Geopolitics of the Middle East and ASEAN in Contemporary Political Dynamics

Abstract

            The Middle East, stretching from Libya in the west to Iran in the east and from Turkey in the north to Yemen in the south, and Southeast Asia is a vast macro-region encompassing 11 continental and island territories: Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia and part of Bangladesh. has long been the focus of influential political figures throughout history. Its strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes has elevated its status as one of the most significant regions in the world. In the last century, the discovery of oil in the region and its subsequent dominance as a global energy source has further increased the region's importance. This article analyzes key geopolitical aspects and trends that shed light on the Geopolitics of the Middle East and ASEAN countries in contemporary political dynamics.

          The objective of this study is to analyze the role of the Middle East and Southeast Asian countries in global geopolitics and how they cope with challenges while capitalizing on opportunities in the international political dynamics in the era of globalization. As the world order undergoes significant changes, the countries of the Middle East and Southeast Asia face complex challenges such as geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts, major power interventions, and changing strategic alliances. However, they also have opportunities to strengthen their diplomatic and economic positions through international cooperation, investment, and active roles in multilateral organizations. Using a qualitative analytical approach, this study examines the foreign policies, diplomatic strategies, and international relations dynamics of these countries, including their role in organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and their relations with major powers such as the United States, China, and Russia. The study uses a qualitative analytical approach with a literature review method. The data is obtained from secondary materials such as academic journals, books, policy reports and articles related to the geopolitical issues of the countries in the region. The results show that despite significant challenges, these countries have the potential to act as critical players in global geopolitics if they can optimize the available opportunities such as strengthening economic cooperation and diplomacy based on common interests.