Why ASEAN’s partnership model matters for global cooperation

DAVOS – Last year was challenging for ASEAN. Its leaders struggled to find viable solutions to addressing the on-going conflict in Myanmar, while border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand were a jarring reminder of long-standing territorial disputes and cultural tensions that historically beset the region.

And yet, even in challenging times, the bloc hasn’t faltered in its overriding purpose. During 2025, it recorded two milestones – its expansion to 11 members and the “substantive agreement” of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) – both partnership models that merit exploration.

Timor Leste’s accession to ASEAN in October 2025…