The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is geopolitically unique due to its strategic location, potential economic growth, predicted to rise 4.7 percent in 2024 as DBS estimates--and diverse political systems of its member countries.
Unlike the European Union (EU), ASEAN is an intergovernmental organization—an organization multiple countries create to work together to address issues of common interest. The EU is a supranational organization with authority over states and binding decisions affecting its member states.
Here are three unique sides of ASEAN from a geopolitical point of view
ASEAN prioritizes neutrality
ASEAN might prefer to choose China over the U.S. if they had to take sides, as the latest survey from the States of Southeast Asia 2024 ISEAS-Yushof Ishak Institute compiled. However, ASEAN prioritizes neutrality and aims to cooperate with all countries, including China and the U.S.
ASEAN's neutrality is reflected in its 1971 declaration, The Zone of Peace, Freedom, and Neutrality (ZOPFAN), signed by the organization's foreign ministers.
Diverse political systems and non-interference policy
ASEAN member countries are not always on the same page on specific issues, raising concerns over the bloc's effectiveness in handling conflict.
For example, the Myanmar coup—was triggered by the military's suspicion of vote rigging in the November 20, 2020, election. Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines have called for a dialogue to resolve the issue. At the same time, Thailand argued that the coup was internal.
Despite its consensus-based approach and diverse political interests in its member countries, ASEAN's uniqueness can boost its role in promoting peace and stability in the region.
Dialogue as a tool for security
ASEAN does not establish a defense organization like NATO. Instead, it establishes dialogue platforms such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) to discuss and address security issues collaboratively.
ARF can help facilitate dialogues with major powers such as the U.S., Russia, and China to create regional stability.
