For a More Effective and Competitive ASEAN Dispute Settlement Mechanism

Abstract

This paper aims to answer the question why until now there is no single case every being brought to ASEAN dispute settlement system, from different angles. First, it analyzes whether there are lacking in the rules and procedures of the ASEAN Dispute Settlement System. Second, explores if the problem is in the dispute settlement system infrastructures. Third, examines whether ASEAN culture is the reason behind the zero dispute. Fourth, analyzes is there any financial constraint underlying the untested dispute settlement mechanism. Fifth, explores the possibility of Members not resorting to ASEAN DSM is because the lack of legal certainty or case precedence. Sixth, whether the lack of expertise or experts in ASEAN laws or ASEAN Dispute Settlement might be one of the reasons. Seventh, whether the very short and ambitious timeframe makes Members hesitant to utilize this mechanism. Eight, the low utilization is in fact happens everywhere in other RTAs/FTAs and not just ASEAN.

Keywords: ASEAN, Dispute Settlement