Book Review. International Relations in Southeast Asia: The struggle for autonomy, 3rd Edition. By Donald E. Weatherbee, 2014. 378 pp. Price: $144 (Paperback) and $57 (eBook).

Abstract

International Relations in Southeast Asia: the struggle for autonomy, by Donald E. Weatherbee, is an intriguing book, offering an original approach to the study of IR in the region, and propounding key insights regarding the qualities of regional integration, which result in a compelling argument. The book is recommended reading for diverse audiences, ranging from students of international relations, diplomats within the Southeast Asia region as well as from outside the region, policy makers, and civil servants working across regional international boundaries as part of the integration processes of ASEAN. Following an introductory assessment in support of importance of this book, this review will provide a brief summation of the content of the text before turning to a discussion of the main argument and the manner in which the author substantiates it. This is then followed by a discussion of potential critiques of the text, before concluding by mentioning why the book is of significance to Cambodian policymakers and the broader public.