[OPINION] Expanding armies, shrinking peace: Militarization in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is witnessing a troubling trend of military expansion and increased securitization, contributing to a regional arms race that poses grave threats to peace.

Militarization and Humanitarian Crises

Countries like Myanmar, the Philippines, and Indonesia are facing cycles of violence fueled by military operations, often at the expense of civilian lives.

These military-led approaches may temporarily contain dissent but likely exacerbate human suffering.

Su Mon, Regional Expert

• Over 90% of Myanmar's population exposed to conflict.
• 3.5 million people displaced in Myanmar due to ongoing violence.
• Philippines' New People's Army has intensified confrontations since 2024.

In Myanmar, the military's response to dissent has included escalated airstrikes and conscription, worsening the humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that one in three citizens now require humanitarian assistance.

The Philippines has not fared better. Despite claims of peace, violence persists, particularly involving the New People’s Army, leading to hundreds of casualties.

Indonesia's approach to conflict in Papua mirrors these issues, where military presence has led to increased violence rather than resolution.

The international community's inaction, coupled with support from countries like China and Russia, further complicates the quest for peace in Myanmar.

What is urgently needed are strategies emphasizing dialogue and conflict resolution rather than military escalation.

The successful peace processes in Aceh and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region highlight that enduring peace requires sustained efforts beyond military might.