ASEAN Vision 2045: Strategic Insights for a Unified Future

On May 26, 2025, the ASEAN Community adopted the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 (ACV 2045) during the 46th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This forward-looking framework aims to guide the region through a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, marked by challenges such as increasing big-power rivalries and technological advancements, including the rise of artificial intelligence. H.E. Elizabeth P. Buensuceso, the Philippines’ Eminent Person to the High-Level Task Force (HLTF) on the Post-2025 ASEAN Community Vision, provided insights into the development of this significant document.

The ACV 2045 was formulated to address the lessons learned from the previous ASEAN Community Vision 2025 (ACV 2025), which was adopted a decade prior. While the previous vision set a solid foundation for a politically cohesive, economically integrated, and socially responsible ASEAN Community, it became evident that the goals did not fully align with the expectations of ordinary ASEAN citizens. In her remarks, Ambassador Buensuceso noted, "The ASEAN we see today is markedly different from the grouping in 2015. The region now perceives itself not only as a major regional player but also as an influential participant in global affairs."

A critical aspect of the ACV 2045 is its extended timeframe. The HLTF undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the megatrends impacting Southeast Asia, identifying sixteen key issues, including trade conflicts and demographic changes. The ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute’s State of Southeast Asia 2025 Survey highlighted concerns among regional elites regarding ASEAN's effectiveness in addressing long-standing challenges, such as the South China Sea disputes and the situation in Myanmar. "The HLTF was mindful of the expectations from the leaders and people of ASEAN," Buensuceso stated, emphasizing the importance of an inclusive approach in the formulation process, which involved consultations with marginalized groups.

At the heart of the ACV 2045 are its five accompanying strategic plans: the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Strategic Plan, the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan, the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Strategic Plan, and the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan. Each plan outlines specific goals and activities designed to achieve the overarching objectives of the ACV 2045. For instance, the AEC Strategic Plan aims to establish an integrated single market and production base, while the ASCC Strategic Plan focuses on promoting a people-centered community that fosters social cohesion and shared prosperity.

The implementation of the ACV 2045 will be pivotal during the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship in 2026. Buensuceso expressed hope that the Philippines will effectively cascade the vision to all stakeholders, ensuring that the general populace is engaged in the action lines outlined in the strategic plans. "The test of the pudding is in the eating," she remarked, indicating that the true impact of the vision will be realized through active participation from ASEAN citizens.

As ASEAN embarks on this new chapter with the ACV 2045, the emphasis on ASEAN Centrality remains a cornerstone of the community’s approach to regional and global cooperation. This principle seeks to ensure that ASEAN continues to play a vital role in shaping the regional discourse while adhering to norms of inclusivity and peaceful dispute resolution.

The ACV 2045 not only sets ambitious goals for the region but also highlights the importance of adaptability and periodic reviews to address emerging challenges. As the world navigates an increasingly complex landscape, the aspirations outlined in the ACV 2045 will be critical in guiding ASEAN towards a secure, peaceful, and prosperous future for all member states.