The Association of Southeast Asian States (ASEAN) went from some of the poorest nations in the world in 1967, to one of the largest economic blocs in the world. The combined 10 member states boast a large GDP of almost $4 trillion. Analysts foresee the block growing to $5.5 trillion in the next 4 years. Needless to say, ASEAN has become a large influence in terms of their economy.
Now, security is one of the prime issues facing the bloc. With U.S. and China relations steadily declining, and China becoming increasingly more violent in the South China Sea, the bloc is hoping to find quick solutions.
Recently, the Chinese Coast Guard was caught using water cannons to stop a Philippine supply boat. Chinese ships have been running into Filipino fishing boats as well. ASEAN is afraid that Chinese aggression is going to cause unnecessary issues between its bloc and the United States. Staying out of the conflict can be difficult when member states operate in the South China Sea on a daily basis.
Internally, the bloc is dealing with civil issues in Myanmar. Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has been struggling to form a government. The United States and the EU have both strongly condemned the military coup and the EU said it would not deal with ASEAN if Myanmar has any leadership role. This coup is hurting the image of ASEAN. Still, without a plan to host elections for the country, ASEAN is deeply considering the 5-point peace plan introduced in 2021.
ASEAN is feeling global pressure. The bloc boasts a large economic holding in the world and has growing security concerns and internal issues. The summit is the place where these issues need to be resolved. The bloc must implement the 5-point peace plan and host elections. The bloc must continue to work with the United States and Europe to create new security alliances and affirm their stance against Chinese aggression. Furthermore, the bloc must continue to flex its economic power and broker more trade deals, and affirm existing ones.
The bloc will likely never fall, but in a time of crisis, the bloc needs to show its strength, resilience, and influence that it has.
Author: Joshua Cheatham
