India Provides Financial Assistance To Philippines In Fight Against ISIS

India decided in 2018 to provide financial assistance to the Philippines to bolster its fight against Islamic State (IS)-affiliated terror groups that had seized control of Marawi City in the Mindanao province on May 23, 2017. The Philippines has been engaged in a protracted battle to regain control of the city.

This marks the first instance of India extending financial aid to another country specifically for relief and rehabilitation efforts related to terrorist activities, signaling a significant shift in India's approach to international counter-terrorism cooperation and its growing role as a regional security provider.

India's Counter-Terrorism Aid to the Philippines: A Deep Dive

The year 2018 witnessed a notable development in India's foreign policy and its approach to counter-terrorism, as it extended financial assistance to the Philippines. This aid was earmarked to support the Philippines' efforts in combating Islamic State (IS)-affiliated terror groups that had entrenched themselves in Marawi City, located in the Mindanao province. This marked a significant departure from India's traditional foreign aid practices, as it was the first instance of India providing financial assistance to another nation specifically for relief and rehabilitation efforts directly linked to terrorist activities. The decision reflects a confluence of factors, including India's growing concerns about the spread of ISIS ideology, its commitment to supporting friendly nations facing similar threats, and its broader strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

To fully understand the significance of this event, it is crucial to delve into the context surrounding the Marawi crisis, the broader implications of ISIS's presence in Southeast Asia, and the evolving nature of India's foreign policy and counter-terrorism strategy.

The Marawi Crisis: A Battle Against Extremism

The Marawi crisis erupted on May 23, 2017, when ISIS-affiliated militants, primarily from the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups, launched a coordinated assault on Marawi City, a predominantly Muslim city in the southern Philippines. These groups, having pledged allegiance to ISIS, aimed to establish a wilayat (province) of the Islamic State in Southeast Asia. The militants seized control of key infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and government buildings, and engaged in fierce fighting with the Philippine military.

The siege of Marawi lasted for five months, resulting in widespread destruction, displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians, and significant loss of life. The conflict exposed the vulnerability of the Philippines to the growing threat of ISIS and its affiliates and highlighted the challenges of countering extremism in the region. The battle for Marawi became a symbol of the global fight against ISIS, drawing attention from international observers and prompting concerns about the potential for the group to establish a foothold in Southeast Asia.

The crisis also underscored the complex socio-political dynamics in the Mindanao region, which has a long history of conflict and unrest. The region is home to a significant Muslim population, and various insurgent groups have been active for decades, seeking greater autonomy or independence from the central government in Manila. The emergence of ISIS-affiliated groups added a new dimension to the conflict, further complicating the security landscape and posing a significant challenge to the Philippine government.

ISIS's Expansion into Southeast Asia: A Regional Threat

The rise of ISIS in Iraq and Syria had a profound impact on the global security landscape, inspiring and attracting foreign fighters from around the world. Southeast Asia was not immune to this phenomenon, as hundreds of individuals from countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines traveled to the Middle East to join ISIS. Upon their return, these individuals sought to establish ISIS-affiliated groups in their home countries, posing a significant threat to regional security.

The presence of ISIS-affiliated groups in Southeast Asia raised concerns about the potential for increased terrorist activity, including attacks on civilian targets, recruitment of new members, and the spread of extremist ideology. The porous borders and weak governance structures in some parts of the region further facilitated the movement of militants and the flow of funds and weapons.

The Marawi crisis served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by ISIS and its affiliates in Southeast Asia and prompted regional governments to step up their counter-terrorism efforts. Countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore have implemented stricter laws, increased intelligence sharing, and conducted joint military exercises to combat the threat of terrorism.

India's Evolving Counter-Terrorism Strategy

India has long been a victim of terrorism, facing threats from various groups operating both within and outside its borders. Over the years, India has developed a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy that encompasses various measures, including strengthening its intelligence gathering capabilities, enhancing its border security, and enacting stricter laws to combat terrorism financing and recruitment.

However, India's approach to counter-terrorism has traditionally been focused on addressing threats within its own borders and in its immediate neighborhood. The decision to provide financial assistance to the Philippines marked a significant departure from this traditional approach, signaling a more proactive and outward-looking counter-terrorism strategy. This shift reflects India's growing recognition that terrorism is a global threat that requires a coordinated international response.

Several factors contributed to this shift in India's counter-terrorism strategy:

• Growing concerns about the spread of ISIS ideology: India has been increasingly concerned about the potential for ISIS to radicalize and recruit individuals within its own borders. The presence of ISIS-affiliated groups in Southeast Asia, a region with close cultural and economic ties to India, posed a direct threat to India's security.
• Commitment to supporting friendly nations: India has long maintained close ties with the Philippines, and the decision to provide financial assistance was a demonstration of India's commitment to supporting its friend in its time of need. This gesture also aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation on security matters.
• Strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region: India has been actively promoting its Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen its ties with countries in Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Providing financial assistance to the Philippines was seen as a way to enhance India's influence and credibility in the region and to contribute to regional stability.
• Recognition of terrorism as a global threat: India has come to recognize that terrorism is a global threat that requires a coordinated international response. By providing financial assistance to the Philippines, India was signaling its willingness to play a more active role in the global fight against terrorism.

The Nature of India's Financial Assistance

While the exact amount of financial assistance provided by India to the Philippines remains undisclosed, it was specifically earmarked for relief and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City. This included providing assistance to displaced civilians, rebuilding damaged infrastructure, and supporting programs aimed at preventing radicalization and promoting reconciliation.

The financial assistance was provided through the Indian government's development assistance program, which is managed by the Ministry of External Affairs. The program aims to support development projects in partner countries, focusing on areas such as infrastructure, education, health, and agriculture.

The decision to provide financial assistance for relief and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City was significant because it was the first time that India had specifically earmarked funds for a counter-terrorism-related project in another country. This reflected a growing recognition within the Indian government that addressing the root causes of terrorism, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity, is essential for preventing the spread of extremism.

Stakeholder Perspectives

The decision by India to provide financial assistance to the Philippines was met with widespread approval from both countries.

• India: The Indian government viewed the assistance as a demonstration of its commitment to supporting the Philippines in its fight against terrorism and as a way to strengthen bilateral relations. Indian officials also emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of terrorism and promoting regional stability.
• Philippines: The Philippine government expressed its gratitude for India's support and acknowledged the importance of the financial assistance in helping to rebuild Marawi City and to address the needs of displaced civilians. Philippine officials also emphasized the importance of continued cooperation with India on security matters.
• Other countries: The decision was also welcomed by other countries in the region, who saw it as a positive sign of India's growing role as a regional security provider. Many countries in Southeast Asia face similar challenges from terrorism and extremism, and they view India as a valuable partner in the fight against these threats.

Implications of India's Action

India's decision to provide financial assistance to the Philippines had several important implications:

• Strengthening of bilateral relations: The assistance helped to strengthen bilateral relations between India and the Philippines, paving the way for increased cooperation on a range of issues, including security, trade, and investment.
• Enhancement of India's image: The assistance enhanced India's image as a responsible and supportive partner in the region. This helped to strengthen India's diplomatic standing and to increase its influence in Southeast Asia.
• Contribution to regional stability: The assistance contributed to regional stability by helping to address the root causes of terrorism and by supporting the Philippine government's efforts to combat extremism.
• Promotion of a more proactive counter-terrorism strategy: The decision signaled a shift towards a more proactive and outward-looking counter-terrorism strategy for India. This reflected a growing recognition within the Indian government that terrorism is a global threat that requires a coordinated international response.

Broader Context: India-Philippines Relations

India and the Philippines have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1949. The relationship has steadily strengthened over the years, driven by shared values, common interests, and a growing recognition of the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region.

Several factors have contributed to the deepening of India-Philippines relations:

• Economic cooperation: Trade and investment between India and the Philippines have been growing steadily, and both countries are keen to further expand their economic ties. India is a major investor in the Philippines, and there is significant potential for increased cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, IT, and pharmaceuticals.
• Defense and security cooperation: India and the Philippines have been increasing their defense and security cooperation, including through joint military exercises, training programs, and the exchange of information. Both countries share concerns about maritime security and the threat of terrorism, and they are working together to address these challenges.
• Cultural and people-to-people exchanges: There are strong cultural and people-to-people links between India and the Philippines, and both countries are keen to promote greater understanding and exchange. Thousands of Filipinos study in India each year, and there is a growing Indian diaspora in the Philippines.
• Shared strategic interests: India and the Philippines share a common interest in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries are committed to upholding the rule of law and to promoting a rules-based international order.

India's Act East Policy and ASEAN

India's Act East Policy, launched in 2014, aims to strengthen India's ties with countries in Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The policy has been a key driver of India's engagement with ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

ASEAN is a regional organization comprising ten Southeast Asian countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. ASEAN plays a crucial role in promoting peace, stability, and economic integration in the region.

India has been actively engaged with ASEAN through various mechanisms, including the ASEAN-India Summit, the East Asia Summit, and the ASEAN Regional Forum. India is also a member of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a free trade agreement involving ASEAN countries and six other countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

India's engagement with ASEAN is guided by its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region, including promoting maritime security, countering terrorism, and ensuring freedom of navigation. India also sees ASEAN as a key partner in its economic development, and it is working to expand trade and investment ties with the region.

The Future of India-Philippines Cooperation

The decision by India to provide financial assistance to the Philippines in its fight against ISIS-affiliated groups is a testament to the growing strength of the bilateral relationship and to India's commitment to playing a more active role in the region.

Looking ahead, there is significant potential for further cooperation between India and the Philippines in a range of areas, including:

• Defense and security: India and the Philippines can further enhance their defense and security cooperation, including through joint military exercises, training programs, and the exchange of information. Both countries can also work together to address maritime security challenges and to counter the threat of terrorism.
• Economic cooperation: India and the Philippines can further expand their trade and investment ties, focusing on areas such as infrastructure, IT, and pharmaceuticals. Both countries can also work together to promote greater connectivity and to facilitate the flow of goods and services.
• Cultural and people-to-people exchanges: India and the Philippines can further promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges, including through scholarships, student exchange programs, and tourism. Both countries can also work together to preserve and promote their shared cultural heritage.
• Regional cooperation: India and the Philippines can work together to promote peace, stability, and economic integration in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries can also work together to address regional challenges such as climate change, disaster management, and public health.

The Role of International Law and Norms

While India's provision of financial assistance to the Philippines was primarily a bilateral matter, it also implicates broader issues of international law and norms related to counter-terrorism and humanitarian assistance.

• Sovereignty and Non-Intervention: International law generally prohibits states from interfering in the internal affairs of other states. However, there is a growing recognition that states have a responsibility to protect their own populations from mass atrocities, including terrorism. In some cases, this may justify intervention in another state, with the consent of the host government, to prevent or suppress terrorism. India's assistance to the Philippines was provided with the consent of the Philippine government and was aimed at supporting its efforts to combat terrorism within its own territory.
• Humanitarian Assistance: International law recognizes the right of individuals to receive humanitarian assistance in situations of armed conflict or natural disaster. States have a responsibility to ensure that humanitarian assistance is provided in a neutral, impartial, and independent manner. India's financial assistance to the Philippines was earmarked for relief and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City, and it was intended to provide assistance to displaced civilians and to rebuild damaged infrastructure.
• Counter-Terrorism Obligations: International law requires states to take measures to prevent and suppress terrorism, including by criminalizing terrorist acts, prosecuting terrorists, and preventing the financing of terrorism. States also have a responsibility to cooperate with each other in the fight against terrorism. India's assistance to the Philippines was a demonstration of its commitment to cooperating with other states in the fight against terrorism.

Challenges and Considerations

While India's decision to provide financial assistance to the Philippines was a positive development, it also raises some challenges and considerations:

• Transparency and Accountability: It is important to ensure that the financial assistance is used effectively and efficiently and that it reaches the intended beneficiaries. This requires transparency in the allocation and disbursement of funds and accountability mechanisms to prevent corruption and misuse of resources.
• Coordination with Other Actors: It is important to coordinate with other actors involved in the relief and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City, including the Philippine government, international organizations, and NGOs. This will help to avoid duplication of efforts and to ensure that assistance is provided in a coordinated and effective manner.
• Sustainability: It is important to ensure that the relief and rehabilitation efforts are sustainable in the long term. This requires addressing the root causes of the conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity, and promoting reconciliation and social cohesion.
• Avoiding Unintended Consequences: It is important to be aware of the potential for unintended consequences of the assistance, such as exacerbating existing tensions or creating new grievances. This requires careful planning and implementation of the assistance program, taking into account the local context and the needs of the affected communities.

The Broader Geopolitical Context

India's engagement with the Philippines, including its provision of financial assistance, must be viewed within the broader geopolitical context of the Indo-Pacific region. The region is characterized by rising strategic competition between major powers, including the United States and China.

• China's Growing Influence: China has been rapidly expanding its economic and military influence in the Indo-Pacific region, including through its Belt and Road Initiative and its assertive actions in the South China Sea. This has raised concerns among some countries in the region, including the Philippines, about China's intentions.
• US-China Competition: The United States has been seeking to counter China's growing influence in the region by strengthening its alliances and partnerships with countries like India, Japan, and Australia. The US has also been increasing its military presence in the region and conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea.
• India's Role: India has been seeking to play a more active role in the Indo-Pacific region, promoting a rules-based international order and advocating for freedom of navigation and overflight. India has also been strengthening its defense and security cooperation with countries in the region, including the Philippines.

India's engagement with the Philippines is part of its broader strategy of promoting a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, where all countries can pursue their interests in a peaceful and cooperative manner. By providing financial assistance to the Philippines, India is signaling its commitment to supporting its friends and partners in the region and to contributing to regional stability.

Conclusion

India's decision to provide financial assistance to the Philippines in 2018 to combat ISIS-affiliated groups in Marawi City was a significant development in its foreign policy and counter-terrorism strategy. It marked the first time India had extended financial aid to another country specifically for relief and rehabilitation efforts related to terrorist activities, signaling a more proactive and outward-looking approach. This decision was driven by a confluence of factors, including growing concerns about the spread of ISIS ideology, a commitment to supporting friendly nations facing similar threats, and broader strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The assistance helped to strengthen bilateral relations between India and the Philippines, enhance India's image as a responsible partner in the region, and contribute to regional stability. While challenges and considerations remain, the move underscores India's evolving role as a regional security provider and its commitment to combating terrorism on a global scale.