Indo-Pacific Analysis Brief Vol 53
ASEAN’s many
challenges in Myanmar
April 2025
By Dr Pia Dannhauer
The 2021 coup in Myanmar has emerged as a critical test for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and its role in regional peace and stability. Four years on, Myanmar is embroiled in an intractable civil war and faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with little hope for a swift resolution. ASEAN’s institutional framework is often cited as the main obstacle to compelling Myanmar’s military to comply with regional decisions. Yet Myanmar’s growing fragmentation and China’s prominent influence in the country have also limited ASEAN’s options to respond to the crisis.
Key Messages
↗ The 2021 coup in Myanmar has emerged as a critical test for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and its role in regional peace and stability.
↗ Four years on, Myanmar is embroiled in an intractable civil war and faces severe humanitarian crisis, with little hope for a swift resolution.
↗ ASEAN’s institutional framework is often cited as the main obstacle to compelling Myanmar’s military to comply with regional decisions.
↗ Yet Myanmar’s growing fragmentation and China’s prominent influence in the country have also limited ASEAN’s options to respond to the crisis.
Related insights
Indo-Pacific Analysis Briefs
The Indo-Pacific Analysis Briefs deliver concise, timely insights on critical regional developments. Drawing on perspectives from leading analysts in Asia, Australia and the United States, this series examines emerging issues shaping national and Indo-Pacific policy.