On 17 September 2026, the UN Security Council held an Arria-formula meeting on freedom of navigation and maritime security. Chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the debate explored how the UN can better address maritime security challenges and ensure safe sea lanes.

AIA Fellow Prof. Dr. Christian Bueger was invited to brief the Council. In his briefing, he drew on his extensive experience in maritime security and recent research conducted as part of his residential fellowship on the governance of strategic waterways and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Prof. Bueger stressed the importance of looking beyond the current crisis and working towards a more long-term strategy and dialogue on responsible behaviour at sea. Such an approach must recognise that grey-zone threats and activities have become more widespread. Sustained engagement by the Security Council on maritime security is required.