Does ASEAN matter? Reconciling realist and constructivist approaches to regional security in Southeast Asia

Does ASEAN matter? Reconciling realist and constructivist approaches to regional security in Southeast Asia
Author: Peter Goldschagg
Publisher: GRIN Verlag
Total Pages: 40
Release: 2007-05-13
Genre: Political Science
ISBN: 3638728919

Essay from the year 2007 in the subject Politics - Region: South Asia, grade: A (sehr gut/excellent), Victoria University of Wellington, course: Regional integration in Southeast Asia, language: English, abstract: Focusing on ASEAN’s relevance as a regional security organisation, this study aims to expound the prevailing driving forces, interests and obstacles to an effective crisis management. Drawing on the theoretical background of neo-realist and constructivist approaches, the paper argues that neither the neo-realist nor the constructivist approach is able to fully conceptualise ASEAN’s role in regional security. While only an eclectic, multi-dimensional approach grasps the variety of its multiple facets, the latter seems to be highly contingent on the interplay of external structural and internal sociological dynamics. While the organisation appears in this out sketched context as a relatively important player in times of political and economic stability, having its merits in conflict-preventive measures through the building of trust and the construction of a common identity, the regime shows strong enervations in times of crisis.

Securing Southeast Asia

Securing Southeast Asia
Author: Mark Beeson
Publisher: Routledge
Total Pages: 230
Release: 2012-10-12
Genre: Political Science
ISBN: 1134117566

This book uniquely applies the security reform agenda to Southeast Asia. It investigates recent developments in civil-military relations in the region, looking in particular at the impact and utility of the agenda on the region and assessing whether it is likely to help make the region more stable and less prone to military interventions. It provides an historical overview of the region’s civil-military relations and goes on to explore the dynamics of civil-military relations within the context of the security sector reform framework, focusing on the experiences of four of the region’s militaries: Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia. It argues that although regional militaries have not necessarily followed a ‘Western’ model, significant developments have occurred that are broadly in keeping with the security sector reform agenda, and which suggests that the prospects for stable civil-military relations are brighter than some sceptics believe.

Indonesia's Transformation and the Stability of Southeast Asia

Indonesia's Transformation and the Stability of Southeast Asia
Author: Angel Rabasa
Publisher: Rand Corporation
Total Pages: 137
Release: 2001-07-05
Genre: Political Science
ISBN: 0833032402

Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country, is undergoing a profound transformation that could lead to a variety of outcomes, from the consolidation of democracy to return to authoritarianism or military rule, to radical Islamic rule, or to violent disintegration. The stakes are high, for Indonesia is the key to Southeast Asian security. The authors examine the trends and dynamics that are driving Indonesia's transformation, outline possible strategic futures and their implications for regional stability, and identify options the United States might pursue in the critical challenge of influencing Indonesia's future course. Steps the United States might take now include support for Indonesia's stability and territorial integrity, reestablishment of Indonesian-U.S. military cooperation and interaction, aid in rebuilding a constructive Indonesian role in regional security, and support for development of a regional crisis reaction force. A continued strong U.S. presence in the Asia-Pacific region will reinforce the U.S. role as regional balancer.

ASEAN and the Security of South-East Asia (Routledge Revivals)

ASEAN and the Security of South-East Asia (Routledge Revivals)
Author: Michael Leifer
Publisher: Routledge
Total Pages: 179
Release: 2013-10-14
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 1135051135

Problems of internal and external security in South-East Asia have persisted as one set of competing global alignments has been succeeded by another, with major impact on regional relationships. This book, first published in 1989, examines how the states of The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) have attempted to confront the problems of regional security. It considers the nature and role of the Association - intended to promote economic growth, social progress and cultural development - traces its institutional development from 1967 and identifies a basic structural weakness arising from the differing strategic perspectives held by member governments. Leifer explores in particular ASEAN’s response to conflicts over Kampuchea, renamed Cambodia in 1990, which was critical in exposing those differing perspectives and the limited role of a diplomatic community in coping with regional security problems. This comprehensive work will be of particular value to students and academics with an interest in South-East Asian diplomacy, history and regional security.

Political and Security Dynamics of South and Southeast Asia

Political and Security Dynamics of South and Southeast Asia
Author: Daljit Singh
Publisher: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies
Total Pages: 138
Release: 2007
Genre: Political Science
ISBN: 9812304762

Provides perspectives from India and Singapore on some of the major security and political issues facing the two regions. Looks at regional integrations trends, roles of the major powers, maritime security in the Indian Ocean region, and political and security developments within Southeast Asia.