The Workshop on Managing Potential Conflict in the South China Sea provides an informal platform for dialogue and confidence-building among regional stakeholders. However, declining participation, political posturing, and limited non-governmental involvement have reduced its relevance. Transitioning the Workshop into a fully Track Two diplomacy platform can revitalize its role by establishing a…
The increasing global demand for critical minerals and the vulnerability of their supply chains have intensified geopolitical competition among major economies seeking to secure access to these strategic resources. In this context, Indonesia’s critical mineral resources, particularly nickel, create opportunities to strengthen its position in the global supply chain. This study discusses Indon…
Indonesia has diverse culinary traditions and abundant spice resources that provide opportunities for strengthening cultural and economic cooperation with African countries. African societies also have strong traditions of using spices and flavorful ingredients, creating potential for the promotion of Indonesian gastronomy in the region. This study discusses the opportunities and challenges of …
Africa’s growing working-age population and increasing adoption of digital technologies provide opportunities for strengthening Indonesia’s diplomatic outreach through social media. The document discusses the use of social media by Indonesian Missions in Morocco, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and Mozambique, focusing on their official accounts and the role of digital public diplomacy in en…
Indonesia’s raw materials downstream policy, particularly the prohibition on nickel ore exports and the domestic processing requirement, has faced challenges following a dispute filed by the European Union at the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WTO Panel found that the measures were inconsistent with the WTO principle concerning the general elimination of quantitative restrictions, creati…
The role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (MOFA RI) in ASEAN’s economic pillar is examined through its involvement in Economic and Technical Cooperation (ECOTECH) under ASEAN+1 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Indonesia’s participation in ECOTECH cooperation faces several challenges, including limited awareness of available funds, difficulties in securing partici…
Youth engagement can strengthen ASEAN-China cooperation by incorporating young people into formal regional mechanisms and high-level policy processes. The adoption of a leaders’ statement can provide political commitment and establish a clearer framework for youth participation in ASEAN-China relations. Greater youth involvement can support future leadership, innovation, and regional stabilit…
Indonesia, as the world’s fourth-largest coffee producer, faces challenges in strengthening its coffee industry, including the absence of a cohesive national strategy, declining plantation areas, and stringent trade barriers. The country produces high-quality Robusta and Arabica coffee, including specialty varieties such as Kopi Luwak and single-origin coffees from Gayo, Mandailing, and Toraj…
Water diplomacy can become a strategic foreign policy priority by strengthening sustainable water governance, regional cooperation, and international engagement. Establishing an Inter-Agency Working Group on Water Issues can improve coordination, policy coherence, and monitoring across bilateral, regional, and multilateral forums. A clear Plan of Action and Roadmap can further guide cross-secto…