Abstract
Examines the “hedging” behavior of some members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) resulting from the need to optimize economic benefits & minimize security risks in an environment of uncertainty driven by China’s emergence as an economic & military power. ASEAN members believe that increasing the interdependence of Chinese & ASEAN economies will boost China’s concern with peace & stability in the region. It is noted that some ASEAN countries are helping the US retain a military presence in the region as a way to ensure security. Attention is given to China’s “counter-hedging” strategies; disputes over South China Sea territories; ASEAN’s view of China-Taiwan relations; & differing positions on US & Japanese presence in Southeast Asia. Beijing has had some success in showing Southeast Asians that there is much to gain & nothing to hedge against by living next to China. However, it is suggested that any efforts of ASEAN countries to “bandwagon” with China will be constrained by current US & future Japanese & Indian roles in the region.
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