GE2406

A WORLD OF REGIONS
ASIAN REGIONALISM

In today's interconnected world, understanding global divides and regional dynamics is essential to grasp the
complexities of contemporary global issues.

Asian Regionalism
Asia, a continent known for its cultural diversity and economic dynamism, experiences various forms of
regional cooperation and integration that influence its development trajectory. Dubbed Asian regionalism, it
refers to the process of Asian countries coming together to foster cooperation, integration, and collective
decision-making within the region. This regional cooperation aims to enhance economic growth, political
stability, and cultural exchange among Asian nations.

Asia is home to various regional organizations that promote cooperation across different sectors.

ORGANIZATION FOUNDING YEAR PURPOSE

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation 1989 Promote sustainable economic growth and
(APEC) prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.
FOUNDING MEMBERS:
• Australia • Malaysia
• Brunei • New Zealand
• Canada • Philippines
• Indonesia • Singapore
• Japan • Thailand
• South Korea • United States
Association of Southeast Asian Nations 1967 Economic integration, political cooperation,
(ASEAN) social progress, and cultural development.
MEMBERS:
• Brunei • Myanmar
• Cambodia • Philippines
• Indonesia • Singapore
• Laos • Thailand
• Malaysia • Vietnam
Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi- 1997 To ensure dynamic and mutual cooperation,
Sectoral Technical and Economic especially in the areas that are of common
Cooperation (BIMSTEC) interest to the member countries.
To create an environment for ensuring
expeditious economic growth in the South Asian
and Southeast Asian countries.
MEMBERS:
• Bangladesh • Nepal
• Bhutan • Sri Lanka
• India • Thailand
• Myanmar

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ORGANIZATION FOUNDING YEAR PURPOSE

South Asian Association for Regional 1985 Regional cooperation in economic, social,
Cooperation (SAARC) cultural, technical, and scientific fields. Attempts
to address common challenges in the region and
foster regional stability.
MEMBERS:
• Afghanistan • Maldives
• Bangladesh • Nepal
• Bhutan • Pakistan
• India • Sri Lanka
South Asia Subregional Economic 2001 Enhancing cross-border connectivity between
Cooperation (SASEC) the member nations, promoting trade and
economic growth.
MEMBERS:
• Bangladesh • Myanmar
• Bhutan • Nepal
• India • Sri Lanka
• Maldives

Impact of Globalization on Asian Regionalism

Globalization profoundly influences Asian regionalism in several ways, shaping its economic, political, and
socio-cultural dimensions. Here are the key impacts of globalization on Asian regionalism.

Trade and Investment

Globalization facilitates increased trade flows and investment within Asia and between Asian countries and
the rest of the world. Regional economic integration efforts such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and
bilateral trade agreements are accelerated by globalization, promoting cross-border economic activities.

Supply Chains
Globalization has led to the development of complex supply chains across Asia, with countries specializing in
different stages of production. This integration enhances economic efficiency and competitiveness within the
region.

Regional Organizations
Globalization encourages Asian countries to form and strengthen regional organizations such as ASEAN,
SAARC, and BIMSTEC. These organizations promote political dialogue, conflict resolution, and cooperation on
regional issues such as security, climate change, and disaster management.

Soft Power and Diplomacy

Increased connectivity and cultural exchanges due to globalization enhance countries' soft power. Asian
countries use cultural diplomacy, tourism, and educational exchanges to strengthen regional ties and influence
international relations.

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Cultural Exchange
Globalization facilitates cultural exchanges among Asian countries, promoting mutual understanding,
tolerance, and appreciation of diversity. This cultural interaction fosters regional identity and cohesion.

Social Development
Globalization contributes to the spread of technology, knowledge, and best practices in areas such as
healthcare, education, and urban planning. This enhances social development and resilience within the region.

Digital Connectivity
Globalization promotes digital connectivity across Asia, bridging urban-rural divides and improving access to
information and communication technologies (ICTs). This connectivity supports economic growth, innovation,
and entrepreneurship.

Technological Innovation
Globalization encourages collaboration and innovation in technology-intensive industries across Asian
countries. Joint research initiatives, technology transfers, and investments in innovation hubs contribute to
regional technological advancement.

Challenges and Opportunities

Globalization can exacerbate inequalities within Thus, globalization shapes Asian regionalism by
Asian countries and across the region. Disparities in promoting economic integration, enhancing political
economic development, digital access, and cooperation, facilitating cultural exchange,
educational opportunities may hinder inclusive advancing technological innovation, and presenting
growth and social cohesion. Globalization influences both challenges and opportunities for sustainable
Asia's environmental policies and practices. The development. Asian countries increasingly recognize
region faces challenges such as pollution, resource the interconnectedness of their economies and
depletion, and climate change, which require societies, driving deeper regional integration and
regional cooperation and sustainable development collaboration in a globalized world.
strategies.

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression

Globalization and Asian regionalism have complex and multifaceted impacts on the expression of Sexual
Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) in Asia.

ASPECT IMPACT
Awareness and Visibility Global Influence. The spread of ideas and advocacy from Western countries
influences discussions and perceptions about SOGI in Asia.
Awareness and Visibility Regional Responses. Platforms like ASEAN and SAARC facilitate exchanges on
SOGI issues among member states.
Legal and Policy Frameworks Global Standards. Pressure from global entities promotes adherence to
international human rights norms regarding SOGI rights.

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ASPECT IMPACT
Regional Variations. Adoption of varied legal protections across Asian
countries influenced by cultural and political contexts.
Social and Cultural Attitudes Cultural Exchange. Globalization exposes Asia to diverse perspectives,
challenging traditional norms and promoting acceptance of SOGI diversity.
Local Contexts. SOGI expression is influenced by local cultural and religious
beliefs, nuanced by regional responses to global norms.
Challenges and Resistance Conservative Backlash. Resistance to perceived foreign influences may
restrict advocacy efforts for SOGI rights.
Legal and Social Stigma. Continued stigma and discrimination based on SOGI
in legal frameworks and societal attitudes, shaped by regional responses to
global influences.
Access to Services and Support Healthcare and Social Services. Globalization enhances access to healthcare
and support networks for individuals with diverse SOGI.
Digital Connectivity. Increased internet access facilitates SOGI advocacy and
support networks, bridging gaps in regions with limited local resources.

While they promote awareness, legal reforms, and cultural exchange that can advance SOGI rights, they also
encounter challenges from conservative backlash and varying local contexts. Moving forward, continued
dialogue, advocacy, and collaboration within and beyond regional frameworks are crucial to fostering inclusive
societies where all individuals can express their sexual orientations and gender identities freely and without
discrimination.

Indigenous Peoples in the Philippine Context

Globalization and Asian regionalism have profound impacts on Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Philippines,
influencing their socio-economic conditions, cultural preservation, and rights.

ASPECT IMPACT
Economic Integration Globalization. Increased global trade and investment may lead to the
exploitation of natural resources in IP lands for commercial gain, affecting
traditional livelihoods and land rights.
Regional Economic Initiatives. Integration into regional economic
frameworks may create opportunities for IPs to participate in markets and
value chains but also poses risks of marginalization and loss of land rights.
Cultural Identity and Cultural Exchange. Exposure to global cultures can enrich cultural diversity
Preservation but also threaten traditional knowledge and practices.
Preservation Efforts. Regional and global recognition of indigenous cultures
may promote cultural pride and heritage conservation efforts.
Legal and Land Rights International Standards. Global human rights norms may influence Philippine
policies on indigenous land rights and self-determination.
Regional Cooperation. Participation in regional indigenous rights networks
may enhance advocacy for land rights and legal protections.

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ASPECT IMPACT
Education and Social Access to Education. Globalization may improve access to education for IPs,
Development but cultural biases and language barriers can hinder effective learning.
Access to Social Services. Participation in regional initiatives could enhance
access to healthcare, infrastructure, and other services, improving quality of
life.

Environmental Impact Global Markets. Demand for natural resources in global markets can lead to
environmental degradation and loss of traditional lands for IPs.
Conservation Efforts. Collaboration on environmental protection initiatives
can benefit indigenous territories and promote sustainable resource
management.

Globalization and Asian regionalism present both opportunities and challenges for Indigenous Peoples in the
Philippines. Effective policies and frameworks that respect and protect their rights, culture, and environment
are crucial for ensuring inclusive and sustainable development that benefits all segments of society.

Reference
Ananthavinayagan, T.V. & Shenoy, A.V. [Eds.] (2024). The wretched of the global south: Critical approaches to
international human rights law. Springer
Chu, C.P. & Park, C.S. [Eds.] (2023). Strategies in changing global orders: Competition and conflict versus
cooperation. Springer
Hastiadi, F.F. [Ed.] (2024). Economic resurgence in ASEAN: Navigating convergence, innovation, and trade for
enhanced productivity. Palgrave Macmillan
Sumugat, R. [RodmarSumugat] (2023). Asian regionalism 4.pptx [Slide show]. SlideShare.
https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/asian-regionalism-4pptx/255664917
Villorente, J.O. [JhemOrtegaVillorente] (2023). ASIAN-REGIONALISM.pptx [Slide show]. SlideShare.
https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/asianregionalismpptx-255380502/255380502

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