Susannah Patton

In this discussion, Susannah Patton, Deputy Research Director at the Lowy Institute, shares her insights on the upcoming Global Alignment Index. She reveals that the U.S. and China are more evenly matched in influence than previously thought. The conversation covers the methodology behind measuring public opinion and UN voting patterns since 2008. They explore Russia's limited economic role in Southeast Asia and its surprising influence dynamics. Additionally, Susannah highlights how trade and investment shape shifting alignments, especially amidst global events like Ukraine and Gaza.

Susannah Patton, Deputy Director at the Lowy Institute, and Rahman Yaacob, a research fellow specializing in Southeast Asian defense diplomacy, dive into the Southeast Asia Influence Index project. They explore the complex geopolitics of the region, revealing that China holds a slight lead over the US in influence. The duo discusses surprising findings, like India's limited reach, and highlights the importance of middle powers. They emphasize the need for Southeast Asian countries to diversify their partnerships amid growing external pressures.