The ten-nation ASEAN is once again struggling to deal with the situation in Myanmar. While the group tries to find a cohesive format of engagement and action, there are great expectations attached to its role as the President’s statement of the UN Security Council indicated. ASEAN is asked to live up to its charter– respect for democracy and human rights.
The Security Council supported ASEAN in engaging with all parties in Myanmar and encouraged them to abide by the principles of democracy, rule of law, good governance, protection of human rights and freedoms. They sought restraint from all parties, a constructive dialogue and peaceful solution.
Normally, it is left to the Chair of ASEAN, currently Brunei, to initiate steps. Brunei promptly called a meeting of foreign ministers soon after the political changes were announced in Naypyidaw on 1 February. Then, on March 2, it called a ministerial meeting. When violence in Myanmar escalated, informal meetings were held. However, the rapidly deteriorating situation in Myanmar–and the friction within the group–is a big challenge for ASEAN.
There is no unanimity among ASEAN countries on how to deal with Myanmar. As it is, democracy, though enshrined in the charter, is at a discount in ASEAN. Currently, among the ten, only three countries–Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore–have democratic credentials in operation.
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