Building Peace And Prosperity Through Elite Networks In ASEAN And Beyond.pdf

1. This report explores how elite networks among ASEAN countries can contribute to peace and prosperity in the region, particularly in the context of the ongoing power shift from the West to the East and the rise of China.

2. The research has been funded through various sources, including a Visiting Senior Fellowship at the China programme, Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies, and the Marianne and Marcus Wallenberg Foundation.

3. The author defines elite networks as networks of individuals linked together by social relationships, without formal structures, and institutionalized through deeply embedded patterns of social practices and norms.

4. Elite networks can be found in various spheres, including politics, military, scholarly, and economic spheres, and play a central part in economic and government level exchanges.

5. The networks exist within formal institutions, such as ASEAN, ASEAN Plus Three, and the ASEAN Regional Forum, and offer opportunities to create and deepen networks, build trust, and establish long-term relationships between individuals from different participating states.

6. The report analyzes the impact of elite networks on peace and prosperity, conflict management, and peacebuilding across the ASEAN and beyond, and draws conclusions and makes recommendations.

7. The author thanks Markus Göransson for his comments and acknowledges the distinction between formalized structures and actual networks, noting that interpersonal networks are voluntary and may not be included in formal meetings.

8. The report highlights the importance of elite networks in promoting functional cooperation, where interpersonal chemistry and understanding of each other's views, needs, and underlying interests are crucial for success.

9. The author emphasizes the need to ensure both formal and informal elite interactions among ASEAN members and with the broader Asia-Pacific region, particularly in the face of new challenges such as the Sino-US trade war and the ongoing pandemic.

10. The report concludes that elite networks can be a valuable tool for promoting peace and prosperity in the region, and recommends further research and exploration of their potential.