The Importance of the Shangri-La Dialogue Amid Rising Hard Power
Commentary: The value of Shangri-La Dialogue in a world increasingly shaped by hard power
Channel Newsasia
Image: Channel Newsasia
Context
The Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) is an annual security summit held in Singapore, bringing together defense officials and experts from various countries. It serves as a platform for discussing pressing security issues in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly amid rising tensions between major powers.
What The Author Says
This piece contends that the Shangri-La Dialogue plays a vital role in addressing Asian security concerns in a world increasingly dominated by hard power. By facilitating dialogue among defense officials and academics, the SLD helps establish essential norms and rules that empower smaller states to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes.
Key Arguments
Facts and Opinions in the article
📗 Facts
- The Shangri-La Dialogue is held annually in Singapore, gathering defense officials from around the world.
- In 2024, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed maritime security and nuclear disarmament at the SLD.
- A new high seas treaty on managing biological diversity under UNCLOS was concluded in 2023.
📕 Opinions
- The SLD is a timely platform for discussing Asian security amid rising tensions.
- Small states can leverage international norms to enhance their security and influence.
- Dialogue alone is insufficient; practical solutions are needed to address security challenges.
Counterpoints
Dialogue may not change the actions of major powers.
While the SLD facilitates discussions, it may not influence the strategic decisions of dominant nations that prioritize power over diplomacy.
Rules and norms can be easily disregarded.
In a world governed by might, smaller states may find that established norms are often ignored by larger powers when it suits their interests.
Focus on dialogue might neglect immediate security needs.
While dialogue is valuable, it could detract from urgent, practical measures needed to address pressing security threats in the region.
Bias Assessment
The author's perspective emphasizes the importance of dialogue but may underestimate the challenges posed by dominant powers.
Why This Matters
The SLD is timely as global affairs are increasingly characterized by power struggles, exemplified by recent conflicts and high-stakes negotiations between superpowers. This context underscores the need for dialogue to establish norms and rules governing international relations.
🤔 Think About
- •How effective can dialogue be in influencing the actions of powerful nations?
- •What are the risks of relying on international norms in a power-centric world?
- •Could a focus on dialogue lead to neglecting immediate security challenges?
- •How can smaller states balance their interests without being forced to choose sides?
Opens original article on Channel Newsasia
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How effective is the Shangri-La Dialogue in addressing security issues?
Connecting to poll...
