In an increasingly interconnected world, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) finds itself navigating an over-securitized landscape that poses substantial challenges to its economic integrity. Amidst growing geopolitical tensions, major powers are weaponizing economic interdependence, deploying economic statecraft to achieve security objectives. This approach fundamentally alters the context in which ASEAN operates, significantly impacting its economic resilience and regional stability.
Understanding the Over-securitisation Landscape
The term "over-securitisation" refers to a situation where economic relations become heavily embedded in security frameworks, leading nations to prioritize strategic interests over cooperative economic engagements. For ASEAN, the implications are profound. Emerging as a potential battleground for competing economic influences, the region faces threats from unilateral actions taken by major powers. Economic statecraft, the strategic use of economic policy to achieve broader foreign policy goals, is increasingly becoming the norm. In this context, ASEAN must tread carefully to avoid becoming a pawn in a geopolitical chess game.
This environment is characterized by an increasing intertwining of trade policies with security concerns. Disputes over territorial waters and trade routes, such as in the South China Sea, heighten fears of economic sanctions, trade restrictions, or even military conflicts. The result is a regional dynamic that could escalate into economic instability if not carefully managed.
Challenges in Balancing Economic and Security Concerns
The increasing political pressure and militarization of economic relations compel ASEAN member states to rethink their strategies. While security concerns are understandable, they must not overshadow economic collaboration. As such, ASEAN’s unique position—to act as a mediator without aligning too closely with any single power—becomes essential yet challenging.
Moreover, the diversity within ASEAN presents both strengths and vulnerabilities. On one hand, the region’s varied economic capabilities allow it to absorb external shocks. On the other, divergent priorities and consensus-driven policymaking often lead to watered-down agreements that lack the force needed to navigate complex geopolitical realities.
Advantages of ASEAN’s Position
ASEAN benefits from its long-standing commitment to non-alignment and its role as a facilitator of multilateral discussions. This allows the region to present an alternative to larger economies seeking to dominate supply chains and trade norms. ASEAN’s frameworks foster collaboration among member states and with external partners without necessitating an alignment with any particular power.
However, to leverage these advantages, ASEAN must foster unity among its larger economies—Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines—to share perspectives and formulate a concerted regional strategy. By working together, ASEAN can build a more resilient economic and security landscape.
The Risks of External Co-optation
The lack of a shared strategic vision poses the risk of ASEAN being co-opted into the security agendas of external actors. Individual countries, in their attempts to secure bilateral arrangements or trade deals, might negotiate terms that exacerbate regional divisions. Such agreements can undermine ASEAN’s collective credibility and weaken its centrality in global economic discussions.
Furthermore, as major powers resort to economic coercion—restricting access to critical technologies or economic resources—ASEAN countries may inadvertently become collateral damage in these geopolitical frictions. Thus, it is of vital importance for ASEAN to establish cohesive frameworks that prioritize collective security and economic stability.
Pathways Towards Strategic Coordination
To navigate this complex landscape, ASEAN must prioritize strategic coordination amongst member states. The ASEAN Coordinating Council and the ASEAN Geoeconomics Task Force (AGTF) provide platforms for discussing cross-pillar issues that merge economic, security, and geopolitical considerations. However, effective implementation of these frameworks is crucial to avoid siloed decision-making.
ASEAN must strengthen collaboration in critical sectors vulnerable to geopolitical tensions. This includes enhancing regional connectivity, assessing risks in supply chains, and securing essential commodities and technologies. By doing so, ASEAN can develop a unified perspective on economic security that does not rely solely on external influences.
Crafting a Unified Narrative
Establishing a coherent narrative around ASEAN’s stance on geopolitical issues is paramount. This narrative should emphasize openness, inclusivity, and adherence to a rules-based multilateral system. By presenting itself as a cooperative entity, ASEAN can increase its capacity for dialogue while asserting its agency in the face of coercive economic influences.
Furthermore, mainstreaming geoeconomic considerations across its agenda will streamline ASEAN’s responses to evolving challenges. Regular discussions integrating economic and security dimensions will allow the region to formulate holistic strategies, positioning ASEAN as a proactive player in international economic policies.
Leadership and the Way Forward
Effective leadership is indispensable for navigating this over-securitized environment. ASEAN’s comparative advantage lies in its convening power—its ability to foster discussions and collaborations that transcend individual member state interests. This will determine whether ASEAN retains its status as a rule-maker rather than a mere rule-taker.
In summary, ASEAN faces a formidable task in balancing economic security with geopolitical realities. While the risks of over-securitisation loom, ASEAN has the opportunity to solidify its role as a collaborative regional partner, navigating complexities with strategic foresight. The joint ASEAN Foreign and Economic Ministers’ meeting ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit represents a crucial juncture for outlining actionable steps to secure the region’s economic future on its own terms. By resisting the pressures of external powers and fostering internal collaboration, ASEAN can build a resilient and sustainable path forward in an uncertain global landscape.
In conclusion, while the road ahead holds numerous challenges, ASEAN’s strengths lie in its unity, collective resilience, and commitment to a rules-based multilateral framework. With the right strategies, ASEAN can not only navigate the current geopolitical landscape but emerge as a pivotal player in shaping a more stable economic future.
