Multilateralism and Regional Security in Asia: The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and APEC's Geopolitical Value

Date Published:

Abstract:

What are the prospects for a rules–based regional security environment in Asia? Major powers traditionally do not wish to be tied down by middle and small sized powers, but institutions are emerging in Asia, such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) group, in which multiple small and middle sized powers play leading roles. The ARF, in just two years, has succeeded in its aim to build a multilateral security dialogue that engages the relevant players, and helps to forestall possible conflicts in part through concrete transparency and confidence building measures. APEC, as a Transpacific forum, ties the United States more firmly into the fabric of the region and gives regional actors, including China and Taiwan (Chinese Taipei), alternative settings in which to pursue political cooperation while joining a wider fabric of economic relations beyond the region.

Notes:

Working Paper 97–02, Weatherhead Center for International Affairs, Harvard University, February 1997.