About Phar
Dr. Phar Kim Beng, a Professor of ASEAN Studies at the International Islamic University of Malaysia, is a distinguished scholar in ASEAN studies and international relations, specializing in Southeast Asian security, regionalism, and diplomacy. He is concurrently a Senior Research Fellow at the Asia Europe Institute (AEI) in University of Malaya where he teaches the MA course on “ASEAN Regionalism.”
His book “ASEAN Peace Axioms Redefined” has been completed and is in the final stages of publication. His other book on “ASEAN and OSCE Re-Examined: The Case for Confidence Building” is being reviewed for publication within the year too.
His work critically examines ASEAN’s institutional development, its diplomatic norms, and the broader Indo-Pacific security landscape.
Academic Background and Expertise
Dr. Phar’s scholarship is widely recognized for its in-depth analysis of ASEAN’s institutional challenges and strategic dilemmas.
His work has explored ASEAN’s balancing act between great powers, the evolution of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and the tensions between the principle of non-interference and the need for security cooperation. He has also critically examined ASEAN’s economic and political dependence on external actors, particularly the United States and China, and its implications for regional autonomy.
Comparative Analysis of the OSCE and ASEAN
While primarily focused on ASEAN, Dr. Phar has also engaged in comparative studies on regional security frameworks, including NATO, the OSCE, and the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP).
His writings on the OSCE emphasize its effectiveness in confidence-building measures (CBMs) and post-Cold War security governance.
He has compared the OSCE’s institutional strengths with ASEAN’s more flexible, consensus-based approach, highlighting why ASEAN has struggled to replicate the OSCE’s success in areas such as arms control, mediation, and preventive diplomacy.
Policy Impact and Thought Leadership
Beyond academia, Dr. Phar has been actively involved in policy discussions, advising think tanks and governments on ASEAN’s evolving role in global affairs. His work continues to shape debates on regionalism, security cooperation, and ASEAN’s engagement with global powers.
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