Mahmudur Rahman Chowdhury, Editor, The Bangladesh Today, Part 1Part 2Part 3
A bloody mutiny took place in Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) headquarters, Dhaka on 25 February 2009. Over 65 people, including senior BDR officers, were brutally killed. The incident has deep security implications for Bangladesh and the region. Read more ...
Disclaimer: Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) is the sole owner of all work, materials and other results (the result) generated through this report under Intellectual Property Right Act of Bangladesh. None is entitled to publish & reprint without the prior written permission of BIPSS.
International conference on “Counter Terrorism Strategy for South Asia” held
International conference titled “Counter Terrorism Strategy for South Asia” (CTS for SA), was held on 24 and 25 February 2009 at Radisson Water Garden Hotel in Dhaka, Organized by BIPSS. BIPSS has undertaken a regional research project in the field of Counter Terrorism Strategy (CTS).
The conference consisted of 2 segments; inaugural session and 4 working sessions. Dr. Dipu Moni, Honorable Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, graced the inaugural session as chief guest. Foreign Minister Dr Dipu Moni reiterated Dhaka's call for intensified regional cooperation to fight terrorism saying nothing short of the expected mutual collaboration could enable the South Asian nation to effectively face the growing menace.
As mentioned earlier, BIPSS organized the two-day meet on Counter Terrorism Strategy for South Asia while its chief Major General (retd) ANM Muniruzzaman said "This is a big initiative in a small scale".
Norwegian Institute of International Affairs fellow Laila Bukhari presented a keynote paper at the opening of the conference saying the world should have learned at least one thing from the terror attack on the United States and that was "militants can't be faced militarily". She suggested exploring ways for terrorist rehabilitation and intensified de-radicalization campaign.
All the South Asian Regional Research Forum (SARRF) member countries (Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal) attended the conference with their own delegations and presented two papers each during the conference. Besides, there were 3 key note presentations from noted terrorism experts from Singapore, Spain and Norway. A number of international experts also attended the conference from USA, Canada, Norway, Singapore, India, Australia, New Zealand and Germany etc.
Foreign and Commonwealth office, London exchanged views with BIPSS
On 15 February 2009 Shobana Patel, Research Analyst, Foreign and Commonwealth office, London along with Simon Lever, First Secretary (Political), British High Commission, Dhaka came to visit BIPSS to exchange views about the current political scenario of Bangladesh after the newly elected democratic government, terrorism, and government’s counter terrorism strategies, especially about the joint task force that was mentioned by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. They were also interested about the current challenges of Bangladesh and the government strategies to face those.
Australian High Commissioner
visits BIPSS
New Australian High Commissioner Dr. Justin Lee visited BIPSS on 12 February 2009 accompanied by the Deputy High Commissioner of Australian High Commission.
President of BIPSS, Major General Muniruzzaman gave H.E. a brief on past, current and future projects of BIPSS. Ambassador showed his interest in maritime challenges of the country, terrorism and government’s counter terrorism strategies. H.E. also wanted to know the structures and activities of the joint Task Force that our newly elected Prime Minister mentioned. President discussed about the security challenges of Bangladesh in mid and long terms.
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) becomes the partner of Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS). A five member delegation from SIIS visited Bangladesh during 4-8 February, ’09 at the invitation of BIPSS. BIPSS President Major General Muniruzzaman ndc, psc, (Retd) and SIIS President Prof.Yang Jiemian singed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at BIPSS office after an in house discussion on 7th February, ’09, then exchanged the documents of the MoU. They hope to develop the relationship between the two institutes in the future and contribute together in the track two level interaction and thus contribute to the policy making level.
APCSS Director LTG (Ret) Ed Smith visits BIPSS
LTG (Ret) Ed Smith, Director, Asia Pacific Centre for Security Studies (APCSS) visited BIPSS and had a meeting with BIPSS President Major General Muniruzzaman ndc, psc, (Retd) on 2nd February, ’09. LTG Smith was accompanied by Lt Col Brian Nelson, Director, Strategic Initiatives Group, APCSS and MAJ Mark L. Pralat, Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation U.S. Embassy, Dhaka, Bangladesh. They talked about post election situation of Bangladesh and future of democracy in Bangladesh. BIPSS President briefed them about the security challenges of Bangladesh like terrorism, energy, food, environment etc issues and discussed about how APCSS and USA can help Bangladesh to fight against the challenges.
The first track-II level India-Bangladesh dialogue was held from 19-20 January 2009 in New Delhi, India. The “USI-BIPSS Indo-Bangladesh Dialogue” is as a major Track II initiative aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh. The dialogue was aimed at discussing various issues of mutual concerns and to deepen people to people interaction between the two countries. The dialogue will be an annual initiative which will be held alternately in Dhaka and New Delhi. The next dialogue will be held in Dhaka in 2010.
The four member delegation headed by Major General Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (Retd) included Dr. S Mahmud Ali, Mr. Shafqat Munir, Ms. Ayreen Khan.
The dialogue had a total of four sessions. Each session covered different topics. Both sides presented on each of the topics which were mutually decided. The issues covered included South Asian Security, The Changing Strategic Landscape, Bilateral Relations and Terrorism and Militancy. The sessions were chaired by eminent individuals.
In addition to the dialogue the BIPSS delegation also attended seminars and interacted with other Indian think tanks. The delegation visited National Martime Foundation, Centre for Land Warfare Studies, Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies and Academy of Third World Studies at Jamia Milia Islamia University.
In House Discussion on “Non-Traditional Security Threat to India and its Neighborhood”
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) has arranged an In House Discussion with Lt Gen Y M Bammi, Ph.D (Retd) 19th February, ‘09. General Bammi, who holds the Chair of Excellence at Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi. The round table was headed by BIPSS president Major General Muniruzzaman(Retd), ndc, psc and attended by selected academia, members of press and BIPSS faculty. General Bammi gave a lecture on Non-Traditional Security Threat to India and identified the issues of terrorism, proliferation of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, piracy, illegal migration, trafficking of arms and drugs, money laundering and environmental security, etc as non traditional threats to India’s security. BIPSS President raised some issues like expansion of Maoist threat in India, disease security, Hindu extremism, food security, and terrorism. He also mentioned about the spill over effects of these issues affecting the neighboring states. From Indo-Bangla bilateral perspective, important discussion was also taken place regarding the maritime boundary, border disputes, illegal trade, trade imbalance and water sharing etc issues.
President BIPSS Addressed British Parliamentarians
President BIPSS, Major General Muniruzzaman (Retd.) had delivered a number of lectures in the United Kingdom in the first week of December 2008. He spoke to a group of British parliamentarians in a committee room in the House of Commons on 02 December. The title of his lecture was 'Bangladesh at the Crossroad: Democracy and Radicalization Amidst Emerging Security Architecture of South Asia. The event was hosted by the Hon. Bernard Jenkin MP, a member of the Defence Select Committee of British Parliament. He also delivered a lecture at the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) titled 'Bangladesh Elections and Prospects. During his visit, he met the Asia team at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). General Munir appeared in BBC World TV news programmed focusing on South Asia on 01 December.
Round Table on “Weak and Soft States in South Asia”
BIPSS organized a Round Table on “Weak and SoftStates in South Asia: The Security Dilemma”. The key note presentation was delivered by Professor T V Paul, James McGill Professor of International Relations, Department of Political Science at McGill University, Montreal, Canada. The program was held on Thursday, 8th January, 2009 at the Conference Hall of Hotel Lake Castle, House # 1A, Road 68/A, Gulshan 2, Dhaka. Professor Paul specializes and teaches courses in international relations, specially international security, international conflict & conflict resolution, regional security and South Asia. BIPSS President A N M Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc (Retd) presided over the session.
Major General Muniruzzaman, President BIPSS, discusses the country's upcoming elections and the security situation in the region following the Mumbai attacks.
"Bangladesh at the crossroads:
Democracy, radicalisation and terrorism amidst the emerging security challenges of South Asia" President BIPSS,
Major General Muniruzzaman, 4pm, 2nd December 2008 Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, House of Commons.
President BIPSS Major General Muniruzzaman at the 7th IISS Asia Security Summit commonly known as the Shangri-La Dialogue
Major General ANM Muniruzzaman at Shangri-La Dialogue
Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies, remarked that international naval exercises conducted recently in the Indian Ocean had aroused concern in China and other countries. Might these be part of efforts to contain China’s rise? Lee didn’t believe any containment strategy would be attempted, or would succeed. ‘None of the countries in the region wants to take sides between China and an adversary,’ he said. It was strongly in Washington’s interest to develop constructive relations with Beijing, given the mutual interest in trade and investment, as well as in issues such as global warming and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Problems would arise, whether over the exchange rate, the trade deficit, human rights or intellectual property. If the relationship was sound, these could be discussed without the countries being at loggerheads. ‘On that basis, there is room for countries in Asia to be friends with both sides. This is what we earnestly wish to do.
Please click the link below to download and read a copy of the newly released white paper on. "The Asian Security Landscape after the Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq" by Council for Asian Terrorism Research (CATR). BIPSS is a leading member of this major network of prominent think tanks in the Asia pacific region and the USA. This paper is a result of a strategic forecasting study carried out by CATR in which BIPSS played a major role. The white paper was released in the CATR Bi-Annual Conference. Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (retd.)is a member of CATR Board of Governors (BOG).
High Commissioner of Canada, Robert McDougall visited Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) on 4 November 2008.
President, BIPSS Major General Muniruzzaman (Retd.) briefed the High Commissioner about the various activities undertaken by the institute including the recently launched South Asian Regional Research Forum (SAARF). It was followed by a discussion on various issues of mutual interest which included South Asian security, the rise of China and India and its impact on South Asia and the threat of terrorism and militancy in the region. The High Commissioner also met members of the BIPSS research team during his visit.
BIPSS President attended CATR BoG meeting in Japan
The President of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) Major General Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc (Retd) visted Tokyo to attend the Board of Governors Meeting of the Council of Asian Terrorism Research (CATR). General Munir is a member of CATR Board of Governors (BOG).
In addition, he also spoke on 'Transnational Threats Facing South Asia' at the CATR Bi-Annual Conference. He also spoke at a CATR public event on 'The Threat of Terrorism Facing Bangladesh' and at a conference of Nuclear Proliferation in Tokyo.
BIPSS has become a partner institution of the Consortium for Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CCFT). CCFT is a key forum vigorously engaged in policy formulation and implementation to counter money laundering and terrorist financing in the Asia Pacific region. The consortium develops public and private sector partnership with government institutions, financial industry, research community and other stakeholders in this regard.
CCFT has established affiliation with several key institutions such as Government of Singapore, The Association of Banks in Singapore, S.Rajaratnam School for International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, World-Check-UK, National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) and others.
The inclusion of BIPSS in CCFT is a major recognition to its proactive role against terrorist financing. It is to be added that BIPSS organized an International Workshop on Countering the Financing of Terrorism in Dhaka last August in joint collaboration with CCFT. BIPSS will also undertake some major activities in this critical area of counter terrorism in the near future.
BIPSS President invited to speak at US Homeland Security Summit in Hawaii.
BIPSS President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (Retd.) delivered lecture at the United States Homeland Security Summit and Exposition in Hawaii. BIPSS President was invited to the summit by the Governor of the State of Hawaii and The US department of Homeland Security. The President delivered his talks on the following theme; Scientific Research for Homeland Security: Fostering International Partnerships. The summit was scheduled to hold on October 8-10, 2008 at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel, Hawaii.
The summit offered a rich venue for leaders from various avenues to interact with each other and develop strategies to address shared security challenges and concerns. This year's summit partnered with the US Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate.It provided the attendees with a rare opportunity of open discussions on rich agenda, provocative debates and networking.
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS), Australian National University (ANU) and the Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology (MOSICT) jointly handed over the eGovernment strategy paper to the Government of Bangladesh at a ceremony held in a local hotel. Professor M Tanim, honorable Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, was invited to the program as chief guest.
The strategy paper is the outcome of an AusAID funded Public Service Linkage Program (PSLP) on eGovernment capacity building through knowledge transfer and best practice development in Bangladesh. BIPSS is a partner institution of this project.
BIPSS President speaks on Asymmetrical Security in Singapore
BIPSS President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (Retd.) was invited to deliver talk on asymmetrical security in an international conference in Singapore. The conference was hosted by National University of Singapore (NUS), in association with Centre of Excellence in Policing and Security (CEPS), Australian National University (ANU), Griffith University and International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU).
There is growing evidence that asymmetrical security threats have become a strategy choice among extremist political and terrorist groups. Asymmetrical combatants use covert and unconventional combat tactics and seek to avoid direct military encounters with the adversaries' vastly superior armed forces.
General Munir in his talk emphasized on the ill preparedness of nation states against asymmetrical threats posed by terror outfits across the globe. The conference was also attended by prominent security experts from all around the world.
A six-day workshop on eGovernment capacity building through knowledge transfer and best practice development for senior level officials began here this morning at the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) Auditorium here.
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology (MOSICT) of the Government of Bangladesh and Australian National University (ANU) are holding the workshop.
Norwegian Ambassador Ms. Ingebjørg Støfring visited Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) on the 17 September, 2008.
The Ambassador had a round of talks with the BIPSS President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc (Retd.) who was accompanied by BIPSS research wing. Various issues of mutual interests came up during the meeting. The Ambassador termed Bangladesh as a peaceful nation and emphasized on strengthening bilateral relations. BIPSS President briefed her on the present disturbing terror and security commotions in the neighboring states, which will pose a security threat to the entire region. Later, a wide array of issues involving peace, security and development of the region and beyond came up for the discussion.
BIPSS organized a round table on “The Asia Pacific Region: Issues and Concerns”
____
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) organized a roundtable discussion on "The Asia Pacific Region: Issues and Concerns". The roundtable was held on the 23rd August in the conference room of BIPSS. Discussion in the roundtable highlighted the current and emerging security issues of the Asia Pacific.
The President of BIPSS, Major General ANM Muniruzzman ndc, psc, (Retd), presided over the session and delivered the opening remarks. General Munir emphasized on developing regional cooperation to effectively deal with the transnational challenges.
Professor James (Jim) Veitch was the key speaker at the occasion. Professor Veitch is a faculty member of the School of Government, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand (NZ). He is presently the Non-ASEAN Co-Chair of the Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP) and is also the co-chair of CSCAP NZ.
The roundtable included an array of issues. Main discussion centered on the Dawn of the Asia Pacific Century, Climate Change and Security in the Asia Pacific Region, the Emerging Security Architecture in the Asia Pacific Region and Rise of China as Global Power: Strategic Implications in the Asia Pacific Region. Nevertheless, the talks in the roundtable were not confined to the stated topics only, but extended to the concern of nuclear proliferation, military buildup in the region, global and regional politics.
The speakers at the discussion also opined on humanitarian issues; food and energy security, migration, human trafficking and pandemic. The roundtable was attended by former ambassador and government officials, academics, researchers, who shared knowledge and observations.
International Workshop on Countering The Financing of Terrorism held
The International Workshop on Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT), organized by Bangladesh Centre for Terrorism Research (BCTR), a specialized organ of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and security Studies (BIPSS), in collaboration with International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research (ICPVTR), Singapore and WORLD-CHECK, London, was held at Dhaka. This is the first workshop on this critical area of study in Bangladesh. BIPSS conceptualized this workshop to emphasize on and to highlight the issue of terror financing. Prominent, local and international, experts on the CFT spoke in the workshop. The 2-day long workshop held on August 5 and 6 began with the inaugural speech by President of BIPSS, Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (Retd). He with his apt proficiency and professional deliberation introduced to the participants to the complex pattern of terror financing. He said, “Money in the hand of terrorists is the money that kills innocent people and therefore there is an urgent need to fight it.”
The key note paper was presented by Brig Gen ATM Amin, psc, Director of CTIB, HQ DGFI. He said that Bangladesh crucially needed to introduce digital accounting system to sharpen the vigil to combat terror financing. Brig Gen Amin also said when a criminal activity generates substantial profits the individual or group involved must find a way to hide the funds without drawing attention from others. Internationally acclaimed experts on CFT; Mr. Arabinda Acharya (Manager Strategic Projects, ICPVTR, Singapore), Ms. Sujoyini Mandal (Research Analyst, ICPVTR, Singapore), Mr. Jolene Jerard (Manager Analyst, ICPVTR, Singapore), Mr. Jay Jhaveri (Director, Asia World-Check, UK) and John Solomon (Head, Terrorism and Insurgency Research Unit, World Check, UK ), presented extensive resource papers on the varied aspects of CFT in this workshop. Nominated professionals from Banks, financials institutions, ministries, law enforcement and intelligence agencies, academia, media and foreign missions in Bangladesh participated in this workshop, meant to play a critical role in building capacity of the related institutions in countering money laundering and terrorist financing. Each participant was awarded a certificate of participation after the concluding session. After the workshop Gen. Muniruzzaman, President of BIPSS, told a press briefing that the workshop was organized to help professionals in private and public sectors to have knowledge of financing of terrorism. He said that one of the best ways to combat terrorist groups is to cut off their flow of money and deny the source of fund. More details...
Dutch Ambassador Ms. Bea Tentusscher, along with Ms. Anja Roelofs, First secretary, Political, Press and Cultural Affiars visited Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) in August, 2008.
They met BIPSS President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc,psc (Retd.) and discussed about the present security issues of the world, specially the current nature of terrorism and spread of Islamic radicalism in the world and Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s political scenario was also discussed in the meeting.
BIPSS President briefed the Ambassador on the rise of Islamic radicalism and Terrorism and its changing nature in the world, likewise in Bangladesh.
The President of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS), Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (Retd.), along with the Secretary for the Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology of the Government of Bangladesh, Mr. Shaikh Mohammad Wahid-uz-Zaman visited Canberra to attend the final workshop on Drafting of an E-governance Strategy for Bangladesh. This is a joint project of Australian National University (ANU), BIPSS and Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology (MOSICT). The final strategy paper will be jointly presented to the government at a launching ceremony in October this year. BIPSS president also attended a number of meetings, including a meeting with the Vice Chancellor of ANU.
BIPSS President speaks at Australian National University (ANU)
The President of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS), Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, (Retd.) delivered a talk at a roundtable held at the college of Asia and Pacific at Australian National University (ANU). He covered two themes in his delivery at two different segments. The first one was on peace building operations titled “New Dimensions of Peace Operations” and the second segment was on the Emerging Security Architecture in South Asia. Prominent academics, members of the ministries, faculty, students of ANU and others participated in the roundtable. The talk was followed by a lively question-answer session that brought up many issues of current concern.
BIPSS signing a MOU with Argentine Council for Foreign Relations
Driven by the essence of greater inter regional connectivity for promoting and reinforcing mutual cooperation, exchange
of information and improvement of research and academic programmes, Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies
BIPSS) and Argentine Council for Foreign Relations have agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). BIPSS
President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc,psc (Retd.) who is now engaging in weeks long lecture tour in Argentina
will represent BIPSS at the signing ceremony. The purpose of the MOU between the BIPSS and Argentine Council for
Foreign Relations is to improve the scientific and academic levels of the two Institutes, to promote and intensify the
friendship and the mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries in general, and the two Institutes in
particular.
President of BIPSS Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc (Retd) visited Argentina at the invitation of Council for Argentine Foreign Relations, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the week long visit to Argentina, BIPSS President delivered lecture at University of Salvador at Buenos Aires and the Joint Session of Argentine Academy for Asian and African Studies. As part of the extensive country wide visit General Muniruzzaman also spoke in National University at Mar Del Plata and University at La Plata. He represented the BIPSS in the signing ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding with the Council for Argentine Foreign Relations to facilitate joint and collaborative work and research on areas of common interest. New programs were also expected to be worked out between the two institutes to enhance further co operation in the future.
BIPSS President Speaks at the Conference on "Anticipating Threats in a Connected World"
Canada, 13-16 April 2008
President of BIPSS Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc (Retd.) visited Vancouver, Canada to attend a conference that highlighted on the global security and emerging threats in current world. The President presented his key note paper on "The Process of Violent Radicalization in Bangladesh: Problems and Challenges". Delegates from seventy five countries including high level policy makers, security and private sector experts attended the conference. Different papers were presented by leading experts on key issues of the theme at the conference.
Mission on Building UN Counter Terrorism Strategy Visits BIPSS
The mission on the study to identify good practices of Development Assistance in support of building Counter Terrorism Capacity visited Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) on April 1, 2008. Members of the Mission Mr. Julian Elgaard Brett and Erik Bryld met BIPSS President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc,psc (Retd.) and discussed various about their mission in Bangladesh.
BIPSS President and Mission delegates have agreed that the visiting mission would have a fruitful time in Bangladesh and would be able to find effective means to assist in building capacity for counter terrorism.
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) in collaboration with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Goethe-Institut Bangladesh jointly organized a roundtable titled 'Strategic Change.' The roundtable held in the auditorium of the Goethe Institut Dhaka, was attended by a large number of strategic experts, scholars, politicians, civil society members and the diplomatic community. In his opening remarks Major General ANM Muniruzzaman, ndc, psc, President, BIPSS identified four key dynamics of strategic change, these are: traditional, irregular, catastrophic and disruptive. The roundtable had four sub-themes. These are: 'The Changing Nature of Great Power Relationship', 'The Rise of China and its Strategic Implications', 'The Rise of India and its Strategic Implications', and 'The Dawn of the Asia Pacific Century'. The panelists were Dr. Wilfried von Bredow, Institute of Political Science, Philipps-University Marburg, Germany, Dr. S. M. Ali, Senior Editorial Coordinator, Asia Pacific Region, BBC, London and Muhammad Zamir, Former Secretary and Ambassador. more..
BIPSS-German International Seminar "The Changing Strategic Landscape: New Challenges and Realities"
________
Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) and the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Dhaka organized an International Seminar on “The Changing Strategic Landscape: New Challenges and Realities".
Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, Adviser for the Education and Commerce Ministry, Government of People’s Republic of Bangladesh attended the seminar as chief guest. Dr. Zillur identified some key aspects like quality professional combined with deep insight and excellence; culture bound social values united with cohesive and moral values to deal with the new threats and landmarks that emerged in the strategic environment in recent years. He hoped that BIPSS will arrange such kinds of Seminar and Dialogue to understand the fast changing world that will become too complex in future.
Presided over by BIPSS President, Major General A N M Muniruzzaman, the inaugural session was also addressed by Mr. Frank Meyke, German ambassador in Dhaka. General Muniruzzaman indicated that the rise of major power is a strategic reality now. It is also a reality that the nature of uni-polarity is not permanent as there are clear symptoms of the growth of multi-polarity in the global strategic landscape. He said that Bangladesh is positioned between two of the World's largest growing economies and rising powers. Therefore it is very important to understand and comprehend the changes that are emerging in the world arena. more..
.gif){kind=small}
