The Indonesian Diplomacy During Joko Widodo's Presidency

Abstract

When Joko Widodo elected as the new Indonesian President in 2014, the concept of "down to earth diplomacy" or "for-people diplomacy" was introduces. The diplomacy would focus to people’s benefit, rather than just to create a positive international image. This approach had reflected the President’s acknowledgment on the challenge of complexity of Indonesian domestic issues which need to be resolved. For example, the policy of the sending domestic migrant workers to industrialized, semi-industrialized, and oil rich countries in the Gulf Regions, which often challenge Indonesia’s bilateral relations with receiving countries. The issues related to migrant workers have also often undermined Indonesian image overseas. The President committed to enhance the protection of Indonesian citizens and others legal entities. These policies are part of his commitment to “provide solution, bridge differences, and to open opportunities”, for the benefit of the people. Indonesian diplomacy also proclaimed would implement more firm negotiation especially related to borders issues with neighboring countries. As the biggest world archipelago, Indonesia is inevitable and continuously challenges by security problems in the border areas. Further diplomatic focus would be emphasized on building a positive image as a maritime fulcrum. To demonstrate diplomatic strength, a strict law regarding maritime issue would be implemented, such as illegal fishery. Another aim would be to increase the regional and international cooperation in maritime infrastructure, energy, fishery and the protection of the marine environment. Last but not least is increasing the country’s economic diplomacy, by developing export and attracting investments. Diplomacy would be analyzed based on its Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat (SWOT). Further analyzes would also determining internal and external factors that contribute to the success and failures of diplomacy.