| ID | 061420 |
| Title Proper | Relevance of the ASEAN regional forum (ARF) for regional security in the Asia-Pacific |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Heller, Dominik |
| Publication | Apr 2005. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | This article discusses the structure and the functioning of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and then proceeds to analyse ARF’s achievements, expectations, as well as increasing perceptions of its irrelevance as a security institution. It suggests that any analysis of the relevance of the ARF first has to examine whether the interests of its central members are opposed to the ARF’s agenda and raison d’être. The three most powerful national actors (the United States, China, and Japan) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) all have an interest in supporting the ARF. It argues that the ARF is a forum that reflects the convergence of strategic interests of both the regional and external actors. Nevertheless, it concludes with the observation that the effects of the ARF are surely not sufficient to fully secure peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific, but it is arguable whether any form of institution could satisfy this goal. |
| `In' analytical Note | Contemporary Southeast Asia Vol. 27, No.1; Apr 2005: p 123-145 |
| Journal Source | Contemporary Southeast Asia Vol: 27 No 1 |
| Key Words | ARF ; ASEAN Regional Forum ; ASEAN ; Regional Security-Asia-Pacific |