Committee of Supply 2023 debate, Day 2: Gerald Giam on ASEAN’s handling of Myanmar crisis
There are many benefits to ASEAN, but its flaws have also been “laid bare” on several occasions, most recently involving the crisis in Myanmar, said MP Gerald Giam. He asked how Singapore is working with ASEAN to overcome situations where consensus is hindered by a minority of member states and whether Singapore has asked ASEAN to adopt stronger mechanisms to enforce its own consensus decisions. Mr Giam also wanted to know if the ASEAN Summit has the authority to decide via vote to suspend Myanmar from participating in all ASEAN meetings and initiatives. He said this will send a strong signal to the country’s military rulers that violence against their own people is not compatible with ASEAN principles. Mr Giam spoke in Parliament on Monday (Feb 27).
There are many benefits to ASEAN, but its flaws have also been “laid bare” on several occasions, most recently involving the crisis in Myanmar, said MP Gerald Giam. He asked how Singapore is working with ASEAN to overcome situations where consensus is hindered by a minority of member states and whether Singapore has asked ASEAN to adopt stronger mechanisms to enforce its own consensus decisions. Mr Giam also wanted to know if the ASEAN Summit has the authority to decide via vote to suspend Myanmar from participating in all ASEAN meetings and initiatives. He said this will send a strong signal to the country’s military rulers that violence against their own people is not compatible with ASEAN principles. Mr Giam spoke in Parliament on Monday (Feb 27).
Popular Shows
