Among the various issues and geopolitical theatres involving US-China rivalry, Southeast Asia represents a vital region of concern. As both Washington and Beijing seek to attract allies to their cause, Southeast Asia will increasingly be required to take sides, as opposed to staying neutral. This talk will provide a contemporary discussion of the challenges facing Southeast Asian countries and analyze why it remains crucial to the outcome and future of great power competition. Tonight's speaker will be Benjamin Ho Tze Ern, Assistant Professor at the China Programme S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. This is a presentation of the OSU School of Global Studies and Partnerships