The echoes of Myanmar's unfolding political saga have reverberated across the globe since February 2021, capturing headlines and drawing sharp international critique. The sight of a nation, on the “cusp of a burgeoning democracy,” being thrust back into the shadows of military rule has been both tragic and unsettling. It's no longer just about the ousting of an elected government but the haunting visuals of streets ablaze, bravehearted protestors, and the heart-wrenching tales of families torn apart. The world can't just be a passive observer; it beckons a call to action.
Introduction
Enter the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the regional bloc that has always been seen as the big brother of Southeast Asian nations. With Myanmar as one of its members, the onus on ASEAN is tremendous. But alas, the very fabric of ASEAN, built on the principle of non-interference and respect for national sovereignty, seems to be its Achilles' heel in the face of the Myanmar crisis. The bloc’s internal tug-of-war between upholding these principles and mounting a collective response is glaring.
But all hope isn't lost. As we scour the horizon for solutions, Taiwan's New Southbound Policy (NSP) gleams with potential. Initiated in 2016, this policy wasn't just Taiwan reaching out, but it was an invitation for nations in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Australasia to collaborate and forge ties that go beyond trade. It was a vision of shared growth and mutual respect.
Imagine the possibilities if Myanmar, a nation rich in resources but torn by strife, could harness Taiwan's technological prowess. Envision a scenario where through this policy, bridges of trust are built between the diverse communities of Myanmar, paving the way for reconciliation. Taiwan’s emphasis on people-to-people interactions can be the very balm that soothes Myanmar's deep-seated ethnic and political divides.
To put it succinctly, the Myanmar conundrum isn't just ASEAN's to solve. It's an appeal to the collective conscience of the region. By marrying the strengths of ASEAN's diplomatic might with the visionary approach of Taiwan's NSP, we might just find the salvation to heal Myanmar. After all, in unity, lies unparalleled strength.
Taiwan's geopolitical pivot: Unpacking the NSP
Taiwan's regional dance has taken a fascinating twist in recent years, and it's all thanks to its visionary NSP. Launched with much fanfare by President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016, this policy isn’t just a testament to Taiwan's geopolitical foresight, but also a manifestation of its desire to diversify and deepen its ties in the neighborhood.
Picture this: a vibrant tapestry of 18 nations, each unique in its cultural and economic tapestry, stretching across Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Australasia. This is Taiwan's new playing field, and the game? Building bridges of commerce, innovation, education, and even tourism. In a world where power equations are rapidly changing, Taiwan's pitch is clear - let's grow together.
The figures themselves are nothing short of astounding. Taiwan's economic ties with its southern neighbors surged in 2021, reaching a record-breaking US$70.24 billion in exports to the ASEAN countries. This impressive growth represented a remarkable 32 percent increase compared to the previous year.[1] In 2021, Taiwan's dynamic foray into Southeast Asia witnessed a remarkable surge in foreign direct investments (FDI), soaring to a substantial US$5.5 billion. These investments extended their reach across critical domains, encompassing sustainable energy, environmental conservation, and cutting-edge smart transportation. Notably, a significant 37% of Taiwan's FDI, channeled during the first 11 months of 2021, flowed into Southeast Asia.[2] This trend underscores the pivotal role of Taiwan's NSP (NSP) in fortifying the nation's regional presence.
As astutely noted by Ratih Kabinawa, a doctoral candidate at the University of Western Australia, the NSP serves as a tangible avenue for Taiwan to elevate its identity and values within the region and diversify its societal and market composition. These investments are not mere financial transactions; they epitomize a resolute commitment to a shared, borderless future, symbolizing Taiwan's unwavering dedication to global prominence.
Yet, for Taiwan, this isn’t just about dollars and cents. At the core of Taiwan's NSP resides a captivating soft power appeal that transcends mere economic considerations. Notably, Taiwan's endearing labor collaboration, particularly with Indonesia, illuminates a path forward in a world grappling with intricate issues surrounding migration and labor rights. Going beyond the confines of international human rights checkboxes, Taiwan's 'Taiwan's Warm Home' program stands as a resounding testament to its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare and rights of Indonesian migrant workers. Taiwan's profound dedication to nurturing enduring trust dovetails seamlessly with its overarching ambition to ensure that its Asian neighbors tangibly experience the benevolence and warmth of its government and people, as it metamorphoses into a culturally rich, inclusive society.
Taiwan's NSP, encompassing innovative industry, talent cultivation, social engagement, medical collaboration, agricultural advancement, and cultural exchange, underscores Taiwan's mission to invigorate Asia through cooperative ventures. Beyond regional boundaries, Taiwan's endeavors position it as a solution, rather than a quandary, for bolstering regional stability and propelling national growth. Taiwan's stellar ascent on the Global Muslim Travel Index and its introduction of the region to its distinctive lifestyle, fashion, culture, alongside its quality goods and commodities, are all hallmarks of its steadfast commitment to regional prosperity and global eminence.
And speaking of trust, no analysis of this policy is complete without a nod to the ASEAN bloc. As a geopolitical writer, it's evident that Taiwan's heartbeat resonates with the ASEAN nations. Their shared history, geographical ties, and mutual interests make them natural allies. The essence isn't just diplomatic niceties but real, tangible mutual growth. In the grand theatre of geopolitics, Taiwan's NSP isn't just a move; it's a masterstroke. One that promises shared destinies and brighter futures.
Bridging Myanmar's gap: Could Taiwan's youth-focused Southbound Policy be the answer?
As Myanmar grapples with its multifaceted political quandaries, a pivotal aspect remains largely overlooked: the role of its youth in fostering regional connectivity and resilience. As the world watches and waits, there's an intriguing actor on the horizon with the potential to play a transformative role in this narrative—Taiwan, armed with its ambitious NSP.
The success stories of post-conflict nations often hinge on youth engagement, a demographic that holds the power to influence the trajectory of a nation's future. Taking cues from the success of the European Union's Erasmus program, which championed the exchange of ideas and nurtured future leaders, Taiwan's NSP can zero in on similar youth-centric regional building initiatives in Myanmar.
Imagine, for instance, Myanmar's youth being offered scholarships to study in Taiwan's esteemed institutions, akin to the Fulbright Program, that fostered goodwill between the U.S. and countries recovering from World War II. Such programs not only provide quality education but also cultivate ambassadors of peace, understanding, and cooperation. These young individuals return with not just degrees but with shared experiences, stories, and an enhanced perspective on regional connectivity.
Furthermore, Taiwan can facilitate youth-led entrepreneurial exchanges, mirroring the successes of ASEAN's Young Entrepreneurs Association. By sponsoring startup incubators that encourage collaboration between Taiwanese and Myanmar's youth, we could witness innovations that cater to regional challenges, be it in tech, agriculture, or sustainable development.
Beyond mere academia and entrepreneurial ventures, Taiwan's potential in cultural diplomacy is substantial. By taking a leaf out of Japan's playbook with the JENESYS initiative, Taiwan can set the stage for immersive experiences that bridge the gap between its youth and their Myanmar peers.
In fact, Taiwan has already begun to flaunt its soft power capabilities. Take, for instance, the SEASAT Youth Camp. This innovative program, with participating youth from Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Taiwan, does more than just showcase Taipei's bustling streets. It delves deep, unraveling the intricacies of Taiwan's political machinery, its democratic ethos, and its rich tapestry of cultural heritage - from the rhythms of traditional Hakka songs to the poetic beauty of its age-old temples. Programs like SEASAT are not just diplomatic tools but a testament to Taiwan's commitment to fostering regional understanding and collaboration. They encapsulate the island nation's vision for a more interconnected, empathetic Asia.
Indeed, Taiwan's engagement with Myanmar isn't a one-way street of benefaction. The intricacies of Myanmar, with its rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and historical narratives, offer Taiwanese youth a lens into the soul of Southeast Asia, an understanding far deeper than what textbooks and lectures impart. It reminds me of a stroll I once took in Taipei, down a lane christened "Myanmar Street." Nestled amidst the bustling city, this enclave captures the essence of Myanmar, from vibrant pagodas to aromatic Myanmarese curries wafting through the air, echoing the tales of generations of Myanmarese who've made Taiwan their home. It stands as a testament to the shared history and the promise of mutual growth, a microcosm of the larger symbiotic relationship that Taiwan and Myanmar can cultivate.
Regional building, as history underscores, is not just about top-tier diplomacy and trade pacts. It's about the grassroots connections, the shared dreams of young minds, and the collaborative ventures that seed the future. The youth, with their adaptability, optimism, and digital nativeness, are poised to be the vanguard of change.
To some, this might sound like an idealistic vision. But remember, all transformative movements in history, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the Arab Spring, were powered by the aspirations and energies of the youth. Taiwan, with its NSP, has the blueprint. By focusing on youth-driven regional building, it could lead the charge in not just aiding Myanmar's recovery but in sculpting a brighter future for the entire region.
Can Taiwan and ASEAN craft a winning strategy?
In the complex web of Southeast Asian geopolitics, where internal strife often spills over borders, ASEAN stands as a sentinel, steering the region towards stability. Yet, as the Myanmar quagmire deepens, there’s a silent, yet potent player that could prove instrumental: Taiwan and its NSP.
At first glance, this may raise eyebrows. Why would a non-ASEAN member state be of any relevance? But delve deeper, and the synergy is palpable. Much like how the Marshall Plan and the United Nations' coordinated efforts were pivotal in post-WWII Europe, the combined prowess of ASEAN's diplomatic heft and Taiwan's NSP could be the panacea Myanmar needs.
The ASEAN approach, often shrouded in its sacrosanct principle of non- interference, has its merits. But as the Myanmar situation evolves, it's akin to the EU grappling with the Yugoslav crisis in the '90s - internal dynamics can ripple across a region. Here, Taiwan, with its policy centered around socio-economic collaboration, can operate in tandem with ASEAN’s larger geopolitical framework.
Historical precedents abound. Take Indonesia's adept diplomacy during Cambodia’s political quagmire, orchestrating peace through ASEAN. In a similar vein, Taiwan's role could be akin to the Nordic countries' grassroots interventions in the Balkans, focusing on rejuvenating the socio-economic fabric while ASEAN navigates the political minefields.
A two-pronged approach emerges. While ASEAN, with its seasoned diplomatic machinery, can facilitate top-tier dialogues, Taiwan could ignite Myanmar’s grassroots. Much like Germany’s instrumental role in bolstering Eastern Europe's economies post the Cold War, Taiwan's economic prowess could be Myanmar’s springboard for revival.
And then there's Taiwan's unique geopolitical position. In the Southeast Asian mosaic, where nations swing between democracy and autocracy, Taiwan stands as a beacon of balanced governance. Drawing parallels with Switzerland's neutral stance in the EU, Taiwan can serve as an even-handed mediator, bridging divides within ASEAN's multifaceted bloc.
In essence, the Taiwan-ASEAN synergy isn't just a proposition; it's a blueprint for Myanmar's resurgence. By dovetailing political dialogues with on-ground economic rejuvenation, Myanmar can be steered from the precipice. And as history has shown when regional forces collaborate with a shared vision, monumental shifts are not just possible; they're inevitable.
In the backdrop of Myanmar's crisis, a fresh narrative is emerging, one that sees Taiwan's NSP not merely as an outreach, but as a tangible lifeline, reminiscent of Germany's pivotal role during the Balkan upheaval. ASEAN's legacy of diplomacy combined with Taiwan's invigorating approach offers a blueprint that’s both audacious and strategic. This isn't just geopolitics— it's a masterclass in transformative regional collaboration. As we reflect on Southeast Asia's changing landscape, let this potential partnership be a beacon, showing that in the face of adversity, innovation and collaboration can indeed chart a new
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[1] "Taiwan hits record high exports to ASEAN member states," Taiwan Today, July 07, 2022, https://taiwantoday.tw/news.php?unit=6&post=221710.
[2] Randy Mulyanto, "Taiwan makes new push to drum up Southeast Asia investment," Nikkei Asia, January 18, 2022, https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/Taiwan-makes-new-push-to-drum-up-Southeast-Asia-investment.
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About the Author
Hree P. Samudra is an unstoppable force, currently lending her expertise as the Asia and the Pacific Peacebuilding Program Officer at the prestigious Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP). Her reach extends even further, as she proudly assumes the distinguished role of Board Chair for the Emerging Voice Network within the esteemed British-American Security Information Council. This dynamic leader operates from the iconic city of London, steering significant initiatives and dialogues for the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Hree's academic journey is nothing short of remarkable. An alumna of the prestigious Universitas Padjadjaran, she emerged as a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with Cum Laude degree. Her insatiable thirst for knowledge led her to the illustrious halls of the University of Pennsylvania, with full-ride scholarships, where she proudly secured her Non-Bachelor's degree in 2021. Presently, she's poised to scale new academic heights, as she prepares to embark on a transformative journey to attain her Master of Asian Studies (MASIA) from the revered School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University.
Hree's academic interests form a vivid kaleidoscope, encompassing critical areas that reflect her dedication to positive change. As a staunch advocate for both "Women, Peace, and Security (WPS)" and "Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS)," she emerges as a catalyst for transformative impact. Her unyielding dedication also ventures into the profound intricacies of "Humanitarian Impacts of Nuclear Weapons," where she spotlights the pressing issues surrounding global disarmament and human security. Simultaneously, Hree emerges as an astute scholar in the realm of "Security and Regionalism in the Asia-Pacific Region," where she unravels the intricate diplomatic dynamics shaping the destiny of this pivotal region.
Hree can be reached at [email protected]. Her inbox welcomes fruitful dialogues and meaningful endeavors.