Roles and Structure of ASEAN Center of Military Medicine to Support ASEAN Military Cooperation

Abstract

Abstract

                The Ministries of Defence of the Kingdom of Thailand and Russian Federation had been given the honor to co-chair the Experts’ Working Group on Military Medicine under the framework of ADMM - Plus during the 2014 - 2016 cycle.  The co-chairs were committed to establish ASEAN Center of Military Medicine (ACMM) in Thailand.  It is imperative, therefore, to study the appropriate roles and structure of ACMM, as well as how to acquire the support and contribution from Plus countries and relevant organizations.  Since the Royal Thai Army Medical Department is the main unit that supports the establishment of ACMM, it is essential that the Department’s organizational restructuring is accordingly explored.         

                This research is conducted qualitatively by studying the Concept Paper on the Establishment of ACMM and analyzing experts’ ideas and thoughts.  It is concluded that ACMM is expected to promote military medical activities in the region, as well as to support other military cooperation under the frameworks of ADMM and ADMM - Plus.  ACMM also serves as a tool to promote trusts amongst nations in the Asia-Pacific region.

                There are certain factors that determine ACMM structure -- the mission stated in the Concept Paper, readiness to perform joint military operations, and the needs to support other ADMM/ADMM - Plus military activities.  Considering the aforementioned factors, ACMM should comprise the Board of Directors, Secretariat Office, and 5 functional sections (Data Processing, Plans and Operations, Coordination, Supporting, and Communications). The priority should be given to the process of setting up the Board of Directors.

      The Terms of Reference (TOR) must be drafted to facilitate supports and assistance from Plus countries and international organizations.  The content of TOR may include information exchanges, academic seminars, training courses, research and developments, and financial contribution.

          It is necessary that the structure of the Royal Thai Army Medical Department be adjusted to accommodate the responsibility of running and managing ACMM. The status of ACMM as an ASEAN entity must be obtained prior to the signing of the MOU between the Government of Thailand and ASEAN Secretariat Office.