TIU Global Dialogue #6: ASEAN and its Challenges

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has become one of the most important international organizations in the world. The Association is not only critical in advancing peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia, but also in helping stabilize the wider Indo-Pacific Region. ASEAN regularly convenes many of the world’s most powerful states to promote cooperation on many pressing economic and security issues. But while its ten members continue to insist on ASEAN Centrality, doubts have emerged. ASEAN’s perceived inability to unite on the South China Sea issue, and alleged failure to protect human rights, are some of the many issues raised by critics. Will ASEAN continue to be relevant in the evolving regional order? Should it reform the so-called “ASEAN Way?” to better cope with 21st century realities? This session will discuss ASEAN and its challenges.