The organisation pursues political, economic and cultural objectives with a view to promoting economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region, and to strengthening regional peace and stability. The ten member states are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The eleventh country will be Timor-Leste. In addition, there is also the ASEAN Plus Three framework, which includes China, Japan and South Korea.

In October 2025, the 47th ASEAN Summit took place in Kuala Lumpur, and its outcomes reflect efforts towards stability, cooperation and the resolution of internal tensions. The regular ministerial-level summits are predominantly held between ASEAN and neighbouring countries. Relations with Europe and the EU are occasionally somewhat complicated, as decision-makers in Brussels cannot act as flexibly as is customary among Asian countries.