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Flag of    Association of Southeast Asian Nations   Burmese:အရှေ့တောင်အာရှနိုင်ငံများအသင်းaashaetaungaarsh ninenganmyarr aahpwalFilipino:Samahán ng mga Bansâ sa Timog Silangang AsyaIndonesian:Perhimpunan Bangsa-Bangsa Asia TenggaraKhmer:សមាគមប្រជាជាតិអាស៊ីអាគ្នេយ៍Samāgam Prajājāti ʿʹāsʹī ʿʹāgney ̊Lao:ສະມາຄົມປະຊາຊາດແຫ່ງອາຊີຕະເວັນອອກສຽງໃຕ້Samakhom pasasat haeng asi tawen-ok siang taiMalay:Persatuan Negara-negara Asia TenggaraMandarin:亞細安組織東南亞國家聯盟東南亞國家協會Yàxì'ān zǔzhīDōngnányà guójiā liánméngDōngnányà guójiā xiéhuìTamil:தென்கிழக்காசிய நாடுகளின் கூட்டமைப்புTeṉkiḻakkāciya nāṭukaḷiṉ kūṭṭamaippuThai:สมาคมประชาชาติแห่งเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้Samakhom prachachat haeng echia tawan ok chiang taiVietnamese:Hiệp hội các quốc gia Đông Nam Á
Flag
Emblem of    Association of Southeast Asian Nations   Burmese:အရှေ့တောင်အာရှနိုင်ငံများအသင်းaashaetaungaarsh ninenganmyarr aahpwalFilipino:Samahán ng mga Bansâ sa Timog Silangang AsyaIndonesian:Perhimpunan Bangsa-Bangsa Asia TenggaraKhmer:សមាគមប្រជាជាតិអាស៊ីអាគ្នេយ៍Samāgam Prajājāti ʿʹāsʹī ʿʹāgney ̊Lao:ສະມາຄົມປະຊາຊາດແຫ່ງອາຊີຕະເວັນອອກສຽງໃຕ້Samakhom pasasat haeng asi tawen-ok siang taiMalay:Persatuan Negara-negara Asia TenggaraMandarin:亞細安組織東南亞國家聯盟東南亞國家協會Yàxì'ān zǔzhīDōngnányà guójiā liánméngDōngnányà guójiā xiéhuìTamil:தென்கிழக்காசிய நாடுகளின் கூட்டமைப்புTeṉkiḻakkāciya nāṭukaḷiṉ kūṭṭamaippuThai:สมาคมประชาชาติแห่งเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้Samakhom prachachat haeng echia tawan ok chiang taiVietnamese:Hiệp hội các quốc gia Đông Nam Á
Emblem
Motto: "One Vision, One Identity, One Community"
Anthem: "The ASEAN Way"
Member states shown in dark green
Member states shown in dark green
Headquarters Jakarta, Indonesia
6°14′20″S 106°47′57″E / 6.23889°S 106.79917°E / -6.23889; 106.79917
Largest city Jakarta, Indonesia
Working language English
Official languages
of contracting states
Type Regional organization
Membership
Leaders
• Secretary-General
Kao Kim Hourn
• Chairmanship of ASEAN
 Malaysia
Legislature The ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly
Establishment
• Bangkok Declaration
8 August 1967 (57 years ago) (8 August 1967)
• Charter
16 December 2008 (16 years ago) (16 December 2008)
Area
• Total
4,522,518 km2 (1,746,154 sq mi)
Population
• 2023 estimate
683,290,000
• Density
144/km2 (373.0/sq mi)
GDP (PPP) 2025 estimate
• Total
Increase $13.022 trillion
GDP (nominal) 2025 estimate
• Total
Increase $4.249 trillion
• Per capita
Increase $6,209
HDI (2023) Increase 0.745
high
Time zone UTC+06:30 to +09:00
Preceded by
Association of Southeast Asia

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, often called ASEAN, is a group of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. This group works to make its members stronger together. They focus on helping each other with their economies and keeping the region safe.

ASEAN's member countries have over 600 million people. Their total land area is more than 4.5 million square kilometers. In 2022, their combined economy was worth about $10.2 trillion. This makes up about 6.5% of the world's total economy. Many ASEAN countries have fast-growing economies. The group is very important for cooperation in East Asia.

The main goals of ASEAN are to speed up economic growth and improve social and cultural development in the region. They also want to promote peace and stability. They do this by respecting justice and the rule of law. They follow the rules of the Charter of the United Nations. Recently, ASEAN has also started working on other goals beyond just money and society.

ASEAN works with many other groups around the world. It is a big partner of the United Nations. It also works with groups like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. ASEAN has offices in many countries. It is seen as a key place for countries in the region to work together. Its success has helped create large trade groups. These include Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

History of ASEAN

How ASEAN Started

Southeast Asian nations are close geographically. They are also a mix of cultures from East Asia and South Asia. This region is important for trade routes. These routes include the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. Because of this, the region was influenced by many cultures.

Long ago, around 100 BCE, Southeast Asia was a center for trade. This helped their economies grow and new ideas spread. Many European countries later took control of most of these nations. Only Thailand (then called Siam) was not a colony. European rule brought new religions and technologies. It also introduced the Latin alphabet.

Later, during World War II, Japan tried to unite Asia against Western control. But Japan's alliance with other powerful countries changed things. After the war, many Southeast Asian countries became independent. These are the ASEAN states we see today.

Founding the Group

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Signing of the ASEAN Declaration by five Foreign Ministers in Bangkok on 8 August 1967

Before ASEAN, there was a group called the Association of Southeast Asia (ASA). It started in 1961. It included Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaya. ASEAN itself began on August 8, 1967. Five foreign ministers signed the ASEAN Declaration in Bangkok. These countries were Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.

The Declaration stated ASEAN's goals. These included speeding up economic, social, and cultural growth. They also wanted to promote peace in the region. They aimed to work together on common interests. They also wanted to cooperate with other international groups.

ASEAN's Big Five
ASEAN's Big Five — (L to R) Philippine Foreign Secretary Narciso Ramos, Indonesian Foreign Minister Adam Malik, Thai Foreign Minister Thanat Khoman, Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak, and Singaporean Foreign Minister S. Rajaratnam.

ASEAN was first formed to help stop the spread of communism. After World War II, communist governments appeared in some Asian countries. This led to a desire for regional stability.

ASEAN held its first big meeting in Bali, Indonesia, in 1976. They agreed on some industrial projects. They also signed a Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia. When the Cold War ended, ASEAN countries gained more independence. In the 1990s, ASEAN became a strong voice for trade and security in the region.

In 1995, the Southeast Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty was signed. This made Southeast Asia a zone free of nuclear weapons. It became fully active in 2001.

Growing the Group

On January 7, 1984, Brunei became ASEAN's sixth member. On July 28, 1995, Vietnam joined as the seventh member. Laos and Myanmar joined two years later in 1997. Cambodia joined on April 30, 1999. Its entry was delayed by internal issues.

In 2006, ASEAN was given a special status at the United Nations General Assembly. This allowed them to observe UN meetings. In return, ASEAN made the UN a "dialogue partner."

The ASEAN Charter

On December 15, 2008, ASEAN members met in Jakarta. They launched a new charter. This charter was signed in November 2007. It aimed to make ASEAN more like the European Union. The charter officially made ASEAN a legal group. It aimed to create a single trade area for 500 million people.

The charter helped ASEAN become stronger. It also aimed for ASEAN to play a bigger role in Asian and global matters. The 2008 financial crisis was a challenge to these goals. A human rights group was also created in 2009. It is called the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR).

In 2012, the commission adopted the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration. However, some international groups have criticized this declaration. They say it does not fully match global human rights standards.

The leadership of ASEAN changes among its member states. Malaysia is the chair for 2025.

ASEAN Chairs
Year Country
2008  Thailand
2009
2010  Vietnam
2011  Indonesia
2012  Cambodia
2013  Brunei
2014  Myanmar
2015  Malaysia
2016  Laos
2017  Philippines
2018  Singapore
2019  Thailand
2020  Vietnam
2021  Brunei
2022  Cambodia
2023  Indonesia
2024  Laos
2025  Malaysia

Public Health Efforts

ASEAN works with other countries to handle health crises. This includes working with ASEAN+3 countries (China, Japan, South Korea).

Responding to SARS

During the SARS outbreak, ASEAN and ASEAN+3 worked together. They shared ways to fight the disease. They also improved cooperation between health groups. They made travel rules safer with health checks. China also gave money to an ASEAN SARS fund.

Handling H1N1

ASEAN held a special meeting in May 2009. This was to respond to the H1N1 pandemic. They agreed to set up hotlines for health officials. They also formed joint response teams. They decided to support ongoing research.

Challenges in Myanmar

Since 2017, events in Myanmar have created challenges for ASEAN. These events have tested the group's unity.

The 2021 Myanmar Coup

ASEAN leaders facing Myanmar Junta leader
Special ASEAN summit on the 2021 Myanmar coup

On February 1, 2021, Myanmar's military took control of the government. This was a coup d'etat. They declared a national emergency. Elected leaders were arrested. Protests and resistance began. Many countries around the world urged ASEAN to act. ASEAN has worked to address the situation.

Member States

Map of ASEAN member states
Map showing the member states of ASEAN
Maldives Bangladesh Bhutan Nepal Sri Lanka India Myanmar Thailand Cambodia Laos Vietnam Brunei Indonesia Malaysia Philippines Singapore Afghanistan Pakistan Turkmenistan Iran Azerbaijan Kazakhstan Uzbekistan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan China Russia Turkey Japan Mongolia South Korea Bahrain Kuwait Oman Qatar Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation Mekong–Ganga Cooperation Association of Southeast Asian Nations Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Organization of Turkic States Economic Cooperation Organization Gulf Cooperation Council Asia Cooperation DialogueSupranational Asian Bodies
A clickable Euler diagram showing the relationships between various Asian regional organisations vde

List of Member States

State Accession
Brunei Brunei January 7, 1984
Cambodia Cambodia April 30, 1999
Indonesia Indonesia August 8, 1967
Laos Laos July 23, 1997
Malaysia Malaysia August 8, 1967
Myanmar Myanmar July 23, 1997
Philippines Philippines August 8, 1967
Singapore Singapore August 8, 1967
Thailand Thailand August 8, 1967
Vietnam Vietnam July 28, 1995

Observer States

Two countries are currently working to join ASEAN: Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.

  • Papua New Guinea has been an observer since 1976.
  • Timor-Leste has been an observer since 2002. It is expected to be invited to join in 2025.

Demographics of ASEAN

As of July 1, 2019, ASEAN had about 655 million people. This was 8.5% of the world's population. About 8.4% of the population were children aged 0–4. About 7.1% were older than 65. The region's population grows by 1.1% each year. Thailand has the lowest growth at 0.2%. Cambodia has the highest at 1.9%. There are slightly more females than males in ASEAN.

Major Cities

Many large cities are found in ASEAN countries. Here are some of the biggest metropolitan areas:

Metropolitan area Core city Population Area
(km2)
Country Census year
Greater Jakarta Jakarta 31,673,824 7,076.3  Indonesia 2020
Greater Manila Area Manila 28,250,517 7,967.98  Philippines 2020
Ho Chi Minh City Metropolitan Area Ho Chi Minh City 21,281,639 30,595.0  Vietnam 2019
Hanoi Capital Region Hanoi 19,980,000 24,314.7  Vietnam 2019
Bangkok Metropolitan Region Bangkok 10,696,258 7,700.0  Thailand 2020
Greater Surabaya Surabaya 9,924,509 6,310.0  Indonesia 2020
Greater Bandung Bandung 8,790,308 3,500.3  Indonesia 2020
Klang Valley Kuala Lumpur 8,455,029 8,347.0  Malaysia 2020
Yangon Region Yangon 7,360,703 10,276.7  Myanmar 2014
Greater Semarang Semarang 6,009,982 4,795.9  Indonesia 2020
Singapore Singapore 5,685,807 734.3  Singapore 2020
Da Nang Metropolitan Area Da Nang 5,622,814 26,640.3  Vietnam 2019
Greater Medan Medan 4,756,863 3,189.2  Indonesia 2020
Metro Davao Davao 3,339,284 6,492.8  Philippines 2020
Metro Cebu Cebu 3,165,799 1,062.8  Philippines 2020
George Town Conurbation George Town 2,843,344 3,764.3  Malaysia 2020
Greater Makassar Makassar 2,725,951 2,666.6  Indonesia 2020
Greater Palembang Palembang 2,634,501 9,886.6  Indonesia 2020
Phnom Penh Metro Area Phnom Penh 2,506,123 679.0  Cambodia 2019
Greater Yogyakarta Yogyakarta 2,485,163 1,118.2  Indonesia 2020

The ASEAN Way

The "ASEAN Way" is how the group solves problems. It respects the cultures of Southeast Asia. It means that leaders talk things over in an informal way. They try to find solutions that everyone agrees on. They avoid public arguments to prevent more conflict.

Some people think this way of working could help solve problems globally. Others believe it only works for Asian countries. Critics say that focusing on agreement can make it hard to move forward quickly. Different members might also have different ideas about what the "ASEAN Way" means.

How ASEAN is Organized

ASEAN HQ 1
ASEAN Secretariat in Jalan Sisingamangaraja No.70A, South Jakarta, Indonesia.

In 1997, ASEAN leaders created the ASEAN Vision 2020. This vision aimed for a single ASEAN community. It included goals for peace, stability, and economic growth. It also focused on human development and protecting the environment. The vision aimed for ASEAN to play a big role globally.

This vision was made clearer in 2003 with the Bali Concord II. Three main parts of the ASEAN community were set up:

  • Political-Security Community (APSC)
  • Economic Community (AEC)
  • Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC)

The goal was to have these communities fully working by December 31, 2015. This was decided at a meeting in Cebu in 2007.

Political-Security Community (APSC)

The APSC aims to create a strong and safe environment in ASEAN. It has plans to make the region more secure. It wants members to feel responsible for overall safety. It also aims for ASEAN to be active in a connected world.

The ASEAN Defense Industry Collaboration (ADIC) was proposed in 2010. Its goal is to reduce how much defense equipment ASEAN buys from outside countries. It also wants to grow the defense industry within the region. This helps ASEAN countries rely more on their own abilities for security. ASEANAPOL also helps police forces work together to fight crime.

Economic Community (AEC)

KL Declaration Signing 11.22.15
ASEAN leaders sign the declaration of the ASEAN Economic Community during the 27th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, 2015.

The AEC aims to create a single market for all member states. This means making it easier to trade goods and services. The plan for this community was adopted in 2007. It aims for a single market and production base. It also wants a competitive economic region. The AEC seeks fair economic development for all members. It also wants the region to be fully connected to the global economy.

Areas of cooperation include developing human skills. They also recognize professional qualifications across borders. They work on better transport and communication links. The goal is to allow skilled workers, goods, services, and investments to move freely. This helps ASEAN become more competitive globally.

Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC)

The ASCC aims for a community that cares about its people. It wants to build strong unity among ASEAN countries and their people. It focuses on human development and social welfare. It also promotes social justice and environmental protection. Building an ASEAN identity and reducing differences between countries are also key goals.

To check how well the AEC is doing, they use an AEC Scorecard. This tool helps measure how much the region is integrating. It shows what needs to be done to reach the AEC goals.

Energy Cooperation

Part of the AEC's work is to connect the energy systems of ASEAN countries. The ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) guides this. The ASEAN Center for Energy manages this plan.

Financial Integration

ASEAN is also working to connect its financial systems. This helps support the AEC. A common currency might be a future step. This would make cross-border business cheaper. It would also help keep prices stable. However, countries need to have similar economic conditions first.

Food Security

Member states know how important food security is. It helps keep the region stable and wealthy. As ASEAN grows, food security is a key part of building the community. This is even more important with climate change affecting farming and fishing.

ASEAN aims to achieve food security by trading rice and corn. Making trade easier helps reduce costs. While countries specialize in different products, trade within ASEAN is still small. Integration aims to change this.

Economy of ASEAN

ASEAN Nations Flags in Jakarta 3
The flags of the ASEAN member states in Jakarta, Indonesia

The ASEAN group aims for economic integration. They created the AEC to form a single market. From 1989 to 2009, member states grew economically by 3.8% to 7% each year. This was faster than many other regions.

The ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) started in 1992. It helps goods move freely between members. Newer members have more time to meet all the rules. The next steps are to create a single market and production base. They also want a competitive economic region. They aim for fair economic development. Finally, they want to be fully connected to the global economy. Since 2007, ASEAN countries have slowly lowered import taxes for members. The goal was zero import taxes by 2016.

Many economic zones exist in ASEAN countries. In 2018, eight ASEAN members were among the world's best-performing economies. ASEAN's main office predicts the region will be the world's fourth-largest economy by 2030.

Internal Market

ASEAN planned to create a single market by the end of 2015. This market would allow free movement of goods, services, skilled workers, and money. The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) was formed in 2015. However, some parts of the plan were delayed until 2025.

Trade within ASEAN was low until 2010. Most trade was with countries outside the region. Foreign investment in ASEAN grew a lot. In 2010, it doubled to $75.8 billion.

ASEAN has agreements to make trade in services easier. They have also agreed to recognize professional qualifications. This means doctors, nurses, engineers, and others can work in any ASEAN state.

Six member states are working to connect their stock exchanges. This helps them compete with larger international exchanges.

The ASEAN Single Aviation Market (ASEAN-SAM) aims for a single aviation market. This allows ASEAN airlines to fly more freely between member states. It helps tourism, trade, and investment.

Free Trade Agreements

Map of countries with which ASEAN has free trade agreements
     ASEAN     Countries with which ASEAN has free trade agreements

In 1992, the Common Effective Preferential Tariff (CEPT) plan was adopted. This plan aimed to remove tariffs. It helps increase the region's ability to produce goods for the world market. This plan became the basis for the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA).

Singapore Port viewed from The Pinnacle@Duxton 04
The Port of Singapore is one of the world's busiest ports.

ASEAN's free trade efforts are led by the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA). This agreement helps achieve the goals of the AEC.

In 2007, ASEAN aimed to complete free trade agreements (FTAs) with China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, and New Zealand by 2013. This was in line with the start of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. In November 2007, ASEAN states signed the ASEAN Charter. This charter is like a constitution for the group.

An FTA with Australia and New Zealand was signed in 2009. This agreement was expected to boost the combined economies of the 12 countries. The agreement with China created the ASEAN–China Free Trade Area (ACFTA). It fully started on January 1, 2010. ASEAN also discussed an FTA with the European Union.

ASEAN and its six main trading partners (Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea) began talks in 2013. They discussed creating the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). This group covers 45% of the world's population. It also covers about a third of the world's total economy.

Electricity Trade

Cross-border electricity trade in ASEAN has been limited. This is despite efforts since 1997 to create an ASEAN Power Grid. Electricity trade is only about 5% of total power generation.

Tourism in ASEAN

Travel between ASEAN countries has grown a lot. This is because visa-free travel is now common. In 2010, almost half of all tourists in ASEAN were from other ASEAN countries. Cooperation in tourism officially started in 1976.

Tourism is a key growth area for ASEAN. It has stayed strong even during global economic problems. In 2015, 109 million tourists visited ASEAN. This was a big increase from 2011. In 2012, tourism made up 4.6% of ASEAN's economy. It also created many jobs.

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) was created in 1981. It is a yearly meeting to promote ASEAN countries as one tourist destination. It involves all parts of the tourism industry from the 10 member states.

Cooperation Funds

The China-ASEAN Investment Cooperation Fund started in 2010. It was announced by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao. This fund helps invest in Southeast Asia. The Export-Import Bank of China was a main supporter.

In 2011, the China-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation fund was created. China provided the money for this fund.

Foreign Relations

Asean flag flying at Royal Thai Embassy Helsinki
Royal Thai Embassy, Helsinki, flying its own national flag as well as ASEAN's flag

ASEAN has many alliances and partners around the world. It is involved in many international matters. The group tries to stay neutral in politics. It holds ASEAN Summits. At these summits, leaders from member states meet. They discuss regional issues and work with countries outside the group. The first summit was in Bali in 1976. Since 2008, the ASEAN Summit is held twice a year.

ASEAN is a big partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. They work together on security, economy, and culture. ASEAN is also closely linked with China. They cooperate in many areas like trade, education, and health. It is also very important for the foreign policy of Australia and New Zealand.

ASEAN also takes part in the East Asia Summit (EAS). This is a forum held every year by leaders from eighteen countries in East Asia. ASEAN leads this forum. The EAS discusses trade, energy, and security. It also helps build a regional community.

P20220512KR-0089-2 (52142897722)
President Joe Biden and ASEAN leaders pose for a family photo at the US-ASEAN Summit

Other meetings include the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting. These focus on specific topics like defense or the environment. The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) started in 1994. It helps with talks and builds trust in the region. It includes all ASEAN members and many other countries.

ASEAN also meets with European countries during the Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM). This meeting strengthens cooperation between Europe and Asia. ASEAN also has yearly meetings with India, Russia, and the United States.

After the 2022 visit by Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan, ASEAN and its members supported the One China policy. In November 2022, Ukraine's Foreign Minister asked ASEAN countries to condemn Russia's actions.

Territorial Disputes

South China Sea

There have been many disagreements in the South China Sea. Countries like China and Taiwan have made claims. Other countries like Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia also have claims. Many Southeast Asian countries see China's claims as a problem.

In 2016, China told ASEAN it would not build new land on the Scarborough Shoal. ASEAN and China agreed to follow rules for behavior in the South China Sea. They urged countries not to settle on currently empty islands.

Within ASEAN, Cambodia often supports China's views on the South China Sea.

Disputes Between Members

There have been disagreements between ASEAN member states. These include border disputes between Cambodia and Thailand. There are also disputes between Cambodia and Vietnam. The North Borneo dispute is between the Philippines and Malaysia.

When Vietnam invaded Cambodia in 1978, ASEAN did not accept it. They saw it as breaking rules for regional unity. ASEAN worked with the US and Australia to oppose Vietnam's action. ASEAN played a big role in the peace process. This led to the 1991 Paris Agreement.

Relations with Other Groups

ASEAN with Plus 3 and Plus 6
     ASEAN      ASEAN Plus Three      ASEAN Plus Six

ASEAN Plus Three

In 1990, Malaysia suggested creating an East Asia Economic Caucus. This group would include ASEAN, China, Japan, and South Korea. It aimed to balance the growing influence of the US. This idea did not happen due to strong opposition. However, work for more integration continued. The ASEAN Plus Three group was created in 1997. It includes ASEAN, China, Japan, and South Korea.

ASEAN Plus Three helps coordinate cooperation. Leaders, ministers, and officials from these 13 countries discuss many issues. The group became more important after the 1997 Asian financial crisis. ASEAN worked closely with China, South Korea, and Japan to respond to the crisis. They created the Chiang Mai Initiative. This helped bring financial stability to Asia.

ASEAN Plus Three also focuses on other topics. These include food and energy security. They also work on trade, disaster management, and reducing poverty. They aim to strengthen cooperation among the nations.

ASEAN Plus Six

ASEAN Plus Three was the first step towards more integration. This was followed by the even larger East Asia Summit (EAS). The EAS includes ASEAN Plus Three, plus India, Australia, and New Zealand. This group is very important for the economy and security of the Asia-Pacific region.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a free-trade agreement. It involves 15 countries from ASEAN Plus Six (not including India). RCEP allows members to protect some local industries. It also gives them more time to meet goals.

India is not currently part of RCEP to protect its own market. However, Japan, China, and ASEAN welcome India's future participation.

Environment

Borneo fires October 2006
Haze over Borneo, 2006
Asean-co2-emissions-per-capita
Greenhouse gas emissions per capita of different ASEAN countries.

Around 2000, ASEAN started discussing environmental agreements. They signed the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution in 2002. This was to control haze pollution in Southeast Asia. However, haze outbreaks still happened in later years.

As of 2015, the haze problem had not changed for half of the ASEAN members. It remained a crisis every two years.

Other environmental issues include trash dumping from other countries. Deforestation is also a problem. Indonesia lost more forest than other members combined between 2001 and 2013. Plastic waste dumping is also a big concern. Five ASEAN members were among the top 10 worst polluters in 2010. Many animal and plant species are also threatened in the region.

ASEAN's economy is growing very fast. But this growth comes with a cost. It releases about 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2 into the air each year. This is more than Japan or Germany. ASEAN is the only region where coal use is expected to increase. The International Energy Agency (IEA) says ASEAN's energy demand has grown by over 80% since 2000. Most of this growth has been met by using more fossil fuels. ASEAN has been criticized for not doing enough to fight climate change. It is one of the most vulnerable regions to climate impacts.

SolarGIS-Solar-map-South-And-South-East-Asia-en
Solar irradiance map of South and Southeast Asia, showing the high potential of solar power in ASEAN.

ASEAN has many chances for renewable energy. With solar and wind power, ASEAN could get most of its electricity from these sources. This would be at a good cost. Vietnam's experience with solar and wind power shows what is possible. The proposed ASEAN Power Grid could help transmit renewable energy. This would allow large producers like Vietnam to share power with others.

Energy Transition

Key features of energy transition in Southeast Asia
Key features of energy transition in Southeast Asia

ASEAN has started to switch to cleaner energy. This change is challenging but possible. The region's energy demand is expected to triple by 2050. To reach its goal of 23% renewable energy by 2025, Southeast Asia needs to invest a lot. However, this goal can be met with the right plans.

Vietnam is a good example of quickly adopting solar and wind energy. By 2022, solar and wind made up 13% of its electricity. This was a big jump from almost zero in 2017. The region needs international help to reach its net-zero emission goals. Phasing out coal is hard. But countries like Indonesia and Vietnam have promised to do so by the 2040s. Leaders believe the ASEAN Power Grid is key to unlocking green energy in Southeast Asia.

Education

ASEAN Delegation at EAYDP 2023 Malaysia
ASEAN Delegation at the EU-ASEAN Youth Diplomat Program 2023 in Faculty of International Relations of University Malaya

To improve education, ASEAN education ministers agreed on four main goals. These include making ASEAN citizens, especially young people, more aware of the group. They also want to strengthen ASEAN identity through education. Building human resources in education and strengthening the ASEAN University Network are also priorities.

The annual ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting oversees education cooperation. The ASEAN Senior Officials on Education (SOM-ED) manages programs. SOM-ED also handles cooperation in higher education through the ASEAN University Network (AUN). The AUN is a group of universities in Southeast Asia. It was founded in 1995. Its goals are to promote cooperation among scholars. It also aims to develop skilled people. It helps share information and build a sense of "ASEAN-ness" among members.

In 2011, ten vocational schools were set up in China. These schools help develop skilled workers for ASEAN countries.

Singapore offers a scholarship program to students from other ASEAN countries. It covers secondary school, junior college, and university education. The scholarships cover living costs, medical care, and school fees. Students who do well can apply for undergraduate scholarships in Singapore and other ASEAN countries.

The Australian Government also offers 'Australia for ASEAN' scholarships. These are for future leaders from ASEAN member states. Students can earn a Master's degree. This helps them gain skills and build connections with Australia. They also join a program to develop leadership for the Indo-Pacific region. Each ASEAN member state can receive ten of these scholarships.

Culture

ASEAN hosts cultural activities to bring the region closer. These include sports, educational events, and awards for writing. Examples are the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity and ASEAN Heritage Parks. The ASEAN Outstanding Scientist and Technologist Award also promotes excellence. The ASEAN region is known for its diverse cultures, religions, and languages.

Media

Press at ASEAN 2018 Press Conference (28897538337)
ASEAN 2018 Press Conference in Singapore, cooperative efforts within SEA media was set by ACPM standards

Member states work together on information sharing. This helps build an ASEAN identity. The ASEAN Committee on Culture and Information (COCI) is a main group for this. It was set up in 1978. Its goal is to promote cooperation in information and culture. It does this through projects and activities. Representatives from government ministries and media groups meet yearly. They plan projects to achieve their goals.

In 2014, foreign ministers launched the ASEAN Communication Master Plan (ACPM). This plan helps explain ASEAN to people in the region and worldwide.

ASEAN Media Cooperation (AMC) sets standards for digital television. This prepares broadcasters to switch from old to new TV systems. This cooperation started in 2012. It recognized that media helps connect people and bridge cultural gaps. Key projects include:

  • The ASEAN Media Portal, launched in 2007. It is a website with documentaries, games, and music videos. These show the culture and arts of ASEAN countries.
  • The ASEAN NewsMaker Project, started in 2009. It teaches students and teachers to make videos about their countries. This project helps young people learn about ASEAN. It deepens their understanding of different cultures.
  • The ASEAN Digital Broadcasting Meeting. This yearly meeting sets digital TV standards. It discusses progress in switching to digital TV by 2020.

The ASEAN Post was launched on August 8, 2017. This was to celebrate ASEAN's 50th Anniversary. It is a digital media company based in Malaysia.

National Public Media in ASEAN

  •  Brunei: Radio Television Brunei
  •  Cambodia: Bayon Television and National Television of Cambodia
  •  Indonesia: Televisi Republik Indonesia and Radio Republik Indonesia
  •  Laos: Lao National Radio and Lao National Television
  •  Malaysia: Radio Televisyen Malaysia
  •  Myanmar: Myanmar International, Myanmar National Television and Myanmar Radio and Television
  •  Philippines: People's Television Network, Radio Philippines Network, Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation and Presidential Broadcast Service
  •  Singapore: Mediacorp
  •  Thailand: MCOT, National Broadcasting Services of Thailand, Radio Thailand, Royal Thai Army Radio and Television Station and Thai Public Broadcasting Service
  •  Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City Television, Vietnam Television and Voice of Vietnam

Music

Music is important in ASEAN. New music was composed for the 34th ASEAN Summit in 2019. Many songs have been written for the group:

  • "The ASEAN Way" is the official song of ASEAN.
  • "ASEAN Song of Unity" or "ASEAN Hymn".
  • "Let Us Move Ahead", another ASEAN song.
  • "ASEAN Rise", for ASEAN's 40th anniversary.
  • "ASEAN Spirit", for ASEAN's 50th anniversary.

Sports

The main sports event in ASEAN is the Southeast Asian Games. This event happens every two years. Athletes from the ten member states compete. Timor-Leste, a non-member, also takes part.

Games Events

  • SEA Games
  • ASEAN University Games
  • ASEAN School Games
  • ASEAN Para Games

Championship Events

National Stadium Bukit Jalil 2014 AFF Suzuki Cup final
Bukit Jalil National Stadium during the second leg of the 2014 AFF Championship final
East Timor-Brunei 8 October 2024 79
Team Timor-Leste scoring a goal at the 2024 ASEAN Championship
  • Southeast Asian Football Championship (ASEAN Championship) – Since 1996
  • Southeast Asian Basketball Championship (SEABA Championship) – Since 1994
  • Southeast Asian Shooting Championship – Since 1967
  • Southeast Asian Cricket Championship
  • Southeast Asian Handball Championship
  • Southeast Asian Floorball Championships
  • Southeast Asian Hockey Championship
  • Southeast Asian Baseball Championship
  • Southeast Asian Volleyball Championship (SEA V.League) – Since 2019
  • Southeast Asian Sepaktakraw Championship
  • Southeast Asian Footvolley Championship
  • Southeast Asian Youth Athletics Championships
  • Southeast Asian Swimming Championships
  • Southeast Asian Gymnastics Championship
  • Southeast Asian Cycling Championship
  • Southeast Asian Shooting Championship
  • Southeast Asian Archery Championship
  • Southeast Asian Sailing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Rowing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Canoeing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Boxing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Fencing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Kurash Championship
  • Southeast Asian Wrestling Championship
  • Southeast Asian Weightlifting Championship
  • Southeast Asian Powerlifting Championship
  • Southeast Asian Bodybuilding Championship
  • Southeast Asian Judo Championship
  • Southeast Asian Jujitsu Championship
  • Southeast Asian Muaythai Championship
  • Southeast Asian Sambo Championship
  • Southeast Asian Vovinam Championship
  • Southeast Asian Karate Championship
  • Southeast Asian Taekwondo Championship
  • Southeast Asian Wushu Championship
  • Southeast Asian Pencak Silat Championship
  • Southeast Asian Badminton Championship
  • Southeast Asian Tennis Championship
  • Southeast Asian Table Tennis Championships
  • Southeast Asian Squash Championship
  • Southeast Asian Chess Championship
  • Southeast Asian Triathlon Championship
  • Southeast Asian Golf Championship (ASEAN PGA Tour) – Since 2007
  • Southeast Asian Esports Championship
  • Southeast Asian Bowling Championship
  • Southeast Asian Cue Sports Championship
  • Southeast Asian Arnis Championship
  • Southeast Asian Chinlone Championship
  • Southeast Asian Contract Bridge Championship
  • Southeast Asian Bowls Championship
  • Southeast Asian Go Championship
  • Southeast Asian Dragon Boat Championship
  • Southeast Asian Obstacle Racing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Polo Championship
  • Southeast Asian Waterskiing Championship
  • Southeast Asian Woodball Championship
  • Southeast Asian Finswimming Championship
  • Southeast Asian Kun Khmer Championship

Security

ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2023 completed their Sea Phase on 8 May 2023
Greeting between two naval fleets in the South China Sea during the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise, 8 May 2023

ASEAN is a key place to discuss security issues. Its main goal is to create understanding and cooperation among members. This helps them deal with threats and challenges. ASEAN uses a cooperative security approach. This means they build trust and share information. This helps reduce tension and conflict. The ASEAN Political-Security Community works to achieve this. It aims for a peaceful and stable Southeast Asia.

Piracy Challenges

Piracy in the Strait of Malacca and other seas is a big security threat. It makes it hard for members to work together to stop it. Reports show that incidents increased in 2020. This raised concerns that the COVID-19 pandemic might make piracy worse. ASEAN ministers agreed to strengthen efforts against crime during the pandemic.

ASEAN has a plan to secure the seas. This is important because the region is a key link for trade. It connects economies from the Middle East and India to China, Japan, and Australia. The plan has three main goals:

  • Sharing information and best practices.
  • Building trust based on international rules and cooperation.
  • Improving the ability of law enforcement to work together.

Criminal groups in Southeast Asia make it hard for ASEAN to coordinate. Even with plans, solving the problem needs deep cooperation. This can be difficult due to different interests among members. Especially for joint operations between navies. Unresolved border disputes also make cooperation harder.

To solve piracy, members have pushed for more cooperation. Some members suggest promoting relationships with other big countries. They also suggest changing how ASEAN makes decisions. This would help them work together better for economic and security goals.

Future Security Goals

ASEAN faces other important issues. These include challenges related to human rights. The group aims to promote peace and stability. It also works to ensure justice and the rule of law.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Asociación de Naciones de Asia Sudoriental para niños

  • ASEAN Smart Cities Network
  • ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women
  • ASEAN Common Time
  • ASEAN-India Car Rally 2012
  • ASEAN Sculpture Garden
  • Asian Monetary Unit
  • Asia Pacific Forum
  • Blue card system – ASEAN motor insurance scheme
  • Comprehensive Economic Partnership for East Asia
  • Congress of Southeast Asian Librarians
  • List of ASEAN countries by GDP (nominal)
  • List of country groupings
  • List of the largest trading partners of the ASEAN
  • List of multilateral free-trade agreements
  • Mekong-Ganga Cooperation
  • Pan-Asianism
  • Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
  • Southeast Asia Treaty Organisation
  • ASEAN Power Grid
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