ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is geopolitically unique resulting from its strategic location and potential economic growth, which is projected to grow by 4.7 percent in 2024. DBS estimates– and diverse political systems of member states.
Unlike the European Union (EU), ASEAN is an intergovernmental organization – a corporation arrange by many countries to cooperate on problems with common interest. The EU is a supranational organization with authority over countries and binding decisions on its member states.
Here are three unique sides of ASEAN from a geopolitical perspective
ASEAN focuses on neutrality
ASEAN might prefer to decide on China over the US if it had to decide on sides, in line with the most recent study conducted by the States of Southeast Asia 2024 ISEAS-Yushof Ishak Institute. However, ASEAN prioritizes neutrality and seeks cooperation with all countries, including China and the US
ASEAN’s neutrality is reflected in its 1971 declaration “Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality” (ZOPFAN), signed by the organization’s foreign ministers.
Diverse political systems and non-interference policies
ASEAN member countries aren’t all the time on the identical side on specific issues, raising concerns in regards to the bloc’s effectiveness in resolving conflicts.
For example, the coup in Myanmar was triggered by the military’s suspicion of rigging the November 20, 2020 elections. Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines called for dialogue to resolve the problem. At the identical time, Thailand argued that the coup was domestic in nature.
Despite its consensus-based approach and diverse political interests amongst member countries, ASEAN’s uniqueness may enhance its role in promoting peace and stability within the region.
Dialogue as a security tool
ASEAN isn’t making a defense organization like NATO. Instead, it establishes dialogue platforms equivalent to the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) to collectively discuss and address security issues.
The ARF might help facilitate dialogue with major powers equivalent to the US, Russia and China to create regional stability.
