The Singapore Institute of International Affairs is a non-government think tank based in Singapore. The Institute conducts research, hosts events, and plans conferences that deal with pressing issues in international affairs, with special focus on South East Asia. It is the oldest think tank in Singapore and it was founded in 1961,.
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Research
The SIIA's conducts research for the benefit of its members by working with experts across the spectrum of society, from public officials to academics to businessmen. The goal is to provide insight into a variety of perspectives that span different countries, industries, and interests.
The SIIA has produced numerous influential reports, conferences, and recommendations, such as the recommendation for the ASEAN Regional Forum, now known as the leading forum for multilateral dialogue in Asia regarding security concerns. Other initiatives include recommendations for an ASEAN Economic Community, dialogues for a growing regionalism in East Asia, and an assembly for non-governmental organizations and community groups in ASEAN.
The SIIA also convenes an annual Asia Pacific Roundtable, held in Malaysia, as well as conferences, symposium and dialogues pertaining to timely, challenging issues.
Research Foci
Current subjects for research include ASEAN, and Regionalism, as well as extensive work looking at US-Asia relations. The SIIA also does work concerning the environment, climate change, and energy issues, and is in the process of organizing a conference that deal with energy security and nuclear energy in August. The Institute has done some work on anti-corruption measures, as well as transparency in government, and continues to support efforts to increase regional and global dialogues on pressing issues.
ASEAN-ISIS
SIIA was instrumental in the founding of the ASEAN Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ASEAN-ISIS) in Bali in September 1988. The association is the preeminent vehicle for Track II diplomacy in South East Asia. Its purpose is to encourage cooperation, coordination, and engagement among stakeholders and policymakers, as well as scholars and analysts in ASEAN, to work toward the sustained security and stability of South East Asia.
Events
The SIIA holds conferences, events, and conversations with leading members of both the public and private sector relevant to Singapore and South East Asia.
Recent speakers include:
Secretary William Cohen, Co-Chairman of the CSIS US ASEAN Strategy Commission
Dr. Kurt Campbell, US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs
H.E. Abdulaziz Aladwani, Ambassador, The Embassy of the State of Kuwait