Thailand's ASEAN Chairmanship at its Mid-Term: Three Key Issues to Watch After the 34th ASEAN Summit ; Policy Report

In: http://hdl.handle.net/11540/11211

Abstract

This paper reports on the Thai ASEAN Chairmanship at its mid-term, by evaluating the domestic background as well as three key issues that emerged after the 34th ASEAN Summit, and assesses them against Thailand's declared ambitions. The three selected issues, one under each of the three ASEAN Community pillars, are critical for the further evolution of ASEAN and the well-being if its people: (i) ASEAN's Outlook on the Indo-Pacific in the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC); (ii) the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC); and (iii) the Bangkok Declaration on Combating Marine Debris in the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC). Despite manifold challenges, the association's progress under Thai leadership has been laudable. However, immediate deliverables should not detract from the need for sustainable long-term progress and, thus, this report aims to provide some inputs for the consideration of the incumbent and future chairs.