Why does Asean prefer diplomacy over war since 1967?

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ASEAN's Enduring Strength Lies in its Commitment to Diplomatic Resolution

ASEAN's fundamental strength, particularly its consistent preference for diplomacy over military conflict, stems from the historical context of its founding members in 1967. These nations, having recently experienced colonialism, internal insurgencies, ideological divisions, and deep mistrust among themselves, established ASEAN with the primary objective of preventing disagreements from escalating into open warfare. This commitment to dialogue, negotiation, and consultation has been a defining characteristic of the organisation for nearly six decades, serving as a crucial mechanism for managing bilateral tensions and reducing strategic uncertainty within the region.
Historical Context of ASEAN's Founding

Established in 1967, the original member states of ASEAN carried the recent memories of profound instability. The aftermath of colonialism left many nations grappling with establishing their own identities and borders, often amidst internal strife and external suspicions. Ideological rivalries, particularly during the Cold War era, further exacerbated regional tensions. It was within this complex and often volatile environment that the founders of ASEAN sought to create an organisation that would prioritise peaceful coexistence and cooperative problem-solving, thereby ensuring that historical grievances and emerging disputes would not devolve into armed conflict.
Normative Commitment to Dialogue and Consultation

Throughout its history, ASEAN has demonstrated a persistent adherence to its founding principles, consistently returning to consultation, dialogue, and confidence-building measures even during periods of significant bilateral friction. A recent example is the maritime disagreement between Thailand and Cambodia, where Cambodia's decision to pursue conciliation under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) rather than resorting to military escalation exemplifies ASEAN's ingrained norm. This approach underscores the belief that legal and diplomatic instruments must be thoroughly explored before any coercive measures are considered, reinforcing a strategic culture that values inclusiveness and practical cooperation over bloc confrontation.
Reducing Strategic Uncertainty Through Continuous Engagement

Asean's most significant comparative advantage lies in its capacity to mitigate strategic uncertainty through ongoing dialogue, notwithstanding the diverse political systems, economic development levels, and historical experiences of its member states. The organisation has consciously cultivated a strategic culture that rests upon these principles, aiming to create a stable environment conducive to economic growth and regional security. The ongoing Thailand-Cambodia maritime dispute, while complex, is managed within this framework, as both nations continue to seek peaceful avenues for resolution, demonstrating that the emergence of disagreements is less critical than the sustained choice of diplomacy in addressing them.

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Why does Asean prefer diplomacy over war since 1967?

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