Organizações regionais e mediação de conflitos: um estudo de caso sobre a conduta da ASEAN diante da guerra civil em Mianmar (2021-2024)

Abstract

The outbreak of the civil war in Myanmar in 2021 highlighted significant shortcomings within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), particularly regarding the organization's role in addressing conflicts in Southeast Asia. This research aims to investigate the factors that prevented ASEAN from playing a relevant role in such conflicts. Structured into three chapters, the analysis combines a theoretical foundation on regional organizations and international mediation, a historical review of Myanmar’s political trajectory, and, finally, an investigation into ASEAN’s institutional evolution and its actions in the region. Based on a case study of the relationship between Myanmar and ASEAN, supported by bibliographic review and document analysis, this study identified three main reasons for ASEAN’s limited effectiveness: the non-interference clause enshrined in its charter, deep internal divisions among its member states, and the absence of binding institutional mechanisms within the organization. The research concludes that, although ASEAN has undertaken formal initiatives at certain points, its normative and decision-making structure undermines its ability to respond to severe internal crises, revealing the need for significant structural reforms for the organization to act more assertively in promoting peace and regional stability.