Choosing Sides? Souteast Asia amidst U.S.–China Rivalry

In an age of great power competition and global turmoil, the nations of Southeast Asia find themselves in precarious and uncertain times. As geopolitical and economic forces shape the region’s future, balancing domestic priorities with foreign relations has never been more critical. Traditionally skilled at maintaining a delicate equilibrium between Beijing and Washington, Southeast Asian states now face intensifying pressure to choose sides—a challenge made even more complex by the return of a Trump administration likely to impose stricter trade policies, expand military commitments in the Indo-Pacific, and reinforce containment strategies toward China.

Amidst volatility and shifting alliances, how can Southeast Asia navigate the challenges of an evolving Indo-Pacific construct? Will the region continue to assert its strategic autonomy, or will the increasing friction between the U.S. and China force nations into definitive alignments? What are the broader implications for regional stability, including in the South China Sea and Taiwan?

To explore these pressing questions, the Danube Institute is honored to host Stephen Nagy, PhD (Professor, International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan) for a keynote lecture based on his edited volume, Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific Construct. This book offers unique perspectives on a dynamic region—one that continues to dominate international discourse—highlighting both the threats and opportunities facing Southeast Asia in this era of transformation.

Following the lecture, Dr. Nagy will engage in a discussion with MAriann Őry, providing deeper insights into the geopolitical and economic forces shaping Southeast Asia. Their conversation will shed light on whether the region can continue to balance competing global powers or if the escalating rivalry between the U.S. and China will force a dramatic geopolitical realignment.

Featured participant:

• Stephen Nagy, Professor at International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan 

Moderator:

• Őry Mariann, Editor-in-chief of Eurasia

We reserve the right to make changes to the organisation of events. Participation in the event is free of charge, but requires pre-registration by clicking on the button below.