The dynamics of globalisation has affected the way states have approached borders, issues regarding borders and the subsequent border management that cuts across multiple issues and are deeply complexed. The region is facing an increasing arrays of transnational threats that mandate greater vigilance and resilient border control. These threats include transporting counterfeit goods, trafficking of timber and wildlife, illicit drug trafficking and smuggling and trafficking of people across borders, and growing threats of cross-border terrorism.

At the 34th ASEAN Summit in Bangkok, Thailand on 23 June 2019, the Leaders, through the Chairman Statement, agreed to strengthen cooperation on border management and to further enhance the effectiveness of existing relevant ASEAN mechanisms on border management cooperation and explore possible border management cooperation arrangements under the relevant Sectoral Bodies.