Indonesian Diplomacy in Resolving the Rohingya Conflict in Myanmar During the Presidency of Joko Widodo (2014-2019)

Abstract

This study aims to examine the direction and foreign policy of Indonesia under the President Joko Widodo administration (2014-2019). Specifically, this study analysed the diplomacy conducted by President Joko Widodo during his first term in office to address the Rohingya crisis. The research used qualitative and descriptive methods with secondary data sources, such as literature from books, documents, journals, newspapers, magazines, and online articles. This study employed descriptive analysis techniques. The collected data were analysed and triangulated. This study found, firstly, a fundamental difference in the direction of Indonesian foreign policy under President Joko Widodo compared to the previous era, namely the administration of President SBY. While SBY's foreign policy was more high-politics, President Joko Widodo's foreign policy was more inward-looking. However, this did not mean that the international role has been neglected; rather, that role—particularly regarding peace efforts—is now exercised more selectively, with a focus on areas directly impacting Indonesia's interests and through a more proactive engagement aimed at achieving concrete results. Secondly, this study identified the reasons behind Indonesia's intensified efforts—under President Jokowi's administration—to help resolve the Rohingya conflict in Myanmar. Beyond the fact that the Rohingya issue directly affects regional and national stability and security, the sensitivity of the matter is also a key consideration, given that the victims of the conflict are predominantly Rohingya Muslims. By employing a combination of bilateral, multilateral, and humanitarian diplomacy, Indonesia has successfully gained the Myanmar government's trust, enabling deeper involvement in the local peace process.