Catalyzing Sustainable Prosperity in the Bay of Bengal Region

Bridging Politics, Policy, and Governance for People and Planet

Who We Are

BRIDGE (Bay of Bengal Research Institute for Democratic Governance, Economy and Environment) is a think-and-do institute advancing democracy, governance, and climate resilience in the Bay of Bengal. We seek to blend evidence-based research with policy innovation and on-the-ground action to address the region’s most pressing and interconnected challenges.

BRIDGE is built on over 25 years of the founding directors’ extensive experiences both in the Global South and North at the intersection of grassroots projects, policy advocacy, and scholarly work in academia, INGOs, think tanks, and international organizations such as the UN.

BRIDGE’s mission is guided and shaped by a diverse network of leading academics, practitioners, and policy experts. With this expert network, BRIDGE aims to create bold, context-driven solutions that connect communities, governments, and institutions across South and Southeast Asia.

Why BRIDGE?

Provide thought leadership grounded in decolonial worldviews, elevating local voices, knowledge, and Practices

Take a systems approach to design complex transboundary solutions to tackle wicked problems

Advance a rights- and justice-centered prosperity paradigm

Translate evidence and foresight into policy and action

The waves that divide us can become bridges when we sail together.

Our Focus Areas

BRIDGE work across three interdependent domains that are central to the Bay of Bengal’s long-term stability and prosperity:

Democracy & Governance

We believe that resilient democracies are essential for just and effective development. BRIDGE programs seeks to support transparent, accountable, and participatory (TAP) governance by strengthening civic institutions, advancing policy reform, and amplifying voices from the grassroots. We aim to foster cross-border and cross-sector dialogues that promote participatory and inclusive decision-making, protect civic space, and build public trust across fragile political environments.

Climate Resilience & Environmental Justice

The Bay of Bengal is one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions. BRIDGE seeks to integrate scientific research, traditional knowledge, and policy innovation to address rising seas, extreme weather, and ecosystem loss. Our work focuses on nature-based solutions, climate adaptation, migration, loss and damage, just transition, and the rights of climate-affected communities to ensure that climate and environmental actions are equitable and grounded in justice.

Sustainable Economic Futures

Home to a $7 trillion+ economy and 1.7 billion people, the region’s economic potential remains under-realized due to fragmentation, a misguided notion of development leading to inequality, and ecological risks. BRIDGE seeks to promote green, climate-resilient, inclusive, and cooperative economic strategies, from regional energy grids to blue economy innovations. We focus on how trade, investment, and innovation can drive sustainable prosperity while safeguarding people and planet.