Hoang Do, Research Official at the East Sea Institute, Vietnam, and CSC 22-1 DKI APCSS alumnus, has released a Security Nexus perspective paper titled “Popular MDA Initiatives and Implications for ASEAN.” This paper examines the impact of increasing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) programs on ASEAN countries.

The paper highlights the dual nature of MDA initiatives: while offering ASEAN an enhanced ability to combat maritime crimes and address “gray zone” challenges, they also raise concerns regarding national security, sovereignty, and technical compatibility.

Hoang Do suggests a need for a strategic MDA approach within ASEAN, focusing on transparency, inclusivity, and long-term data-analysis capabilities. This approach aims to align MDA efforts more closely with the region’s unique needs and sovereignty concerns.

The paper is for those interested in the intersection of maritime security and regional politics in ASEAN.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the DKI APCSS or the United States Government.