Managing emerging port security challenges in developing green and digital shipping corridors: A port governance cooperation perspective under the Belt and Road Initiative

Abstract

The development of Green and Digital Shipping Corridors (GDSCs) represents a significant advancement in promoting sustainable and efficient maritime transport. However, as these corridors evolve, they also introduce emerging and complex security challenges for ports. The integration of advanced digital and intelligent technologies, alongside the adoption of alternative fuels and renewable energy systems, increases vulnerabilities in port operations. While foundational international and regional frameworks have laid an initial groundwork for port security, critical gaps remain. Using a combination of legal and policy analysis approach, this study critically examines these institutional shortcomings in addressing emerging security risks at ports associated with GDSC development, including insufficient integration of emerging security risks into regulatory frameworks, inadequate governmental participation in international regulation, deficiencies in private sector safety governance, unclear accountability, and limited technical standard coordination and security training. This study highlights the need for strengthened port security cooperative governance to address these emerging challenges within the context of GDSC development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).