The Multilateral Behaviour of Awkward Powers: A Thai Case Study

Abstract

This study examines the multilateral behaviour of Thailand, an awkward power, through the lens of the regional group formation (RGF) theory, using the formations of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) and the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) as examples. The RGF theory postulates that states establish smaller regional multilaterals to secure exclusive leadership and international recognition. However, Thailand’s regional multilateralism and its manoeuvring in launching the ACD and the ACMECS unveiled deviation in multilateral behaviour. Specifically, Thailand’s leadership in the ACMECS formation is consistent with the hypothetical explanation, whereas its bridging role in the ACD, inviting major Asian powers as founding members, deviates from the expected scenario derived from the theory. This discrepancy questions the applicability of the RGF theory to smaller powers, especially awkward ones, implicitly suggesting that their multilateral behaviour appears to be multifaceted. The study recommends theoretical refinement to better explain the behavioural nuances of non-major powers in regional multilateralism.