Thinking Aloud: Volume XII, Issue 12: May 1, 2026
The latest issue of Thinking Aloud delves into some of the most pressing development challenges facing South Asia and beyond, drawing on the wide-ranging discussions and debates that unfolded at the 9th SANEM Annual Economists’ Conference (9SAEC) 2026. Here’s what to expect:
“The Bay of Bengal Bargain: Rethinking Trade and Economic Security” by Selim Raihan
The article examines the growing vulnerabilities facing the BIMSTEC region as global trade disruptions, energy shocks, and climate pressures converge into a sustained development trap rather than a temporary crisis. It contends that regional cooperation is no longer a diplomatic luxury but a survival strategy, calling for practical mechanisms including a Regional Economic Security Compact, a regional clean energy supply chain, and a Trade Defence and Negotiation Platform. It concludes that waiting for unanimity is counterproductive, and that a coalition of willing members should move forward, warning that countries facing global disorder alone risk being left behind.
Rest of this issue: Synopsis of 9th SAEC 2026
The 9th SANEM Annual Economists’ Conference (9SAEC) 2026 was held on 17-19 April 2026 at the BRAC Centre Inn, Dhaka, bringing together leading economists, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders from South Asia and beyond. The conference, organized by the South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM), focused on “Development Challenges and Policy Responses in a Changing World.” The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Shantayanan Devarajan, Professor of the Practice and Chair of the International Development Concentration at Georgetown University, USA, on “The Costs of Denial: How Economic Growth Undermines Governance Reform.” The three-day conference featured 4 plenary sessions, 3 panel sessions, a roundtable discussion, and 22 breakout sessions, covering diverse topics such as macroeconomic issues, trade and regional integration, labor market issues, gender economics, agriculture and food security, energy security and green growth, impacts of climate change, governance and political economy, migration and remittance, health economics, social protection, and inclusive and sustainable development. The event was conducted in a hybrid format, allowing participation from experts across the globe.
Thinking Aloud continues to facilitate discussions around national and regional pertinent economic issues, and we hope this compelling edition inspires thought, dialogue, and action. Don’t miss this edition!
