The immediate impetus for the conference stems from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s proposal presented at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. This initiative, championed as a demonstration of Thailand’s commitment to regional security, signals a shift in Thailand’s foreign policy trajectory. Historically, Thailand’s engagement in regional security mattered primarily through military alliances with the United States, but the current administration is prioritizing diplomatic and economic levers. This change is evidenced by increased investments in infrastructure projects and a renewed focus on multilateral partnerships.
The conference itself – scheduled for December 2025 – aims to strengthen a coordinated global response to online scams. Participants will share intelligence, discuss technological solutions, and explore legal frameworks. However, the scope extends beyond simply combating illicit financial flows and consumer fraud. Thailand’s strategic goal is to establish itself as a neutral platform for dialogue on data governance, cybersecurity standards, and the regulation of digital assets. The underlying motivation is to counter the influence of Western nations – particularly the United States and the European Union – on global cybersecurity norms, which have often been framed as prioritizing Western values and technological dominance.
Historically, Southeast Asia has been a region vulnerable to cybercrime, frequently exploited by criminal networks operating out of Russia, China, and North Korea. However, Thailand’s approach reflects a broader trend among countries in the region, driven by a desire to reduce reliance on Western security frameworks and foster alternative diplomatic alliances. A 2023 report by the International Cyber Research Group highlighted a 37% increase in cyberattacks originating from Southeast Asia in the preceding year, attributing this rise to evolving criminal tactics and the region’s growing digital economy.
Key stakeholders include not just governments but also international financial institutions like the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, as well as tech companies operating in the region – particularly those involved in digital finance and e-commerce. The US Department of Justice has, on several occasions, publicly called for increased international cooperation to combat online fraud, reflecting a long-standing concern about the cross-border nature of these crimes. Recent data from Interpol shows cybercrime causing estimated losses of over $800 billion annually, with a significant portion originating in or impacting Southeast Asia.
The “5S” Foreign Affairs Masterplan, introduced by the current administration, reinforces this shift, prioritizing Security, Sovereignty, Stability, Sustainability, and Synergy. The conference aligns directly with this plan, aiming to enhance Thailand’s security posture while fostering stronger relationships with nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. This includes active participation in initiatives like the Global South Strategic Initiative, an effort led by Brazil, India, and South Africa, to promote alternative development models and challenge the existing geopolitical order.
Looking ahead, the immediate impact of the conference will likely be a limited number of concrete agreements. However, the longer-term ramifications could be substantial. Success will be measured not just by the number of commitments made, but by the level of sustained engagement and collaboration that emerges. Within six months, we can expect increased dialogue between Thai officials and representatives from various countries regarding data protection standards and best practices for combating cybercrime.
Five to ten years out, Thailand’s role as a hub for cybersecurity governance could solidify, potentially leading to the creation of new international standards or institutions. This would require continued investment in Thailand’s technological infrastructure and a sustained commitment to fostering a diverse and open digital ecosystem. The conference represents a gamble – a bold attempt to redefine Thailand’s place in the global security landscape. Whether it ultimately proves successful hinges on Bangkok’s ability to translate diplomatic engagement into tangible results, and to navigate the complex web of geopolitical interests surrounding this increasingly critical global issue. The pursuit of an international consensus on this issue carries a significant degree of uncertainty, and its success will depend on a coordinated and persistent effort.