Southeast Asian Affairs, first published in 1974, is an annual review of significant trends and developments in the region. It provides comprehensive commentaries to further the understanding of not only the region's dynamism but also of its tensions and conflicts. Thematic chapters examine key issues for the region as a whole whilst country-specific chapters provide detailed roundups of the developments, and their implications, of the year's events.

Traditionally, Taiwan has been viewed as the passive pawn of more aggressive powers, yet now it has begun to assert its voice in world affairs—especially through economic influence. This volume brings together leading scholars to examine the origins and implications of Taiwan's global role and the ramifications of its growing strength for such crucial policy issues as China's reunification and U.S. policy in East Asia.