Southeast Asia : proposals and prospects for its neutralization, 1968-1974

Abstract

This Malaysian proverb has particular reference to its region of origin - Southeast Asia. The latter - the mousedeer - has for many decades been caught in an elephantine struggle between the Great Powers of the globe. Over the years these powers have changed, even the mousedeer has become nominally independent of them, but the results of the continuing conflict have remained basically the same - with all the heritage of bitterness and suffering that is the latter's inevitable reward. This proverb simplifies the issue, treating it on the level of the Great Powers' impact on the region. There is another level - the interactions of the mousedeer themselves - the ten states which are numbered in this region. As, however, it is proposed to examine the most recent neutralization proposal for Southeast Asia, and the prospects for its implementation, emphasis will be placed throughout this thesis on the level of the Great Power impact. This is due to the fact that the latter is considered to be more vital to the realization of the scheme, even if internal developments will play a central role in dictating its success thereafter. Hence, while three chapters deal with the elephant-mousedeer relations, and one with inter-elephantine situations, the internal workings of the mousedeer are related to two - one dealing with their 'dream1 and the other their 'quandary'. A further chapter glances at 'Interested Neighbours' who encircle the arena. Show more