ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the evolution of Timor-Leste and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) relations in terms of the changing labels and agenda of the two parties. It examines how the political and economic compromises being made by Timor-Leste to become an ASEAN member are risking the democratic and pro-human rights ideals that legitimised Timor-Leste’s independence struggle and statehood. A deeper reason for Timor-Leste’s semi-inclusion is how ASEAN has constructed the image of the new state – a construction and labelling that has ranged from communist threat to failing state. ASEAN members were able to withstand international criticisms in the early 1990s as their remarkable economic growth and political stability translated into diplomatic influence vis-a-vis their extra-regional partners. ASEAN and Timor-Leste agree that the main challenge to admission is the latter’s lack of diplomatic, institutional and financial capabilities to fulfil its organisational obligations.
