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In this Explainer, find out...
What is foreign policy?
What are the fundamental principles of Singapore’s foreign policy?
How is ASEAN significant within Singapore’s foreign policy?
Introduction
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was founded on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand to promote economic and cultural exchange among its member countries. Initially created to reflect “the collective will of the nations of Southeast Asia”, ASEAN has since established cooperation in numerous areas like economic, social, cultural, technical and educational fields.
This year, ASEAN Day commemorates 57 years of cooperation among its 11 member states. As one of the five founding members, Singapore has since enshrined participation in the organisation as one of our key foreign policy principles. However, some might wonder: why the emphasis on ASEAN in Singapore’s international diplomacy? To answer this question, this Policy Explainer will first examine Singapore’s foreign policy as a whole, before analysing the significance of ASEAN within Singapore's foreign policy.
What is Foreign Policy?
Foreign policy is a framework that guides a country’s interactions and relations with other nations or international organisations. How a country conducts itself on the global stage ultimately reflects its national interests, values and concerns in relation to ongoing geopolitical developments abroad. There are various aspects to a country’s foreign policy:
International Diplomacy
Diplomacy is one of the key pillars of a state’s foreign policy. It involves advocating for one’s national interests, resolving potential disagreements and explaining one’s policy stance to foreign counterparts. It serves as a tool for influencing decisions and shaping the behaviours of foreign parties through constructive dialogue, both in times of peace and conflict. Diplomacy can come in many forms, including but not limited to:
Negotiations and conflict resolution: Engaging foreign counterparts to reach mutually beneficial agreements and addressing potential disputes through open and constructive dialogue;
Consultations: Forward-looking discussions between countries on shared challenges like climate change and cybersecurity;
Conferences and dialogues: Platforms for interactions between state representatives on a multilateral scale; and
Day-to-day diplomacy: Daily interactions between countries carried out by embassies, including discussions between diplomats and relationship-building activities such as cultural exchanges.
Defence and Security
Having a strong defence is vital for any country. It ensures the safety of its population, safeguards its way of life, and protects its sovereignty and territorial integrity. With the threat of terrorism and rising geopolitical tensions, countries must work together to pool resources, manpower and technological capabilities. This would further enhance border and regional security as a key component of their foreign policy strategy. The main areas of defence cooperation can include:
Strengthening bilateral defence relations: Establishing formal agreements to cooperate in areas such as joint military exercises, research and development, arms procurement and the exchange of military intelligence;
Building an open and inclusive regional security framework: Fostering open dialogue to address and exchange perspectives on shared security challenges while providing opportunities for countries to deescalate potential military tensions; and
Contributing to international security efforts: Collaboration in joint operations such as counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
Economic Cooperation
The role of foreign policy in increasing a country’s trade volumes and economic power grew in the 20th century. In an increasingly globalised world, many states have geared their foreign policies towards plugging themselves into the global production network, promoting multilateral trade, and attracting foreign direct investments. According to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), world trade values today have ballooned by almost 400 times from 1950 levels and world trade volume has expanded 4 per cent on average since 1995. In future, policymakers will likely continue to focus on fostering economic development and cooperation as part of their foreign policy agendas.
Cultural Interactions
Cultural diplomacy has been a longstanding practice among states, serving as a vital platform for bilateral relationship building. Cultural exchanges, through music, art, literature and language, enable people from different nations to learn more about each others’ history and culture. These initiatives hence pave the way for further cooperation and dialogue.
Singapore's Foreign Policy
In Singapore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is responsible for establishing and managing the country’s diplomatic relations abroad. Since its independence, Singapore has forged strong and stable relationships with more than 150 countries across the world, especially with neighbouring countries in ASEAN.
Over the years, Singapore has also pursued proactive diplomacy by participating in various key multilateral forums, such as having our Ambassador-at-Large Tommy Koh preside over the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and initiating international dialogues such as the Forum of Small States (FOSS). Singapore’s contributions in these diplomatic arenas have not only strengthened global and regional cooperation but also ensured its relevance in today’s volatile and uncertain world.
Fundamental Principles of Singapore’s Foreign Policy
Below are the fundamental principles of Singapore’s foreign policy as outlined on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website:
“As a small state, Singapore has no illusions about the state of our region or the world;
Singapore must always maintain a credible and deterrent military defence as the fundamental underpinning for an effective foreign policy;
Singapore must promote and work for good relations with our immediate neighbours in all spheres;
Singapore stands by its friends who have stood with it in times of need;
Singapore is fully committed to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN);
Singapore will work to maintain a secure and peaceful environment in and around Southeast Asia, especially in the Asia Pacific region;
Singapore will continue to work for the maintenance of a free and open multilateral trading system;
Singapore is ready to trade with any state for mutual benefit and maintain an open market economy; and
Singapore will support and be active in international organisations such as the United Nations (UN).”
How has Singapore’s Foreign Policy Evolved?
While Singapore’s fundamental foreign policy principles have always been relevant, the country’s approach has evolved since its independence to address changing national priorities and emerging challenges.
Beyond Post-Independence Survival Concerns
Singapore’s foreign policy concerns during the early nation-building years were compounded by both internal unrest and external threats. A newly independent state with limited natural resources and no rural hinterland, Singapore’s primary concern was survival. This involved strengthening its economy and addressing pressing social issues such as housing, employment and education.
Additionally, external security challenges, which arose from tensions with neighbouring states, further exacerbated these issues. Given these circumstances, Singapore focused on gaining recognition as an independent and sovereign state. However, as Singapore progressed from a third-world to a first-world country, its foreign policy has since evolved to tackle broader objectives and more ambitious goals.
Stronger Advocate of Regional Peace and Stability
Singapore has increasingly played a role in safeguarding and contributing to regional peace and stability. As a small nation-state surrounded by larger neighbouring countries, Singapore recognises the importance of upholding international law for survival. By adhering to these rules and norms, Singapore ensures that her interests are safeguarded, preventing domination by more powerful states.
Moreover, by strongly advocating for regional peace and stability, the country creates a favourable environment for long-term development. In 1997, Singapore became the seventh country to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on UN Standby Arrangements. This commitment includes allocating manpower and resources to support UN peacekeeping missions around the world.
Finally, Singapore has actively promoted regional peace by facilitating multilateral dialogues, such as the annual Shangri-La Dialogue, and hosting significant bilateral meetings, including the Trump-Kim Summit in 2018 and the Ma-Xi Meeting in 2015.
Greater Focus on Economic Growth
Given Singapore’s heavy reliance on trade, evidenced by a trade-to-GDP ratio of 326 per cent in 2018, developing economic ties through diplomacy has become a key pillar of Singapore’s foreign policy. Singapore works closely with its ASEAN partners to enhance trade relations, actively promoting free trade in intergovernmental forums such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and collaborating with international organisations such as the WTO in trade dispute settlements.
The Significance of ASEAN
Singapore’s foreign policy is deeply connected with ASEAN’s objectives of regional cooperation, economic integration and peace. As one of the five founding members of ASEAN alongside Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand, Singapore has played a crucial role in shaping ASEAN’s early development. Through diplomatic initiatives, economic contributions, and a commitment to ASEAN’s core principles, Singapore has helped lay the groundwork for the stability, prosperity, and unity that the region enjoys today — which is key for our little red dot to prosper. It is apt to now unpack the key areas anchoring Singapore’s commitment to ASEAN.
Regional Security and Stability
Singapore’s commitment to regional security and stability is a cornerstone of its foreign policy. This closely aligns with ASEAN’s overarching goal of maintaining peace and security in Southeast Asia.
The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) is one of the methods implemented to boost regional security and stability. The ARF was established in 1994 and acts as a platform for dialogue on political and security issues. It includes ASEAN members and key players like the United States and Russia. By focusing on preventive diplomacy and conflict resolution, ASEAN has contributed to creating a stable and cooperative environment in Southeast Asia, which is vital for the region’s stability.
For instance, the ARF regularly includes the issue of the Korean Peninsula in its agenda. While the ARF has not resolved the Korean Peninsula’s issues, it has contributed to maintaining open lines of communication, which is vital for conflict prevention. Additionally, through the ARF, Singapore can maintain healthy relations with its economic partners and advance its strategic interests.
Economic Integration
ASEAN’s desire to promote regional economic integration is a key factor that aligns with Singapore’s economic growth and development. As a highly trade-dependent nation with limited natural resources, Singapore’s economic success greatly hinges on its ability to integrate with larger markets.
One example would be the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) which aims to establish a single market and production base amongst ASEAN members. AEC aids in removing barriers to trade, investment, and labour flows — all of which Singapore benefits from. For Singapore, the AEC represents an opportunity to expand its economic footprint within Southeast Asia while also driving regional economic integration.
Cultural Exchanges
Often, achieving economic and security interests cannot be done through direct or forceful methods. Instead, it calls for careful, delicate actions, such as cultural and interpersonal exchanges to build relationships and understanding. Within ASEAN, Singapore views these exchanges as essential for bridging the diverse ethnic, linguistic, and religious landscapes, thereby strengthening bonds among member states.
The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA), launched in 2018, serves as a means for cultural exchange. It is a digital platform that showcases cultural artefacts from ASEAN member states, allowing people across the region and beyond to access and appreciate ASEAN’s rich cultural heritage.
Singapore’s participation in ACHDA aligns with its foreign policy emphasis on education and social development, fostering a well-informed and culturally aware ASEAN community. Furthermore, this initiative contributes to the region’s collective identity and shared heritage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Singapore’s foreign policy is a carefully crafted framework that has evolved over the years to address both traditional and emerging challenges. However, as a small, resource-scarce “little red dot”, we are constantly vulnerable to external pressures and the influence of larger powers. Hence, we must maintain and uphold our foreign policy, not just within ASEAN, but also on the global stage. To remain relevant in an ever-changing regional and global environment, Singapore must prepare to adapt and update its strategies, ensuring that our diplomatic efforts continue to safeguard our sovereignty and prosperity.
ASEAN, a cornerstone of Singapore’s foreign policy, exemplifies the importance of regional cooperation, economic integration, and cultural exchanges in achieving these goals. Through its active participation in ASEAN, Singapore not only advances its national interests but also contributes to the collective prosperity and stability of the Southeast Asian region. As we continue to engage with the global community, the enduring principles of Singapore’s foreign policy will remain vital in ensuring our nation’s security, growth, and international standing.
This Policy Explainer was written by members of MAJU. MAJU is an independent, youth-led organisation that focuses on engaging Singaporean youths in a long-term research process to guide them in jointly formulating policy ideas of their own.
By sharing our unique youth perspectives, MAJU hopes to contribute to the policymaking discourse and future of Singapore.
The citations to our Policy Explainers can be found in the PDF appended to this webpage.
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