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The establishment of national territorial boundaries is a strategic priority to safeguard sovereignty, maintain security stability, and strengthen bilateral relations between Indonesia and Malaysia as well as Timor-Leste. As of 2024, there remain nine Outstanding Boundary Problems (OBP) with Malaysia and two unresolved segments with Timor-Leste. These issues stem from the continued relevance of outdated colonial agreements, limited diplomatic capacity, weak inter-agency coordination, and minimal support from modern surveying technology. Based on an analysis of four policy alternatives using the criteria of effectiveness, efficiency, and long-term impact, the Strengthening of Intensive Bilateral Diplomacy has been identified as the priority policy. Implementation is directed to the Badan Nasional Pengelola Perbatasan (BNPP) as the main coordinator, supported by regulatory frameworks, diplomatic resources, and cross-ministerial/institutional coordination. Through this strategy, the resolution of pending boundary segments can be accelerated, legal certainty over national territory can be strengthened, security stability in border areas can be improved, and bilateral relations can become closer. Furthermore, Indonesia needs to strengthen diplomatic strategies, leverage technology, and enhance inter-agency coordination to accelerate the resolution of national border disputes. This policy directly contributes to achieving territorial sovereignty and sustainable development toward Indonesia Vision 2045.

The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a global health crisis that revealed China's political strategies in intricate ways. This study examines the political aspects of China's response to the outbreak, focusing on its information management, domestic policies, and international diplomacy. By analyzing narratives surrounding the virus's origins and its global spread, the research also assessed the pandemic's impact on Indo-China relations[1] across diplomatic and economic dimensions. The pandemic period also coincided with a sharp deterioration in bilateral trust between India and China, highlighted by the Galwan Valley clash and subsequent tensions along the Line of Actual Control, which deepened strategic mistrust and hardened India’s policy stance. The findings illuminate how political maneuvering has redefined China's geopolitical standing during this crisis, providing insights into the evolving landscape of Indo-Pacific relations. By uncovering these complexities, this study contributes to a nuanced understanding of health geopolitics and the underlying power dynamics.    

Consular services have become a critical site of state intervention in the governance of international labor migration, particularly for migrant-sending countries such as Indonesia whose citizens depend on overseas missions for administrative protection and access to public services abroad. Despite the growing importance of consular institutions in safeguarding migrant workers’ rights and welfare, existing scholarship remains fragmented, offering limited conceptual integration of how administrative capacity shapes institutional readiness in cross-border public service delivery. Addressing this gap, this article presents a structured narrative–integrative literature review that synthesizes international peer-reviewed studies on administrative capacity, policy capacity, consular services, and migrant worker protection published in the last five years. Drawing on Administrative Capacity Theory as the core framework, complemented by Public Service Theory, Policy Implementation Theory, Street-Level Bureaucracy, and Institutional Theory, the review systematically analyzes how different dimensions of capacity configure institutional readiness in consular services. The findings reveal that institutional readiness emerges from the interaction of four interrelated dimensions: human resource capacity, organizational and procedural capacity, institutional and coordination capacity, and resource and infrastructure capacity. Rather than functioning as isolated determinants, these dimensions collectively shape how consular institutions translate formal mandates into service outcomes under conditions of transnational governance, legal pluralism, and fluctuating demand. The review further demonstrates that frontline discretion, coordination gaps, procedural rigidity, and uneven resource allocation are recurrent patterns across the literature, underscoring the dynamic and practice-based nature of administrative capacity in consular contexts. Theoretically, this article contributes to public administration scholarship by extending administrative capacity frameworks into the underexplored domain of cross-border public services and by integrating previously segmented theoretical perspectives into a coherent conceptual synthesis. By reframing consular services as institutionally embedded public service systems rather than solely diplomatic functions, the article advances understanding of institutional readiness in migrant worker protection and provides a robust analytical foundation for future empirical and comparative research in international public administration.

This research analyzes the Indonesian government’s policy responses to combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing in the Arafura Sea during 2023-2024, focusing on the case of the Run Zeng 03 and Run Zeng 05 vessels. These foreign-flagged vessels, owned by a Chinese company but registered under the Russian flag, were involved in illegal fishing and human rights violations against Indonesian fishery crew members. Using a qualitative descriptive approach supported by literature studies and official government data, this research analyzes how Indonesia implemented its maritime sovereignty through legal enforcement, inter-agency coordination, and international maritime diplomacy. The findings reveal that Indonesia’s measures, such as vessel monitoring AIS/VMS technology, law enforcement through arrests and seizures, and diplomatic engagement with flag states reflect a progressive but still reactive approach. The study identifies key challenges, including limited foreign authorities. This research highlights the need for an integrated policy framework that combines hard power (law enforcement and patrols) with soft power (international cooperation, economic diplomacy, and labor protection). The study concludes that a comprehensive and collaborative approach is essential to strengthen maritime governance and ensure sustainable, equitable management of Indonesia’s marine resources.

State speeches in international forums are a strategic arena for the practice of diplomacy and leadership image management. This study analyzes President Prabowo Subianto's rhetorical style in his speech at the 80th UN General Assembly on September 23, 2025. Using Aristotelian theory, namely ethos, pathos, and logos, to understand how rhetoric functions in strengthening political legitimacy, humanitarian solidarity, and international policy arguments. Using a qualitative-descriptive approach, this study examines transcripts of official speeches and identifies quotations that represent each persuasive mode. The analysis shows that Prabowo builds ethos through historical references, concrete actions of Indonesia such as the contribution of peacekeeping troops, and pathos is depicted through narratives of suffering, calls for solidarity, and an emphasis on the future of the younger generation; while logos is demonstrated through the presentation of data, policy plans such as the net-zero target, technical solutions such as sea walls, and systematic cause-and-effect arguments. This combination of ethos, pathos, and logos confirms that the speech was not simply a policy statement but also a rhetorical diplomatic tool that strengthened Indonesia's image as a constructive global actor. These findings contribute to the study of leadership communication and diplomatic rhetoric, particularly in the context of developing countries seeking to enhance the role of multilateralism and soft power.

This article explores the significance of ontological security in shaping Indonesia’s foreign policy formulation. Moving beyond material conceptions of security focused on military, economic, and territorial dimensions it argues that Indonesia’s foreign behavior is deeply influenced by the need to maintain a stable sense of national identity and historical continuity. As the world’s largest Muslim-majority democracy and a leading Southeast Asian nation, Indonesia consistently projects itself through identity-based narratives rooted in anti-colonialism and the “free and active” foreign policy doctrine. Its unwavering support for Palestinian independence, participation in the Non-Aligned Movement, and regional leadership in ASEAN illustrate how ontological security underpins diplomatic consistency and domestic legitimacy. However, the same identity-driven approach can also create friction between ideological commitments and pragmatic interests, particularly in managing relations with major powers such as China and the United States. The study concludes that while ontological security provides coherence and credibility, it also demands adaptive strategies. It recommends identity-sensitive diplomacy, coherent narrative management, strategic flexibility, and inclusive public engagement to ensure that Indonesia’s foreign policy remains balanced between identity preservation and practical global engagement.

The phenomenon of Indonesian migrant workers reflects a critical nexus between labor migration, international law, and sustainable development. Indonesia is among the world’s largest labor-sending countries, with millions of its citizens employed abroad, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. Remittances from migrant workers provide substantial economic benefits for the state and households, yet these workers often face systemic vulnerabilities including exploitation, discrimination, and inadequate legal protection. This article examines the extent to which international law and Indonesia’s national legal framework safeguard the rights of migrant workers while contributing to the realization of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. International instruments such as the 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and their Families (ICRMW) and relevant ILO conventions provide comprehensive standards, but their effectiveness is constrained by limited ratification from key receiving states. At the domestic level, Indonesia has enacted Law No. 18 of 2017 on the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (UU PPMI), which represents a shift toward state responsibility and alignment with international human rights norms. Nevertheless, implementation challenges ranging from weak enforcement and bureaucratic overlap to insufficient diplomatic support abroad remain significant. The findings suggest that while Indonesia has made normative progress, practical protection is hindered by governance gaps and lack of cooperation from host countries. Strengthening enforcement, regional collaboration, and worker empowerment are crucial to ensuring that Indonesian migrant workers achieve genuine “decent work” as envisioned by SDG 8.

The relationship between Indonesia and Singapore has deep historical roots, tracing back to the ancient kingdoms. In the 7th century, the Strait of Singapore was part of the Srivijaya Empire. Later, in 1365, the Javanese hymn Nagarakretagama, written during the Majapahit era, mentioned a settlement on the island called Temasek, highlighting the long-standing connection between the two regions. Trade between Indonesia and Singapore has grown significantly over the years, reaching S$36 billion (US$29.32 billion), with Singapore being the largest foreign investor in Indonesia, having invested US$1.14 billion across 142 projects. Additionally, trade between the two nations surged to approximately $68 billion in 2010, with Indonesia's non-oil and gas exports to Singapore reaching their highest levels. The two countries have established robust cooperation in various sectors, including tourism, security, counter-terrorism, and environmental concerns. However, the relationship is not without its challenges. One significant issue is Singapore's role as a haven for Indonesian corruptors, with many fugitives from corruption cases seeking refuge there. This has led to tensions, particularly regarding the extradition of individuals convicted of corruption. To address these challenges, both nations must enhance the implementation of bilateral agreements, especially in political and security matters. There is a need to accelerate the technical finalization of military training areas as part of the defense cooperation agreement. Additionally, executing the extradition agreement and updating the memorandum of understanding between the Attorneys General of both countries would be crucial steps in addressing these issues and improving bilateral relations. In conclusion, while Indonesia-Singapore relations are multifaceted, with both cooperation and challenges, mutual commitment to resolving issues through diplomatic and legal means will be key to strengthening their ties in the future.

Macron's visit also commemorated 75 years of diplomatic relations and a decade of strategic partnership between Indonesia and France. This meeting showed how bilateral diplomacy can trigger long-term transformation in various sectors. The partnership is part of extending the diplomatic relations between the two countries, which will be 100 years old in 2050.  Indonesia and France are developing strategic partnerships in various important sectors, ranging from defense, technology, agriculture, economy, to culture. Both countries have the same vision of world order. The strategic partnership strengthens their positions in facing global uncertainty with a total of 21 strategic agreements. The forms of cooperation and strategic agreements between Indonesia and France include: 1) Defense sector, for example, the Indonesian Ministry of Defense and the French Ministry of Armed Forces agreed to establish a strategic partnership related to the exchange and joint protection of confidential information in the defense sector, 2) Economic sector, both countries agreed to encourage more balanced trade and investment relations, including: (1). MoU between the National Nutrition Agency and Danone; (2). Danantara and Eramet; (3). Investment Agreement between PT RGE Indonesia and Total Energies; (4). Investment Agreement between PT Citra Bonang Indonesia and Lesaffre; (5). MoU between PT SMI, PT PLN, and HDF; (6). MoU between Bank Indonesia and Banque De France, 3) Indonesia and France agreed to encourage Palestinian independence. This is considered the only way to resolve the long conflict between Palestine and Israel. Humanity must be prioritized in order to realize peace in the region. Two State Solutions" or a two-state solution is the most diplomatic way out for Palestinian independence.

Rohingya refugees are an ethnic minority group from Myanmar seeking protection from persecution and violence. Their presence in the border region of Riau Province, Indonesia, poses humanitarian, security, and diplomatic challenges that require humane and internationally standard responses. This study aims to analyze the role of the Indonesian government, particularly the Riau Provincial Government, in handling Rohingya refugees from 2022 to 2024. The methodology used is a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. Primary data collection was conducted through interviews and observations, while secondary data came from official documents and journals related to the Rohingya refugee issue. Data analysis uses condensation, presentation, and conclusion-drawing techniques. This study finds that the role of the Indonesian government includes multilateral coordination, the implementation of humanitarian policies, human rights protection, health services, and refugee security, in accordance with international instruments and principles. In addition to multilateral cooperation, the role of non-state actors is also important in maintaining human security and meeting the needs of Rohingya refugees. This study contributes to understanding the roles of the government and related actors, while also serving as an important reference for finding humane and constructive solutions to the Rohingya refugee issue on the Riau border.

The development of digital technology has a major impact on the dynamics of national security, especially more complex cyber threats. The purpose of this study is to analyze Indonesian diplomacy in combating digital threats as part of efforts to strengthen non-military defense systems. The method used is a qualitative approach through literature research from various literary sources, reports, and secondary data. The results of the study show that while Indonesia is exposed to increasing cyber attacks, regulations on digital safety infrastructure and regulations are still weak compared to other ASEAN countries. The conclusion of this study is the importance of strategic and sustainable digital diplomacy, not just technically. The novelty of this study lies in cybersecurity threats as an analytical tool to assess the integration of digital diplomatic indicators, sensitivity to the system, and the effectiveness of Indonesian diplomacy in the growth of global cybersecurity.

Humanitarian intervention is often seen as an effort to protect civilians from human rights violations, but it often clashes with the principle of state sovereignty in international law. This research evaluates the alignment of humanitarian intervention with the values of Pancasila as an ethical and moral footing in international policy. The research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach; data is obtained from a literature study that includes academic documents, journals, reference books, and diplomatic reports, then analyzed descriptively-analytically to reveal the views of Pancasila in the practice of international law. The results show that although intervention has noble aims, its implementation often collides with the principle of non-intervention and the principle of state sovereignty. The values of Pancasila, especially fair and civilized humanity and social justice, can be used as a moral foundation to assess the legitimacy of intervention, but its application in international norms is still constrained by political interests and power imbalances between states. The conclusion of this study is that Pancasila offers a potential ethical framework for more just humanitarian interventions, but diplomacy and policy advocacy efforts are needed to strengthen the position of developing countries in formulating international norms that respect sovereignty while protecting human rights.

The Geopolitics 5.0 era has introduced a new paradigm in which artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology, and global power dynamics are reshaping traditional diplomatic practices. As a nation rooted in the Pancasila ideology, Indonesia faces complex challenges in upholding its principles of humanity, unity, and social justice amid increasingly competitive geopolitical shifts. This research aims to analyze the relevance of Pancasila as a strategic framework for Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts in responding to the challenges of Geopolitics 5.0, while formulating policy recommendations aligned with national values. The study employs a qualitative approach, analyzing content related to Indonesia’s foreign policy, government documents, and recent diplomatic case studies. Supporting data is drawn from academic literature, archives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and reports from global think tanks. The findings demonstrate that Pancasila serves as a critical foundation for shaping Indonesia’s adaptive diplomacy, particularly through: (1) soft power strategies rooted in cultural and creative economic assets, (2) digital diplomacy that prioritizes cyber sovereignty and freedom, and (3) leadership in multilateral forums. Pancasila’s values not only remain relevant but also provide Indonesia with a strategic advantage in building principle-driven diplomacy in the Geopolitics 5.0 era. Policy recommendations include strengthening digital human resource capacity, fostering collaborative technology research, and advancing public diplomacy initiatives.

The Senkaku Islands dispute involves Japan, China, and Taiwan on the basis of historical claims, international law, and strategic and economic interests. The strategic value of this region increases along with the potential of natural resources and the importance of maritime routes in the East China Sea. The main problems in this research are, first, how is the chronology of the Senkaku Islands dispute, and second, how is the analysis of international law on the sovereignty claims of each party. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method, which is based on a literature study of international legal documents, scientific journals, and various related official sources. The results show that Japan controls the Senkaku Islands de facto and strengthens its claim based on the principle of effectiveness. In contrast, China and Taiwan make claims based on the history of the Ming and Qing Dynasties but have no actual control over the territory. The dispute is further complicated by the United States' security support for Japan, as well as increased maritime and military patrol activities around the disputed area. Efforts to resolve the dispute through the International Court of Justice have been stymied by Japan's refusal to recognize the dispute and China's caution in taking the case to international law. Overall, the dispute has not only a legal dimension, but also reflects the sharp geopolitical competition in the East Asian region. Resolving this dispute requires a flexible diplomatic approach, given that formal legal channels are difficult to pursue. Multilateral dialog is the key to preventing conflict escalation that could threaten regional stability.

The geopolitical relations between China and Afghanistan have undergone significant transformations in recent years, shaped by regional dynamics, security imperatives, economic cooperation, and strategic interests. As a neighboring country with extensive global influence, China has adopted a pragmatic approach toward Afghanistan, seeking to balance its economic investments with security considerations. This study explores the historical trajectory of Sino-Afghan relations, identifies the key factors influencing their bilateral interactions, and examines Afghanistan’s strategic importance within the broader regional ambitions of China—particularly in relation to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It also briefly investigates China's role in Afghanistan’s political landscape following 2001 and analyzes its evolving stance after the Taliban's return to power in 2021. Furthermore, the research highlights the economic, security, and diplomatic dimensions of the two countries’ relationship and evaluates how Beijing’s strategic calculations in Afghanistan align with its broader regional objectives—especially concerning security stability (counterterrorism) and economic expansion. From a geopolitical standpoint, this paper offers insights into the long-term implications of China’s engagement with Afghanistan and its broader impact on the regional power dynamics, using a descriptive-analytical methodology.

Genocide is one of the most serious crimes in international law, regulated by various legal instruments such as the 1948 Genocide Convention and the 1998 Rome Statute. This crime involves the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a group based on race, ethnicity, religion, or nationality. This study aims to analyze the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in enforcing genocide law and identify the obstacles in applying individual criminal responsibility. Additionally, mechanisms for resolving genocide disputes through peaceful and legal means in international law are discussed. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method, analyzing international legal documents and case studies. The results show that although the ICC has jurisdiction to try genocide cases, law enforcement processes often face political challenges, particularly the UN Security Council veto power and state sovereignty. In conclusion, international efforts to address genocide require stronger cross-country cooperation and enhanced legal mechanisms to overcome political and diplomatic challenges.

This study examines the complex challenges surrounding criminal acts perpetrated against Indonesian migrant workers and evaluates the effectiveness of current law enforcement mechanisms and legal protection frameworks. The research analyzes both domestic and international legal instruments designed to protect migrant workers, with particular focus on their implementation and practical outcomes. Through a comprehensive assessment of case studies, legal documents, and enforcement data, this study reveals significant gaps between established legal protections and their actual enforcement. Key findings indicate that Indonesian migrant workers frequently face various forms of criminal exploitation, including physical abuse, fraud, human trafficking, and unlawful confinement, while working abroad. The study identifies several systemic barriers to effective legal protection, including jurisdictional complexities, limited access to legal resources, inadequate bilateral agreements, and weak enforcement mechanisms in both sending and receiving countries. Furthermore, the research highlights the critical role of government agencies, diplomatic missions, and non-governmental organizations in providing legal assistance to victimized workers. The study concludes by proposing concrete recommendations for strengthening the legal protection framework, enhancing international cooperation in law enforcement, improving access to justice for migrant workers, and developing more robust preventive measures against criminal exploitation.

As time progresses, language has become one of the diplomatic tools used in the international arena. In South Korea, interest in the Indonesian language has been growing, as evidenced by the increasing number of students showing interest in learning it each year. The author identifies an urgency to monitor the perceptions formed when foreign nationals learn Indonesian—in this context, South Korean society. This research seeks to elaborate on the cultural perceptions that emerge with the presence of the Indonesian language in South Korea. The aim of this study is to understand how the construction of cultural perceptions takes shape in the minds of South Koreans when they learn Indonesian. A descriptive qualitative research method was used, with data collection techniques in the form of interviews. The findings of this study indicate a shift in cultural perceptions of Indonesia, with Indonesian language learning fostering curiosity about Indonesian culture. Ultimately, this indirectly plays a role in promoting Indonesian culture. This shift is evident both in the mindset and in social interactions within the student community learning Indonesian.

This article takes an in-depth look at Ms. Retno Marsudi's successful career in diplomacy, as well as the factors that played a role in this achievement, while providing concrete examples of the practice of diplomacy. Using a descriptive research methodology, it explores theories of global diplomacy and the practice of Indonesian diplomacy. The research findings confirm the central role played by Ms. Retno Marsudi in building Indonesia's diplomatic relations with other countries. She is known for her strong leadership, communication skills, and wisdom in handling sensitive issues. In addition, this article also illustrates how Indonesia's free and active foreign policy is realized through effective diplomatic efforts, especially in achieving peace between Palestine and Israel. In the global context, Ms. Retno Marsudi's diplomatic work reflects Indonesia's commitment to play an active role in fighting for international peace and justice. In conclusion, Ms. Retno Marsudi's career journey not only provides inspiration, but also provides valuable lessons in the practice of diplomacy that has a positive impact globally.

Countries in the Indo-Pacific region are increasingly actively using digital diplomacy to build relationships Countries use digital diplomacy by referring to foreign regulations and policies used for countries in conducting multilateral diplomacy, namely the 1964 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Apart from the main guidelines that have arisen, the main problem arises, namely in the practice of international relations, is the lack of regulations and arrangements for digital diplomacy practices for middle power countries such as Indonesia who want to strengthen their role in supporting their country's defense and security. By using the type of normative legal research and the analysis approach, this study produces findings that the need for regulations and arrangements for digital diplomacy that can support Indonesia's role in strengthening the country's defense and security