Publication

This paper discusses the potential for strengthening cooperation between ASEAN and the UN in light of Thailand's 2008-2009 ASEAN chairmanship. Despite some progress, the authors argue, cooperation between the two bodies lags far behind cooperation between the UN and other major regional organizations, such as the AU and the EU. According to them, there remain sensitivities about the UN becoming too involved in regional matters, particularly in the areas of peace and security and human rights. However, they see the surprising success of the joint ASEAN-UN response to Cyclone Nargis as an indication of a potential constructive discussion.