The geopolitics of multipolarity : how to counter Europe's waning relevance in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is becoming more multipolar, with countries reevaluating their alliances and embracing non-alignment. Europe, however, risks being sidelined due to fragmented engagement and an erratic regional presence. Europe's influence is undermined by a lack of strategic cohesion and inconsistent follow-through. The EU's Indo-Pacific Strategy sits alongside numerous national initiatives, and concerns about Europe's long-term commitment to the region dilute its overall impact. To regain relevance, Europe must adopt a more coherent and sustained approach. This means prioritising long-term commitments, enhancing public diplomacy, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and leveraging collective European influence more effectively.