Evaluation of ASEAN regional program

Special evaluation covers the period 1979-3/84 and is based on site visits and interviews with key officials from the U.S. and ASEAN member governments. The program appears to be successfully promoting regional cooperation and technology transfer, and, despite the difficulty of planning and implementing projects through ASEAN groups which meet only semi-annually, operates well. Training, the main focus to date, has provided a high quality of education at a lower cost than possible in the United States, and most trainees have remained in the region upon completion of training. Additionally, while their viability has yet to be tested, the training and research centers established under the projects are appreciated and provide quality services. ASEAN management has been generally good, steering committees have performed efficiently, and the projects have experienced few problems. However, A.I.D. support for project design has been too thin: decisions are being made in Washington and implemented in the field by a single individual. A.I.D. grant obligations through 1983 totaled just over $17 million for nine regional projects, and annual planned commitments are expected to reach $5 million in 1985. Neither a program expansion nor loan funding are viable at this time, however, as the ASEAN system remains too disjointed to be cost-effective and as ASEAN countries are not willing to accept joint liability. Although program benefits are largely indirect, Thailand has hosted the most projects and can be seen to have received the greatest benefit, and Indonesia and the Philippines have benefited more than Singapore and Malaysia. It is recommended that: the program be continued with no increase in planned levels until the ASEAN system includes a permanent secretariat; projects be reviewed at AID/W under standard development project criteria; personnel support from Missions in the region be increased; and a basket structure be used only for project development support, not for project funding.