Peace in Southeast Asia and Beyond

International solidarity and the pursuit of peace have played a crucial role in Vietnam’s path towards national liberation. Yet, globally, the recent years have witnessed a proliferation of violent conflicts. Dialogue and cooperation are giving way to armed confrontation, increased military spending and territorial disputes such as in the South China Sea. In light of these developments, Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung (RLS) has been working together with the Vietnam Peace and Development Foundation (VPDF). Over the past decade, we have implemented several projects to advocate for peace, strengthen international peace movements and provide insights based on Vietnam’s historical experience.

From 2016 to 2018, VPDF hosted a workshop series on ‘Peace and Security in Asia and Europe’. More than one hundred peace scholars from Europa and Asia, activists, NGOs and representatives of relevant ministries were invited. The workshops enabled them to discuss ongoing conflicts and initiatives, expand their networks and coordinate their efforts. The 2018 workshop took place in Vietnam’s Quang Tri province, a central battleground during the American War. The participants were invited to join a field trip into the historic Demilitarized Zone which marked the border between the country’s north and south. In 2023, VPDF further deepened the relationships with its European partners by sending a delegation to Berlin and Brussels. Meetings with progressive NGOs, parliamentarians and local Vietnamese communities allowed VPDF to share their experiences, gain valuable insights and discuss international relations.

VPDF also supports cooperation within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). As major powers compete for influence in Southeast Asia, ASEAN has become a pivotal platform for maintaining peace. In 2024, VDPF will organize an international workshop in Hanoi with experts from across Southeast Asia to analyze ASEAN’s current challenges, identify opportunities and formulate policy recommendations. The event will benefit from VPDF’s experience at the 2023 ASEAN People’s Forum in Jakarta, a conference of activists and civil society organizations focused on human rights, peace and environmental protection. VPDF led the Vietnamese delegation and played a key role in drafting the forum’s declaration and demands to be presented to Southeast Asian governments.

To learn more about Vietnam’s balanced approach to foreign policy, check out our article on ‘bamboo diplomacy’ written by Stefan Mentschel, Director of RLS Hanoi.