Asia-Pacific Regional Security Assessment 2023: Key developments and trends

The Asia-Pacific Regional Security Assessment is a publication by the International Institute for Strategic Studies that examines key regional security issues relevant to the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue. It covers topics such as the war in Ukraine, US-China relations, naval and maritime capabilities, China's Belt and Road Initiative, Japanese security and defence policy, and the conflict in Myanmar. The assessment is authored by leading regional analysts and academics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Asia-Pacific Regional Security Assessment (APRSA) is a comprehensive examination of critical regional security concerns that are central to the policy-oriented discussions held at the prestigious IISS Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's premier defense summit organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Since its inception in February 2022, the ongoing war in Ukraine has served as a grim backdrop for discussions on international security. While the war has had a profound impact on various aspects of security and defense in the Asia-Pacific region, it is important to recognize that the region possesses its own unique dynamics and has witnessed significant security-related developments since the invasion. Among these, China's ever-growing power and increasingly assertive posture continue to be the primary long-term challenges for the region.

This tenth edition of the APRSA, authored by esteemed experts from the International Institute for Strategic Studies, comprises an introduction and six chapters. Each chapter delves into important dimensions of the regional security environment, supported by comprehensive maps, graphs, charts, and tables. The topics covered in this edition include:

The War in Ukraine and the Asia-Pacific Balance of Power: This chapter explores the impact of the war in Ukraine on the Asia-Pacific balance of power, examining the shifting dynamics and challenges in the region. It analyzes the implications of the conflict for regional security, including the potential for further escalation, the role of regional powers, and the potential for regional cooperation.

Strained US-China Relations and the Growing Threat to Taiwan: This chapter examines the increasingly tense relations between the United States and China, particularly in light of the growing threat to Taiwan. It analyzes the geopolitical implications of the conflict, including the potential for military intervention, the role of regional powers, and the potential for diplomatic resolution.

Asia-Pacific Naval and Maritime Capabilities: This chapter assesses the naval and maritime capabilities of countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including their naval fleets, submarine capabilities, and port infrastructure. It examines the challenges and opportunities posed by the increasing competition for maritime resources and the growing importance of the oceans in regional security.

China's Belt and Road Initiative: This chapter explores China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global infrastructure development project that has significant implications for the Asia-Pacific region. It examines the economic, political, and security aspects of the BRI, including its potential benefits and risks, the impact on regional stability, and the response of other countries to the initiative.

Japanese Security and Defense Policy: This chapter examines Japan's security and defense policy, including its efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities, its relations with China and the United States, and its role in regional security. It analyzes the challenges and opportunities posed by Japan's changing geopolitical environment, including the rise of China and the North Korean threat.

Conflict in Myanmar and the International Response: This chapter examines the ongoing conflict in Myanmar and the international response to it. It analyzes the political, humanitarian, and security challenges posed by the conflict, including the role of regional powers, the humanitarian crisis, and the potential for military intervention.

The authors of the APRSA include leading regional analysts and academics who are at the forefront of research and analysis in the field of security. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the publication, providing valuable insights into the complex and evolving security landscape of the Asia-Pacific region.

In conclusion, the Asia-Pacific Regional Security Assessment is a vital resource for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the security dynamics of the Asia-Pacific region. The ongoing war in Ukraine has provided a stark reminder of the importance of regional cooperation and the need to address the growing challenges posed by China's assertive posture. The APRSA offers a comprehensive analysis of these issues, supported by robust data and expert insights, and serves as a valuable tool for navigating the complex and interconnected security landscape of the Asia-Pacific.

Weight: 680g
Dimension: 297 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032594446