Security in Southeast Asia: It's Not About the War on Terrorism
Abstract
The United States' response to international terrorism after the attacks of 11 September 2001 is accepted as inevitable by most Southeast Asia countries, probably necessary, but not of vital strategic significance to Southeast Asia. Increased American engagement and expenditure are generally welcomed but are not seen as immediately positive or negative for regional security. Southeast Asians are most concerned with the region's long-term stability. Specific worries are Indonesia's management of domestic instability and future role in the region, political Islam, September 11's impact on state-society relations, and the development of a true community of Southeast Asian nations. Other large states with a sub-regional reach (China, Japan and India) are important mainly to the extent that they affect economic activity and ensure prosperity. Southeast Asia is generally stable. The events of September 11, 2001 did not alter geo-political relations within the region, or between the region and external powers, and have done little more than highlight issues (such as structural reform or political Islam) that were just as important although less discussed before then.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA417218
Entities
People
- Jim Rolfe
Organizations
- Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies