Publication

This report takes stock of ASEAN following a difficult period marked by the December 2004 tsunami, several bilateral territorial and economic crises, and other disputes between different member states. The author points out that inter-state relations in the area must not be taken for granted but are in fact rather vulnerable, especially with regard to Indonesia. ASEAN has not played a strong role in settling existing disputes but has, nevertheless, enforced solidarity and diplomacy, which is the proper course of action to take in future events.