Our Unstable Neighbourhood

Book excerpt: "If Australia's primary strategic objective in South-East Asia is to build coalitions against China, it will be disappointed." ALLAN GYNGELL The fifteenth issue of Australian Foreign Affairs examines the challenges confronting South-East Asia as it finds itself at the epicentre of the rivalry between the United States and China. Our Unstable Neighbourhood looks at the fragile state of democracy and the growing threat of instability in the region, as well as the risks for Australia as it navigates ties with nations which have vastly differing interests and outlooks. Allan Gyngell reviews Australia's diplomacy in the region and puts a case for a new kind of statecraft. Sebastian Strangio explores the increasing influence of China in South-East Asia. Nicole Curato looks at the Marcos comeback in the Philippines and what it reveals about attitudes towards democracy in South-East Asian countries. Kishore Mahbubani explains how South-East Asia views China differently to Australia and advocates for Australia to change its course. Sheila Fitzpatrick examines the war in Ukraine and why the road to peace is not straightforward. Thom Woodroofe calls on Australia to bid to host the next major UN climate conference in 2025. PLUS Correspondence on AFA14: The Taiwan Choice from Lai I-Chung, John Lee, Derek McDougall and more. Australian Foreign Affairs is published three times a year and seeks to explore - and encourage - debate on Australia's place in the world and global outlook.