Mark Leonard's World in 30 Minutes
The world after the West: Lynn Kuok on south-east Asia
Aug 30, 2024
Lynn Kuok, the Lee Kuan Yew Chair in Southeast Asian Studies, dives into the dynamic geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia. She discusses how ASEAN influences regional identity amidst China's rising power and the U.S.-China rivalry. Lynn highlights shifting alliances, particularly recent polling reflecting support for these powers across countries like the Philippines and Laos. The conversation also covers the pragmatic responses of Southeast Asian nations to global events like the Ukraine invasion, showcasing their unique balance of realism and values.
38:32
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Quick takeaways
- Southeast Asia is transitioning towards a multipolar world, leading to a significant shift in regional alliances, particularly favoring China over the U.S.
- ASEAN plays a vital role in promoting stability and cooperation among diverse political systems, despite regional challenges like the South China Sea dispute.
Deep dives
Shifting Attitudes Towards Global Powers
Southeast Asian countries are increasingly observing the transition from a unipolar to a multipolar world, with significant implications for their foreign relations. An annual poll recently indicated a noteworthy shift in sentiment, with more Southeast Asians favoring China over the United States for the first time in years, reflecting a changing perception of power dynamics. The Philippines remains a notable ally of the U.S., but other nations, particularly those with close economic ties to China, such as Laos, are starting to favor China more significantly. This shift raises questions about the long-term implications for U.S.-China relations in a region traditionally reliant on the U.S. for security.
