09 June 2015
WP293 | Indonesia’s Defence Diplomacy: Harnessing the Hedging Strategy against Regional Uncertainties
Abstract
Indonesia has been increasingly susceptible to recent geopolitical developments. Along with the rapid pace of regional arms modernisation and unresolved territorial disputes, it begins to ponder the impact of emerging great power rivalry to the country’s strategic interests. However, rather than pursuing a robust military build-up, Indonesian policymakers asserts that diplomacy is the country’s first line of defence. This paper argues that Indonesia’s defence diplomacy serves two agenda of hedging strategy — strategic engagement and military modernisation. This way, Indonesian defence and security officials seek to moderate the impact of geopolitical changes whilst maintaining the country’s defensive ability against regional uncertainties.
About the Author
Iis Gindarsah is a Researcher in the Department of Politics and International Relations at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta. His research interest includes military technological innovation, civil-military relations and regional security complex in East Asia. Gigin has published essays and commentaries on these issues in edited volumes, peer-reviewed journals and media outlets.
Abstract
Indonesia has been increasingly susceptible to recent geopolitical developments. Along with the rapid pace of regional arms modernisation and unresolved territorial disputes, it begins to ponder the impact of emerging great power rivalry to the country’s strategic interests. However, rather than pursuing a robust military build-up, Indonesian policymakers asserts that diplomacy is the country’s first line of defence. This paper argues that Indonesia’s defence diplomacy serves two agenda of hedging strategy — strategic engagement and military modernisation. This way, Indonesian defence and security officials seek to moderate the impact of geopolitical changes whilst maintaining the country’s defensive ability against regional uncertainties.
About the Author
Iis Gindarsah is a Researcher in the Department of Politics and International Relations at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta. His research interest includes military technological innovation, civil-military relations and regional security complex in East Asia. Gigin has published essays and commentaries on these issues in edited volumes, peer-reviewed journals and media outlets.
