Thailand has emphasized the need for ASEAN, the regional bloc, to play a more active role in resolving the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. This call comes after a period of intense fighting near the Thailand-Myanmar border, which disrupted trade and prompted a temporary influx of refugees.
Myanmar finds itself embroiled in a civil conflict, pitting the military against a coalition of established ethnic minority armies and a resistance movement that emerged following the junta’s crackdown on dissent following the 2021 coup.
While ASEAN crafted a peace plan in 2021, endorsed by Myanmar’s military leaders, its implementation has been limited, causing divisions within the bloc and raising frustration among its prominent members.
“We would like to see a more proactive ASEAN,” stated Nikorndej Balankura, spokesperson for the Thai Foreign Ministry, underscoring the urgency for action. “We have discussed the situation with Laos, the current chair of ASEAN, and Myanmar.”
The recent capture of the strategic trading town of Myawaddy by Myanmar resistance fighters and ethnic minority rebels further underscored the severity of the situation. Although the rebels have since retreated in the face of a government counteroffensive, concerns remain heightened, particularly given the proximity to Thailand.
“The conflict in Myawaddy is of great concern to Thailand due to its close proximity,” added Nikorndej, stressing the need for ASEAN’s increased involvement in addressing the crisis.
In response to the escalating situation, Thailand has proposed an ASEAN meeting involving Indonesia, the previous chair, which had attempted engagement with the junta’s rivals, as well as Laos and Malaysia, the upcoming chair.
As per the 2021 Myanmar peace plan, the ASEAN chair appoints a special envoy responsible for advancing the peace process. However, the current chair, Laos, has been relatively quiet about its envoy’s activities.
Myanmar’s military, facing unprecedented challenges, has been reluctant to engage with its opponents, dismissing them as “terrorists.” As such, the need for ASEAN’s collective action and diplomacy in facilitating dialogue and resolution remains paramount.
