Southeast Asian states within ASEAN agree that security relations with the great powers are best achieved by enmeshing the latter in ASEAN procedures. The primary goal of ASEAN is that China, Japan, the United States, and India commit to maintaining Southeast Asia's autonomy, integrity, and prosperity. ASEAN is less successful in resolving conflicts internal to the region including human rights in Burma, transnational terrorism, environmental concerns, human trafficking, and illegal arms trade. Sovereignty protection frequently trumps cooperation on these issues.

"August 2007."

ASEAN: has expansion led to the "Peter Principle?" -- Nuclear weapons and Southeast Asia: the path not taken -- The ASEAN Regional Forum: is the tail wagging the dog? -- Other forms of regional security cooperation -- Conclusion.