Publication

Despite the historical restraints put on the ASEAN, it has always featured prominently in Asia's economic and security architectures. This study examines how the organization is now preparing to take the next step -- i.e., to ensure its EU-like "centrality" in intra-regional and external policy decisions. If it hopes to do this, however, it needs to take a two-speed approach. First, individual ASEAN members need to pursue and engage in productive external partnerships. Then the Association needs to follow up with vigorous policies that share individual gains across the region.