<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze ASEAN’s role in addressing marine debris through the implementation of the ASEAN Regional Action Plan among ASEAN member states during the 2021–2025 period. The research employs a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach through library research. Data were collected from official ASEAN documents, international organization reports, scholarly articles, and other relevant publications concerning marine debris issues. The analysis utilizes Clive Archer’s theory of international organizations, which views international organizations as arenas and instruments of interstate cooperation. The findings reveal that ASEAN functions as an arena by facilitating regional coordination and cooperation in addressing marine plastic pollution and as an instrument through the ASEAN Regional Action Plan, which serves as a regional policy framework for member states. However, the study finds that most of the selected member states, namely Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam, had already established national policies related to marine debris before the adoption of the ASEAN Regional Action Plan in 2021. Therefore, ASEAN’s primary role lies in coordinating, harmonizing, and strengthening existing national policies rather than initiating them. This study concludes that ASEAN plays a significant role in enhancing regional cooperation on marine debris management, although the effectiveness of implementation remains dependent on the capacity and commitment of individual member states. Keywords: ASEAN, ASEAN Regional Action Plan, Clive Archer, Marine Debris, Marine Plastic Pollution.]]>
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