The Demands and Paradoxes of the Integration Pursuit of University Alliances in Differentiated Regional Alliances: Taking the ASEAN University Alliance as an Example to Compare with the European Union

ASEAN's integration of higher education is crucial for enhancing human capital and regional competitiveness. Established in 1995, the ASEAN University Network (AUN) promotes collaboration among nearly 200 universities, fostering academic mobility and talent development. However, disparities in economic development, political systems, and cultural backgrounds complicate these efforts. While ASEAN aspires to integrate similarly to the European Union (EU), its diverse member states face challenges in cooperation. The AUN reflects ASEAN's commitment to addressing these issues and narrowing developmental gaps. Continued navigation of these complexities is essential for deepening integration and responding to the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Asia-Pacific region.