The Common Space in Southeast Asian Higher Education

Authors

  • Miguel Antonio Lim
  • Soubin Sisavath
  • Mark Andrew Elepaño

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6017/ihe.2025.125.21019

Abstract

This article examines the promise and challenges of the Common Higher Education Space in Southeast Asia following the 2024 Joint Declaration signed by ASEAN and SEAMEO. While the declaration marks a key milestone in regional cooperation, persistent disparities in resources, readiness, and regulatory alignment reveal a collective action problem. The article argues that sustained political will, coordinated implementation, and inclusive engagement are essential for turning regional ambition into meaningful, long-term impact.

Author Biographies

Miguel Antonio Lim

Miguel Antonio Lim is senior lecturer in Education and International Development at the Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, United Kingdom. E-mail: miguelantonio.lim@manchester.ac.uk. 

Soubin Sisavath

Soubin Sisavath is deputy head for International Mobility in the International Relations Office and lecturer in Communication Management at the National University of Laos. E-mail: soubin@nuol.edu.la. 

Mark Andrew Elepaño

Mark Andrew Elepaño is a cotutelle doctoral candidate at Coventry University, United Kingdom, and Aarhus University, Denmark. E-mail: elepanom@coventry.ac.uk.

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Published

2025-12-16

How to Cite

Antonio Lim, M., Sisavath, S., & Elepaño, M. (2025). The Common Space in Southeast Asian Higher Education. International Higher Education, (125). https://doi.org/10.6017/ihe.2025.125.21019

Issue

No. 125 (2025): Winter Issue

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2025 International Higher Education

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