ASEAN Centrality amid Increasing Global Multipolarity

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations is considered one of the most successful regional cooperations and has played a remarkable role in regional and potentially global order through principles of consensus, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of conflicts, providing a platform for dialogue both among member states and external partners. Crucial to its architecture is ASEAN centrality, the principle that directs ASEAN to be at the center of every mechanism and discussion concerning political, security, and economic issues, among others. Over the years, however, regional and global developments have placed some weight on the region, leaving the credibility of ASEAN’s centrality in question. For instance, the global order, once thought to be aligned with a unipolar authority, the United States, is increasingly exhibiting the characteristics of a multipolar world, with the emergence of stronger and more independent economies. To understand how the increasing global multipolarity influences ASEAN, this paper investigates how the shifting global geopolitical landscape, characterized by power rivalries and economic interdependence, impacts ASEAN in its central role in regional affairs. The study highlights the varied short-term geopolitical influences that diminish over time, emphasizing the need for ASEAN and the Philippines to strengthen regional integration, diversify partnerships, and balance external relations to maintain and sustain resilience and leadership in the region. Comments on this paper are welcome within 60 days from the date of posting. Email publications@pids.gov.ph.