The Future of Asia and the International Order through the Lens of the Indo-Pacific System

Abstract

This paper examines how the ongoing structural rivalry between the United States and China might influence both international and regional orders from the perspective of international relations. With the underlying question of how US-China tensions are unfolding and impacting the structures and relationships that underpin global and regional order, the paper explores the dynamics of this bilateral contest. The concept of the Indo-Pacific System is introduced to analyze the reconfiguration of the regional security and economic frameworks currently pursued by America’s allies and partner countries, which form the foundation of regional order. Countries are strengthening alliances and forging new mini-lateral partnerships, incorporating security considerations into economic activities. By discussing the impacts of the US-China rivalry and regional architecture reconfiguration, the paper concludes that multilayered regional institutions are essential for stabilizing order.