As the world continues to watch the unfolding crisis in Myanmar with concern, the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has come under increasing scrutiny. With Myanmar being a member state of ASEAN, it is natural for the regional body to have a vested interest in the situation. In this article, we’ll take a look at the position of ASEAN on Myanmar, and how it is being perceived by its Secretary General, who is at the forefront of ASEAN’s response to this critical situation.
During his official visit to Thailand, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, the first Cambodian Secretary-General of ASEAN, spoke about the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. He emphasised that the Myanmar conflict is complex and there is no quick fix to the situation. The Secretary-General also emphasised that the people of Myanmar must decide their future and the solutions to the country’s problems should be led by Myanmar through their own processes. However, ASEAN can assist and facilitate dialogue.
Dr. Hourn highlighted that ASEAN’s position on Myanmar is not to interfere but to assist the country in reducing violence on the ground. He added that ASEAN is part of the solution, not the problem, and remains optimistic about resolving the Myanmar crisis; ASEAN will remain fully engaged with Myanmar. Furthermore, he disclosed that ASEAN’s Foreign Ministers have taken responsibility for devising a strategy for the implementation of the five-point consensus, as mandated by ASEAN leaders. He expressed optimism that the plan will be endorsed by member states in the near future.
The crisis in Myanmar has been perceived as a threat to ASEAN’s unity and consensus between mainland and maritime ASEAN. Dr. Hourn, however, stated that there is no desire from the members to change the ASEAN consensus style, at least for now. He noted that the practice is within the ASEAN charter and it is the modus operandi of ASEAN.
Dr. Hourn also highlighted the Indonesian government’s active involvement in diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation in Myanmar, although their efforts are through discreet channels. He emphasised that the search for solutions to Myanmar’s problems should be led by Myanmar through Myanmar’s processes, but ASEAN should assist and facilitate the dialogue.
In conclusion, Dr. Hourn’s statements highlighted the complexities of the Myanmar crisis and the need for the country to lead its solutions through its own processes. However, ASEAN can assist and facilitate dialogue while remaining optimistic about resolving the crisis. The crisis in Myanmar has affected ASEAN’s unity and consensus, but there is no desire from the members to change the ASEAN consensus style, at least for now. ASEAN is committed to staying fully engaged with Myanmar.
