RSIS organised a seminar on 6 March 2019 to launch the book Negotiating Governance on Non-Traditional Security in Southeast Asia and Beyond. Written by Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony, Professor of International Relations and Head of the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies, the book is published by Columbia University Press. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ong Keng Yong, Executive Deputy Chairman of RSIS, congratulated Prof Caballero-Anthony for producing a work that is both academic and policy-oriented and advances the concept of non-traditional security.

Presenting a summary of the book, Prof Caballero-Anthony argued that in a region that is often described as zealous in protecting state sovereignty, security governance of NTS issues does exist, bringing together state and non-state actors who can set the security agenda, provide resources, push for observance of certain norms, and seek collaborative policy approaches. While not discounting the significant role of the state, Prof Caballero-Anthony explained how non-state actors, such as the private sector, NGOs, faith-based movements, and communities of experts and academics, have become crucial “security governors” engaging with states, regional organisations, and institutional frameworks at the local, national, and regional levels. Their efforts to address the multifaceted transboundary NTS challenges confronting the region today are contributing to reshaping security governance.

Commenting on the book, Prof Kanti Bajpai from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy described it as the first major publication that takes a comprehensive notion of security in the region, combining theoretical and empirical insights. He commended Prof Caballero-Anthony for writing a practical and succinct book that can be referenced by multiple actors, including the region’s policymakers, as they seek regional approaches to NTS challenges.