ASEAN Faces Internal Strife Amid Global Energy Crisis

ASEAN is grappling with internal conflicts and the global energy crisis intensified by the Iran war. In response, the bloc is moving towards finalizing an oil-sharing deal. Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, ongoing civil war in Myanmar, and maritime disputes complicate efforts to maintain regional unity and energy security.

ASEAN's efforts to tackle global energy issues, exacerbated by the Iran war, are hampered by internal tensions, including disputes between Thailand and Cambodia, and the civil conflict in Myanmar. These challenges were highlighted by Cambodian diplomat Kung Phoak before the ASEAN summit in the Philippines.

ASEAN's top priority is finalizing an oil-sharing agreement to bolster energy security amid the crisis. Meanwhile, regional conflicts persist; the truce between Thailand and Cambodia remains fragile due to unresolved border issues, and Myanmar's situation is tenuous following the 2021 coup.

The bloc is under pressure to resolve these conflicts and enhance unity, with maritime negotiations under UNCLOS and diplomatic interventions being key focal points as the region seeks stability and energy independence.