7-10-2024 (BANGKOK) As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) prepares for its upcoming summit in Laos, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has called for the bloc to assume a pivotal role in resolving the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. Speaking at an event in Bangkok on 7 October, Shinawatra emphasised the urgency of bringing peace to the troubled nation, which has been embroiled in civil conflict since the military coup of February 2021.
“ASEAN must play an important role in bringing peace back to Myanmar as soon as possible,” Shinawatra declared, signalling a potential reinvigoration of the regional body’s efforts to address the protracted struggle. The Prime Minister’s comments come at a critical juncture, as ASEAN leaders gear up for their annual summit on 9 October, where Myanmar’s turmoil is expected to feature prominently on the agenda.
Shinawatra outlined plans for Thailand to collaborate closely with Malaysia, the incoming ASEAN chair for 2025, in pursuing diplomatic avenues to resolve the conflict. This strategy appears to build upon earlier sentiments expressed by her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, who in April suggested that the apparent weakening of Myanmar’s military junta might present an opportunity for negotiation.
However, ASEAN’s peace initiative, known as the Five-Point Consensus, has made little headway since its inception in April 2021, despite repeated calls for dialogue. The Myanmar junta’s steadfast refusal to engage with opposition groups, whom they label as terrorists, has been a significant obstacle to progress.
The humanitarian toll of the conflict continues to mount, with a third of Myanmar’s 55 million population now in need of aid. This dire situation has pushed the issue to the forefront of ASEAN’s concerns, prompting more assertive diplomatic efforts. Last week, Indonesia hosted an international meeting involving the United Nations and Myanmar’s opposition forces, underscoring the regional commitment to finding a resolution.
ASEAN’s approach to the crisis has not been without internal tensions. The bloc’s decision to exclude Myanmar’s junta leadership from its summits, citing non-compliance with the agreed peace plan, has caused friction among member states. This stance reflects the growing frustration within ASEAN over the lack of progress and the junta’s intransigence.
