Collective Food Security under the Framework of the ASEAN Community: A Reflection from Indonesia’s Food Policy

Abstract

Since its inception in 1967, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been based upon the common interests of its member states and the principle of solidarity. These two cornerstones have played an important role in the efforts for development of this regional organization. Under the principle of solidarity, ASEAN configures a distinct intergovernmentalism subjected to collective decision-making which emphasizes common understanding, including on how it approaches security concerns. This article aims to discuss and analyze the prospect of the collective food security in ASEAN by taking into account the legal frameworks of food security in the ASEAN community and Indonesia. Specifically, this article reflects the development of ASEAN and the member states’ common problem of providing food for national consumption. ASEAN’s development shows that it has committed to food security. For instance, ASEAN signed the Agreement on the ASEAN Food Security Reserve. However, this institution has not paid enough significant attention to food security and the ASEAN integration pillars are often justified to exempt food security amongst its priorities. Therefore, this article clarifies that food security is an essential part of the pillars. By the inclusion of food security to such pillars and taking account of Indonesia’s experiences, there is an importance for ASEAN to re-consider food security. This consideration is not only to achieve part of its ultimate objectives to bring prosperity but also to ensure regional stability.