1. WHAT IS ASEAN

1. WHAT IS ASEAN

Tag these articles: SEATMS

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20 October 2025

1. What is ASEAN

ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
It was founded in 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
Today it includes 10 member countries, with Timor-Leste preparing to join as the 11th.

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2. The Members

Indonesia
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Brunei
Vietnam
Laos
Myanmar
Cambodia

(Timor-Leste - observer, expected to become full member soon.)

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3. Why It Was Created

ASEAN was born in the Cold War era, when Southeast Asia was unstable and divided.
The founders wanted to prevent regional conflict, boost trade, and create a sense of unity.
It was also a way to keep outside powers - the US, China, and the Soviet Union - from dominating regional affairs.

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4. How ASEAN Works

Decisions are made by consensus, meaning every member must agree.
The ASEAN Secretariat is based in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Annual Summits bring together leaders and partners such as China, Japan, the United States, and the European Union.
It operates through three main pillars: Economic, Political-Security, and Socio-Cultural.

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5. Main Achievements

ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) reduced tariffs and boosted regional trade.
The ASEAN Community (2015) encouraged closer economic and political integration.
The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) provides a platform for security dialogue.
Visa-free travel agreements among several members have encouraged tourism and mobility.

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6. Ongoing Challenges

Economic gaps remain wide between richer states (Singapore, Malaysia) and poorer ones (Laos, Myanmar).
Human rights and democracy issues persist, especially in Myanmar.
The consensus model slows decision-making in times of crisis.
The region faces pressure from both China and the United States, each seeking influence.

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7. Summary

ASEAN is Southeast Asia’s family of nations – a community built on peace, cooperation, and regional identity.
It has prevented wars and encouraged trade, but its slow, cautious style limits its global impact.

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Glossary

Consensus – all members must agree before taking action.
Integration – combining economies or policies to work as one.
Regional forum – a meeting space for countries to discuss shared issues.
Bloc – a group of countries acting together politically or economically.

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