Ever wondered why ASEAN is still around despite media skepticism? Discover the real reasons behind ASEAN's lasting impact and why its annual Summits draw so much attention. Let’s pull back the curtain and reveal what makes ASEAN tick.

The Tribes of ASEAN
ASEAN’s success relies on three key components: The Tribes, The Chair, and The Process. Dive into the tribes that drive ASEAN’s unique dynamics.

The ASEANites
Diplomats and officials from member states and the ASEAN Secretariat, who value winwin outcomes. As a former ASEANite, I invite fellow ASEANites and members of other tribes to comment and share their views.

The Dialogue Tribes
Officials from Dialogue Partner countries like Australia, China, and the US. Their competitive interactions challenge ASEAN to manage external pressures.

The Track 1.5 Tribe
Think tanks and strategic studies institutes. Their informal inputs enrich the ASEAN process with innovative ideas.

The Role of the ASEAN Chair
The ASEAN Chair wields significant influence, shaping outcomes and providing leaders with a global platform. Each Chair’s unique priorities drive ASEAN’s evolving agenda.

The ASEAN Process
This dynamic process starts with the Informal Foreign Ministers Retreat in January, leading to nearly 1000 meetings throughout the year. It’s a continuous cycle of shaping and refining ASEAN’s stance on global issues.

How Does It All Work?
The ASEANites set the agenda and chair the meetings. While Dialogue partners try to influence, they prefer ASEAN to lead, ensuring balanced regional cooperation. The ASEAN Chair remains a powerful force in steering the organization.
Check out this video on ASEAN Centrality.    • ASEAN in the driving seat  as an own...  

Conclusion: Is ASEAN Useless?
Absolutely not. ASEAN's unique way of operating balances diverse interests and external pressures, leveraging the Chair’s strengths. With Laos chairing this year and Malaysia and the Philippines up next, ASEAN continues to play a vital role in regional stability and cooperation.

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