The 10 countries of Southeast Asia comprise the world’s fifth largest economy and third largest population. Most Southeast Asian countries have achieved levels of unprecedented economic growth in recent years as the conflict-ridden 20th century has transitioned to a mostly peaceful, stable 21st century. Yet, rapid economic expansion has come at a significant social and environmental costs. Looking forward, Southeast Asia is predicted to be one of the world’s most at-risk regions for disastrous effects of climate change. Today, Southeast Asia serves as a key zone of engagement for the United States and other external partners. Some suggest Southeast Asia is the premier arena for great power competition between the U.S. and China.
The Stimson Center’s Southeast Asia Program engages with key stakeholders in Southeast Asia, the United States, and other development partners to promote sustainable growth, peace, and security in the region. Our Mekong work focuses on data transparency and smarter planning of infrastructure development and a more equitable share of natural resources for stakeholders throughout the Mekong Basin. The Southeast Asia Forum addresses emerging issues through bridging the gap between policy development and academic research. Finally, the War Legacies Working Group convenes member organizations working on issues related to unexploded ordnance removal, mine clearing, and Agent Orange remediation and disability assistance for victims of the U.S. wars in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
This dialogue summary report highlights opportunities for collaboration through the Mekong – U.S. Partnership related to non-traditional security issues of trafficking and cyber-enabled crime
August 30, 2023
A technical report using Mekong Dam Monitor observations and MRC data to show how 20 dams are changing the hydrological flow of the 3S Basin and the Mekong River at large.
June 13, 2023
A discussion on how a small group of persistent and dedicated actors in both countries have led efforts to heal the legacies of war
April 24, 2023
More transparency needed from Mekong governments
April 3, 2023
Resources for students interested in the study of Southeast Asian politics, economics, history, language, and culture
March 27, 2023
This conference summary report highlights opportunities for collaboration through the Mekong-U.S. Partnership on nature-based solutions
March 8, 2023
How the Mekong River guarantees the security and livelihoods of tens of millions of people in mainland Southeast Asia and why a smarter engagement strategy from the US can keep the Mekong region thriving.
December 7, 2022
This conference summary report highlights opportunities for collaboration through the Mekong – U.S. Partnership on human resources and capacity building needs
October 27, 2022
