The Obama administration's pivot-to-Asia policy establishes an important place for Southeast Asia in U.S. foreign policy. But Washington's attention to the region has fluctuated dramatically, from the intense intervention of the cold war era to near neglect in more recent years. As a consequence, countries in Southeast Asia worry that the United States once again will become distracted by other problems and disengage from the region.

Sources of anxiety -- Engagement and estrangement -- Global terrorism's "second front" -- Missed opportunities -- The "pivot" and (Southeast) Asia -- Piecemeal progress -- The United States in Southeast Asia : prospect and retrospect -- Policy considerations and recommendations.