Explaining Asean regionalism in Southeast Asia

• Main Author: Narine, Shaun 1966- (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: London Lynne Rienner Publ. 2002
• Subjects: ASEAN; Regionalism > Asia, Southeastern; Asia, Southeastern > Economic conditions; Asia, Southeastern > Politics and government > 1945-
• Online Access: Click Here to View Status and Holdings.

 Tracing the history and institutional development of the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) from its founding in 1967 through 2001, Narine (U. of British Columbia, Canada) argues that while ASEAN is, in some sense, a normative body that shares common regional interests, it is also an instrument for the pursuit of the narrow self-interests of its constituent states. She argues that the fundamental purpose of ASEAN is the protection and enhancement of the sovereignty of the member states. The reason for this preoccupation is because of the perceived institutional weakness of the states. ASEAN states resist any change in the institution because, with the exception of Thailand, the governments are all worried about the legitimacy of its hold on power. Annotation c. Book News, Inc.,Portland, OR.