Indonesia as a Middle Power in Global Geopolitics - Center for Geopolitic and Geostrategic Studies

INDONESIA, as the largest archipelagic country in the world, has strategic potential that can shape the global geopolitical map.

Its strategic geographical position, located at the intersection of the Indonesian Ocean, the North Natuna Strait and the Pacific, makes Indonesia a crucial node in the networking of international relation.

The diversity of ethnicity, culture and religion in the country not only creates a solid foundation for inclusive diplomacy, but also allows Indonesia to establish harmonious relations with various countries. Including maintaining balance in the dynamics of international relations.

Additionally, in recent years, the Indonesian economy has experienced impressive growth. This places it as the largest economic power in Southeast Asia.

Thus, stable economic growth provides an opportunity for Indonesia to play an increasingly dominant role in global economic policy and contribute to the formation of international norms.

Apart from that, Indonesia’s capable military forces have been actively involved in peace operations at the international level. As well as military participation in resolving regional conflicts. This shows Indonesia’s commitment to global stability and world peace.

Addressing internal issues

In order to achieve its potential as a middle power in global geopolitics, Indonesia must somehow overcome internal problems. Solutions to these problems involve structural reforms, inclusive policies, and an active role in regional security.

By taking these steps, Indonesia can strengthen its position in the global geopolitical arena. And, it can make a positive contribution to world peace and progress.

To achieve this, internal problems such as corruption and slow bureaucracy require the Indonesian government to implement deep reforms.

Strong transparency, accountability and law enforcement measures go a long way to creating an environment conducive to growth and stability.

Meanwhile, in the economic sector, development policies that focus on inclusiveness are needed.

Economic empowerment programs in marginalized areas and increasing access to education and vocational training must be a solution to reduce economic disparities.

Also, Indonesia must play a more active role in maintaining regional security. This involves close cooperation with neighboring countries and active participation in regional security initiatives.

Diplomacy that builds trust and peaceful conflict resolution can strengthen Indonesia’s position. At the same time, it also strengthens effective foreign diplomacy.

Therefore, effective foreign diplomacy requires a focus on strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations. Utilizing international forums to promote national interests and build strategic partnerships can increase Indonesia’s diplomatic bargaining power.

Apart from that, Indonesia must develop policies that are responsive to global changes. This involves constant monitoring of world geopolitical and economic trends, as well as rapid adjustments to emerging dynamics.

Likewise, to deal with security issues, Indonesia must increase cooperation between security and intelligence institutions.

Investment in a deep understanding of the root causes of conflict, and proactive prevention efforts, can support domestic security stability.

At the same time, political stability must be strengthened. This can be strengthened through political reform, which strengthens democratic systems and transparency.

Encouraging public participation in the political process and building independent institutions will help create a dynamic and stable political environment.

Become a middle power

In this way, Indonesia has the potential to become a middle power in global geopolitics because this country has the fourth largest population in the world. With a large population, Indonesia has significant economic power.

Stable and sustainable economic growth can make Indonesia a major economic power in Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, Indonesia’s location at the intersection of the Indian and Pacific Oceans gives this country a strategic position.

The presence of the Malacca Strait makes Indonesia a major trade route and an important maritime transportation hub. This has a major influence on world shipping lanes and regional security.

Indonesia has the potential to become a middle power also because it is rich in natural resources, including oil, natural gas, mining and biodiversity.

Not to mention playing a strategic role in ASEAN, where Indonesia is an active member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). It clearly has an important role to play in shaping policy at regional level.

By strengthening regional cooperation and integration, Indonesia can increase its influence in the geopolitical context.

In addition, Indonesia’s diplomatic tradition tends to be neutral. This alone can help facilitate dialogue and cooperation between various global powers. Also, active involvement in international forums and regional organizations can strengthen Indonesia’s role in mediating conflicts and promoting peace.

As a country that is not bound by major military alliances, Indonesia has the potential to act as a balancing force in global geopolitics.

By maintaining military independence and a balanced foreign policy, Indonesia can become a respected power at the international level.

Balance of power at the global level

As a middle power, Indonesia has the opportunity to have a positive impact in the global competition between the United States (US) and the People’s Republic of China (China).

By maintaining its flexibility, taking advantage of its strategic position, and actively engaging in global issues, Indonesia can play a central role in shaping the future of world peace and stability.

Through wise leadership, Indonesia can become a constructive mediator. And a valuable partner for major countries in achieving a common goal: towards a safer and more sustainable world.

This is because the competition between the US and China has become the main focus in global geopolitical dynamics. In this context, Indonesia, with its dynamic and flexible position, must hold the potential to become a significant middle power.

As a middle power, Indonesia can play an important role in maintaining the balance of power. At the same time, it facilitates international dialogue and makes a real contribution to regional peace and stability.

Amidst the competition between the US and China, however, Indonesia has emerged as an entity with an interesting geopolitical position.

With a large population, a rapidly developing economy and a strategic geographical location, Indonesia has an attraction that can have a significant impact on global dynamics.

In addition, it also has a key role in ASEAN. Indonesia’s active membership in ASEAN provides a strong foundation for its central role.

ASEAN is a platform where Indonesia can play the role of mediator and facilitate regional cooperation, maintaining a balance of interests among ASEAN members.

Indonesia, as the guardian of stability in Southeast Asia, plays an important role in managing regional conflicts. The ability to mediate and encourage dialogue, can help prevent escalation of tensions between great powers.

In addition, Indonesia’s tradition of free-active diplomacy provides freedom to interact with various global powers – without being tied to certain military alliances.

This ability to maintain neutrality provides space for Indonesia to become a mediator and facilitator of international dialogue.

This includes Indonesia being actively involved in global issues such as climate change, sustainability and international peace. Positive contributions in these matters can strengthen Indonesia’s image as a responsible middle power.

Meanwhile, in global economic competition, Indonesia can become an attractive center of economic growth for the US and China.

With policies that support economic empowerment and fair trade, Indonesia can play a central role in managing economic tensions.

With its vast archipelago, Indonesia can become a major player in regional maritime security. Investments in military capacity and maritime cooperation can make a significant contribution to stability in the region.

Including strengthening the innovation and technology sectors, Indonesia can become an attractive partner for the US and China. Collaboration in technology development can increase Indonesia’s competitiveness and relevance at the global level.

Effective economic diplomacy and acceptance of foreign investment can increase Indonesia’s role as a middle power. Encouraging mutually beneficial economic partnerships can open up wider opportunities for cooperation and trade.

No less important, Indonesia plays a role in responding to social and humanitarian issues at the global level.

Active participation in humanitarian aid efforts – such as humanitarian aid for Palestine – clarifies Indonesia’s role in caring for humanity.

(Prof. Dr. Ermaya Suradinata, SH, MH, MS, is the former Director General of Social and Political Affairs of the Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs, Chancellor of IPDN, and former Governor of Lemhannas RI.)