Although ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations, it is set to have interaction in solving global problems. ASEAN chooses to do that not using a military approach but soft diplomacy that features multilateral engagement, economic cooperation and dialogue. This is how ASEAN has proven to play a big role in solving each regional and global problems.
Disputes within the South China Sea
For a protracted time, territorial disputes have been ongoing within the South China Sea, with several countries involved, including: Philippines, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. While the issues look like regional in nature, their consequences could possibly be significant for the remaining of the world. Therefore, ASEAN plays a crucial role in mediation and dialogue.
One of an important examples of that is the successful signing in 2002 by ASEAN and China of the DOC document, i.e. the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties within the South China Sea. This agreement emphasized a peaceful solution and the avoidance of any aggressive motion. Although the agreement was non-binding because ASEAN cannot implement it, it was a crucial step in resolving a protracted and ongoing conflict.
Crisis in Burma
As everyone knows, Burma is currently in a state of war between the pro-democracy resistance movement and the military junta. Following the 2021 coup, ASEAN members were quite divided on reply to this tragic situation. However, that very same yr, ASEAN reached a five-point consensus that called for an end to violence, humanitarian assistance and peaceful dialogue.
Although the impact of consensus and other actions could be very limited as Myanmar stays in turmoil, it was vital to place some pressure on the military junta. Moreover, it was also vital to make sure that humanitarian aid could reach the country to forestall further decline and instability that might spread to neighboring countries.
ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF)
In 1994, a multilateral dialogue was established with the participation of 27 countries, including major world powers reminiscent of the US, China, Japan, Russia, India and the European Union. ARF focuses on security issues within the Asia-Pacific region. ASEAN hopes that this forum will provide a secure space for dialogue on all security issues to advertise understanding and forestall major conflicts.
The ARF doesn’t and can’t directly resolve any conflict, but its role in facilitating peaceful and peaceful discussions is crucial in creating and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere within the Asia-Pacific region. He even played a big role during a period of high tensions between the United States and North Korea, stopping any military motion and providing mediation.
Cambodia-Vietnam War
Source: Cambodia.
From 1975 to 1979, Cambodia was ruled by the bloodthirsty dictator Pol Pot and his Khmer Rouge regime. Vietnam invaded Cambodia in 1978 after a series of attacks by Pol Pot and his regime led to the autumn of the Khmer Rouge. Then the country fell into wreck in various respects reminiscent of economically, mentally and politically. ASEAN played its role in helping Cambodia get well after which transition to a more stable power.
ASEAN’s role was crucial because it was in a position to conduct peaceful dialogue and assist various factions within the country, including the Vietnamese power vying for reconciliation. This was the culmination of this incredible effort Paris Peace Accords of 1991 which marked the official end of the Cambodian-Vietnamese War and restored Cambodia’s sovereignty.
