Phar, Kim Beng and Hamzah, Luthfy (2025) Breaking up is hard to do: Germany, NATO, and ASEAN’s diplomatic lessons. Breaking up is hard to do: Germany, NATO, and ASEAN’s diplomatic lessons, NA (NA). p. 1.
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Abstract
This article examines the evolving strain in transatlantic relations, focusing on Germany’s reassessment of its long-standing dependence on the United States within the NATO framework, and draws lessons for ASEAN’s diplomatic posture in an increasingly multipolar world. It argues that shifting U.S. strategic priorities—marked by transactionalism and conditional security commitments—have exposed Europe’s structural reliance on American military support, even as calls for greater autonomy intensify. Recent security incidents, including Russian incursions testing NATO’s readiness, underscore the gap between Europe’s aspirations for independence and its operational dependence on U.S. coordination. The article positions Germany as a bellwether for Europe’s broader strategic recalibration, highlighting its efforts to navigate uncertainty while maintaining deterrence and alliance cohesion. This transatlantic adjustment is presented as a cautionary parallel for ASEAN, which faces its own balancing act amid U.S.–China rivalry. Both regions are urged to avoid “false nostalgia” for past security guarantees and instead cultivate pragmatic autonomy without severing essential partnerships. Ultimately, the article concludes that effective diplomacy in the contemporary era requires a delicate equilibrium between independence and interdependence. For ASEAN, Europe’s experience illustrates the risks of overreliance on external powers and reinforces the necessity of collective strategic agency to remain resilient in a contested global order.
| Item Type: | Article (Electronic Media) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Readiness; NATO; ASEAN; U.S.-China Rivalry |
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JZ International relations |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Political Science Office of the Rector |
| Depositing User: | Mr Muhammad Syameer Luthfy Bin Hamzah |
| Date Deposited: | 07 May 2026 16:54 |
| Last Modified: | 07 May 2026 16:54 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-05-Q3237 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/128833 |
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