Myanmar faces a diplomatic deadlock with ASEAN leaders, as the military junta resists external involvement in its planned elections scheduled for December. Last week, foreign ministers from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines postponed a planned trip to Myanmar. The delegation was expected to discuss elections and other issues.
Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan confirmed the postponement until early October but did not explain the reasons. This decision raised questions about Myanmar’s willingness to cooperate. Reports suggest junta chief Min Aung Hlaing is reluctant to engage ASEAN. Support from China and India has reduced pressure to address regional concerns.
The visit was first announced in August, after the junta lifted a state of emergency. ASEAN expected Myanmar to follow commitments made in a 2021 peace plan.
Priority on peace, not election
Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar has endured civil conflict, with thousands killed, mass imprisonments, and large-scale displacement. Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains imprisoned amid worsening health. The junta claims it ended the state of emergency to organize elections, yet critics argue the polls are designed to extend military control.
Observers highlight ongoing violence, detentions, and the exclusion of opposition groups, which undermine prospects for free and fair elections. Humanitarian conditions further complicate the situation. Analysts believe ASEAN prioritizes peace over elections. The bloc emphasizes dialogue and engagement, while acknowledging challenges created by martial law in multiple conflict-affected townships.
Despite limited influence, ASEAN is urged to keep communication open with both junta and opposition. Promoting de-escalation and independent monitoring remains essential to credibility. Some analysts argue ASEAN should clarify expectations and adopt united positions. Restricting Myanmar’s participation in meetings could be a possible consequence for continued non-compliance.
Reference
Beltran, S. (2025, September 22). Asean’s failure to meet Myanmar junta over election shows its ‘limited leverage.’ South China Morning Post. https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3326361/aseans-failure-meet-myanmar-junta-over-election-shows-its-limited-leverage?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article