FS
FSDS
FSDS Research Center
Dhaka, Bangladesh
2009
Established

Advancing Strategic Knowledge for Bangladesh

The Foundation for Strategic & Development Studies (FSDS) is Bangladesh's premier independent think tank, established in 2009. We conduct rigorous, evidence-based research on critical issues facing Bangladesh and the broader South Asian region.

Our work spans national security, foreign policy, climate change, economic development, and democratic governance. Through our publications, events, and policy dialogues, we bridge the gap between academic research and practical policy-making.

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Partner Institutions

Mission & Vision

Our Mission

To conduct rigorous, independent research and analysis that informs policy-making, strengthens governance, and contributes to the sustainable development and security of Bangladesh and South Asia.

Our Vision

A Bangladesh that is peaceful, prosperous, and globally engaged — guided by evidence-based policy and anchored in democratic values, rule of law, and sustainable development.

Our Core Values

Independence

We maintain strict independence from government, political parties, and corporate interests.

Rigour

Our research adheres to the highest standards of academic and analytical methodology.

Relevance

We focus on issues that matter most to Bangladesh and the South Asian region.

Integrity

We operate with transparency, accountability, and ethical responsibility.

History & Milestones

2009
Foundation Established

FSDS was founded by a group of distinguished scholars, former diplomats, and policy practitioners committed to evidence-based research on Bangladesh's strategic and development challenges.

2011
First Annual Dialogue

Launched the FSDS Annual Dialogue, now Bangladesh's premier strategic policy forum, bringing together over 200 policymakers, academics, and practitioners each year.

2014
Journal Launch

Established the FSDS Journal of Strategic & Development Studies, a peer-reviewed academic publication covering Bangladesh's security, governance, and development landscape.

2017
Regional Expansion

Expanded research scope to cover broader South Asian regional dynamics, establishing partnerships with think tanks in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and international institutions.

2021
Climate Research Centre

Established a dedicated Climate & Environmental Security research centre to address Bangladesh's growing climate vulnerability and position FSDS as a leader in climate-security nexus research.

2024
15 Years of Impact

Celebrated 15 years of independent research excellence with over 200 publications, 50 research fellows, and partnerships with 30+ national and international institutions shaping Bangladesh's policy discourse.

Board of Trustees

TH
Ambassador Md. Touhid Hossain
Chairman
Former Foreign Secretary, Government of Bangladesh
IA
Prof. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed
Trustee
Professor of International Relations, University of Dhaka
FA
Ms. Farida Akhter
Trustee
Former Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
DB
Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya
Trustee
Distinguished Fellow, Centre for Policy Dialogue

Executive Leadership

MH
Dr. Mohammad Hasan
Executive Director
PhD in Strategic Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University
FA
Dr. Farhan Ahmed
Research Director
PhD in International Relations, University of Dhaka
RA
Ms. Rumana Akter
Programme Director
MSS in Development Studies, Dhaka University

Research Team

SB
Dr. Sultana Begum
Senior Researcher
Climate & Environmental Security
RK
Prof. Rashida Khanam
Senior Researcher
Economic Development & Trade
AI
Dr. Aminul Islam
Senior Researcher
Governance & Democracy
TH
Tanvir Hassan
Researcher
Cyber Security & Digital Policy
NI
Dr. Nadia Islam
Researcher
Geopolitics & Foreign Policy
SR
Sadia Rahman
Researcher
National Security & Defense