An important new examination of the Indian Ocean, revealing how the region has become a contested geopolitical flashpoint. Throughout history, the Indian Ocean has been an essential space for trade, commerce, and culture. Every European power has sought to dominate it. After a period of calm post-war, controlling the main naval routes has once again become a critical area for ambitious states looking to become global powers.

Darshana M. Baruah shows how governments from Washington, Nairobi, and Canberra are expanding their interests in the region. The Indian Ocean is rich in natural resources, strategically located, and home to over two billion people. Island nations are becoming more important than ever, with Madagascar developing ties with Russia and the Comoros with Saudi Arabia. Also, through the region, China is connected to Africa and the Middle East. This is a compelling narrative of the geopolitical significance of the Indian Ocean—showing how the region has found itself at the heart of a new global rivalry.

Pages: 240, Year of Publication: 1119, Dimensions: 15.2x15.2cm