The rapid pace of digital transformation has brought both opportunities and challenges to the ASEAN region, significantly impacting peace and security dynamics. One critical aspect is the integration of digital tools into the regional Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. A recent roundtable discussion at the ASEAN Future Forum in Hà Nội explored this intersection, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach to ensure that women are not left behind in this digital shift.
Bridging Digital Gaps for Sustainable Peace The forum, themed “Women, Peace and Security – Digital Inclusion for Sustainable Peace,” provided a platform for experts, policymakers, and peacekeepers to discuss digital advancements and their role in strengthening peacebuilding efforts. Participants identified key challenges, including digital accessibility gaps, cyber threats, misinformation, and the underrepresentation of women in decision-making spaces.
Kung Phoak, Secretary of State at Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, acknowledged ASEAN’s commitment to the WPS agenda but highlighted challenges in aligning national priorities with regional frameworks. He called for a more integrated approach to translate regional WPS priorities into national policies effectively.
Leveraging Technology for Women’s Inclusion in Peacekeeping Lieutenant Sa Minh Ngọc from Việt Nam’s Peacekeeping Department shared insights into how digital technologies empower women in peacekeeping missions. For instance, AI-driven social media analysis has been instrumental in detecting misinformation and preventing violence in conflict zones like Somalia and Uganda. Additionally, AI-powered radio analysis has been used to monitor social tensions in real-time, creating a safer environment for women’s participation in peacebuilding.
However, she noted significant challenges such as inadequate digital infrastructure, lack of connectivity, and limited technical resources in post-conflict areas. She emphasized that addressing these barriers requires systemic and long-term strategies rather than ad-hoc solutions.
Tackling Cyber Threats and Digital Inequality As women engage more actively in digital spaces, they become vulnerable to cyber threats, misinformation, disinformation, and online harassment. Ngọc warned that AI systems lacking gender-inclusive design could inadvertently reinforce inequalities instead of addressing them.
Ryce Chanchai, Regional Programme Lead from UN Women Indonesia and ASEAN, pointed out that Southeast Asia is at the forefront of emerging peace and security issues. She highlighted that AI-driven scams, cybercrime, and data breaches pose serious threats to individuals, businesses, and national security. The region has seen a rise in online scam operations, with at least 220,000 individuals trafficked and forced into cybercrime activities.
She stressed the need for ASEAN to incorporate gender and social inclusion perspectives into its cybersecurity cooperation strategy, linking WPS initiatives with youth engagement to build a more resilient digital ecosystem.
Global Best Practices and ASEAN’s Path Forward British Ambassador to ASEAN, Sarah Tiffin, shared the UK’s experience in integrating digital frameworks into development policies. The UK has set clear targets for women’s representation in cyber policymaking and peacekeeping leadership roles. Tiffin advocated for a multi-stakeholder approach, where civil society and private sector actors collaborate with governments to develop inclusive and effective digital policies.
She emphasized that while digital tools create new spaces for inclusive dialogue and early conflict warning systems, they also introduce risks such as increased surveillance and cyber threats. Thus, striking a balance between digital innovation and security is essential for sustainable peace efforts.
As ASEAN defines its post-2025 vision, prioritizing digital inclusion within the WPS agenda is imperative. Addressing gender disparities in digital access, strengthening cybersecurity measures, and integrating AI responsibly into peacekeeping efforts will ensure that women play an active and protected role in regional peace and security. By leveraging technology strategically, ASEAN can build a more inclusive, secure, and sustainable future for all.
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