What's Happening?
The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace highlights the need for ASEAN to enhance its conflict resolution mechanisms to maintain regional stability in Southeast Asia. ASEAN, a key economic bloc and trade hub, has traditionally relied on the 'ASEAN Way'—a diplomatic approach emphasizing consultation and consensus. However, this method faces challenges due to modern geopolitical shifts and domestic power struggles. The South China Sea disputes, internal conflicts like Myanmar's military coup, and unresolved border tensions are testing ASEAN's ability to manage conflicts effectively. The organization’s non-interference policy and consensus-driven decision-making are seen as obstacles to decisive action, necessitating a review of its conflict management framework.
AD
Why It's Important?
Strengthening ASEAN's conflict resolution capabilities is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia, a region vital to global trade and economic growth. The inability to manage conflicts effectively could lead to increased regional tensions, affecting trade corridors and economic stability. ASEAN's credibility as a leading security organization in the Indo-Pacific is at stake, with potential impacts on international recognition and strategic partnerships. Enhancing conflict resolution mechanisms could prevent criminal activities, protect trade routes, and attract international investment, thereby supporting regional prosperity.
What's Next?
ASEAN is encouraged to adopt proactive measures to address emerging threats by reforming its conflict resolution systems. This includes expanding the mediation authority of the High Council under the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, improving institutional capabilities, and developing strategic partnerships with external entities. By transforming its conventional methods, ASEAN aims to effectively address new security challenges while maintaining its role as a force for peace and prosperity in the region.
Beyond the Headlines
The geopolitical dynamics in Southeast Asia are influenced by external factors such as the U.S.-China competition, which complicates regional unity and strategic choices for ASEAN member states. The economic and military power of external actors creates an unbalanced power relationship, challenging ASEAN's ability to defend sovereign rights. The region's economic stability is intertwined with geopolitical interests, highlighting the need for ASEAN to balance economic growth with security responses.
