The EU and decreasing regional stability in East and South-East Asia

This NOREF policy brief outlines how the European Union (EU) has been responding to deteriorating regional stability in East and South-East Asia, and which considerations are relevant for further steps by the EU. For the time being the EU seems reluctant to become seriously involved in regional security in the region. But while keeping a low profile in the security sphere has enabled Europe to focus on its economic interests in Asia, it is doubtful whether this approach can be sustained. It is essential that European countries - regardless of whether or not they are EU members - support the EU's capacity to develop into a visible and vocal actor regarding Asian security issues.