INDO-PACIFIC ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR PROSPERITY (IPEF) AND ASEAN CENTRALITY: ASEAN’S ROLE IN ENHANCING THE ACHIEVEMENT OF POLITICAL ECONOMIC COOPERATION

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plays a strategic role as a regional organization in Southeast Asia in maintaining stability within the Indo-Pacific region. Through the adoption of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), ASEAN aims to uphold the principles of centrality, inclusivity, and complementarity. However, the participation of several ASEAN member states in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) introduces new dynamics regarding ASEAN’s centrality, particularly amidst the geopolitical rivalry between the Unites States (US) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). This study analyzes ASEAN’s role in strengthening its centrality amidst member states’ participation in IPEF and examines how ASEAN, as an actor in international relations, maintains regional norms and rules to achieve common goals, specifically in the political economic fields and broader economic cooperation within IPEF. The analysis utilizes a constructivist perspective within the study of international political economy, viewing international actors not only as external forces influencing the economic system but also as political authorities that maintain market freedom and pursue interests. Employing qualitative methods, this study utilizes a comprehensive literature review encompassing academic journals, policy papers, and official ASEAN documents to establish a robust theoretical foundation. Furthermore, online media analysis, including news articles and reports from reputable international and regional news outlets, provides contemporary context and real-world examples. In addition to these sources, semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants, including policymakers and expertise in ASEAN and Indo-Pacific affairs, to gather in-depth perspectives and insights. Data validation is achieved through triangulation, cross-referencing information from multiple sources, including literature, media analysis, and interview transcripts, to ensure accuracy and reliability of the findings. Findings suggest that several aspects need to be addressed by ASEAN to strengthen the principle of centrality amidst the participation of member states in IPEF and enhance broader political economic cooperation.