Donald K Emmerson: ASEAN Centrality and the Way Forward

When talking about Indonesian politics and foreign policy from the perspective of researchers outside the region, Prof. Donald K. Emmerson’s name is always one of the tops of mind. Most recently, his edited book, “The Deer and the Dragon: Southeast Asia and China in the 21st Century,” explores how Indonesia and other ASEAN states are dealing with the opportunities and tensions of living next to a rising China. We will discuss his views about Indonesia’s journey toward its Endgame in the context of its history, politics, and position in the now intense rivalry between Washington and Beijing.

Professor Donald K. Emmerson is the head of the Southeast Asia Program in the Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center at Stanford University.