Geopolitics of Southeast Asia in the Modern Era Southeast Asia is a strategic region located at the heart of interactions between various global powers. In the modern era, the region’s geopolitical dynamics are characterized by a number of key factors, including military strength, economics and international relations. One important aspect in Southeast Asian geopolitics is the role played by large countries such as the United States, China and Russia. The United States, through its pivot policy to Asia, is trying to strengthen alliances with ASEAN countries to balance China’s influence. In this context, security cooperation is the main focus, especially regarding the South China Sea issue which is full of territorial disputes. Meanwhile, China continues to develop its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which includes infrastructure investments in Southeast Asian countries. Through projects such as port and highway construction, China is increasing its economic influence, potentially changing the geopolitical structure of the region. However, this has also sparked concerns among ASEAN countries about their high economic dependence on Beijing. Environmental issues and climate change are also part of the geopolitical dynamics of Southeast Asia. Countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia face major challenges in dealing with the impacts of climate change, which can trigger social and economic tensions. Cross-border cooperation in natural resource management and disaster mitigation is increasingly important. Apart from that, cyber security and terrorism issues are also major concerns in Southeast Asia. Several extremist groups have been operating in the region, posing a threat to regional stability. Intelligence and surveillance cooperation between countries in ASEAN is essential to prevent acts of terrorism and maintain security. Relations between ASEAN member countries also play a crucial role in regional geopolitics. Despite cultural and political differences, ASEAN countries strive to build solidarity to face external threats and promote peace. The ASEAN Organization serves as a platform for dialogue and cooperation, although its effectiveness is often questioned. The expansion of Russian influence in Southeast Asia should not be ignored either. Apart from the main focus of the US and China, Russia is trying to strengthen ties with countries such as Vietnam through military cooperation and energy trade. This adds to the geopolitical complexity of the region, where countries seek to balance the influence of major powers. In economic terms, Southeast Asia is one of the fastest growing centers in the world. The rapid growth of the middle class creates new consumption markets, attracting foreign investment. However, trade tensions between the US and China could affect investment and trade in the region, with significant impacts on the economies of ASEAN member countries. Meanwhile, the issue of human rights and democracy has also emerged as a challenge in Southeast Asian geopolitics. Internal conflicts in countries such as Myanmar highlight the need for international attention and active involvement of ASEAN to resolve humanitarian crises. By considering these various factors, it can be concluded that Southeast Asia’s geopolitics in the modern era is very complex and dynamic. This region is not only an arena for global power competition, but also a place where cooperation and dialogue between countries are vital to creating stability and prosperity.