Indonesia has long been a cornerstone of UN peacekeeping operations, a relationship now entering its 76th year. The recent 75th anniversary of Indonesia’s UN membership and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations itself underscored a continued commitment, yet simultaneously revealed significant shifts in both the operational demands and the broader geopolitical context of UN deployments. The celebration in Jakarta highlighted Indonesia’s position as the fifth-largest Troop Contributing Country (TCC) – with over 2,700 personnel currently serving in missions across Africa and the Middle East – while also prompting critical reflection on the long-term sustainability of this role within a rapidly changing global security architecture. The event, themed “Safeguarding the World, Weaving Harmony,” showcased Indonesia’s contributions while simultaneously presenting a platform to examine the challenges and opportunities associated with its ongoing engagement.
The historical context of Indonesia’s participation in UN peacekeeping dates back to 1957, with its initial contribution to the UN Emergency Force in Sinai. This initial involvement, largely driven by Indonesia’s nascent post-independence aspirations for international recognition and a commitment to multilateralism, has evolved over seven decades. During the Cold War, Indonesia’s contributions were frequently tied to regional stability, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Post-Cold War, the focus broadened to include missions in Africa, responding to complex conflicts requiring a multi-faceted approach encompassing not just military intervention but also development assistance and civil society engagement. According to a 2024 report by the International Crisis Group, “Indonesia’s deployment rates have been consistently high, driven by a combination of domestic political considerations and a genuine desire to contribute to global peace.”
Key stakeholders remain largely consistent. The Indonesian government, driven by a national foreign policy framework prioritizing stability and regional security, continues to view UN peacekeeping as a crucial element of its international standing. The Indonesian Military (TNI), particularly the PMPP TNI (Indonesian Peacekeeping Mission Centre), handles the logistical and operational aspects of deployments, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs manages diplomatic relations and oversees the overall strategy. However, the dynamics have shifted. The rise of non-state actors, the increasing complexity of conflicts (often characterized by proxy wars and humanitarian crises), and the emergence of new threats – including terrorism and cyber warfare – demand a recalibration of Indonesia’s peacekeeping approach. “The nature of conflict has fundamentally changed,” explains Dr. Amelia Putri, a senior researcher at the Institute for Strategic Studies and Policy Analysis, “requiring a shift from traditional ‘boots on the ground’ operations to more sophisticated, integrated approaches.”
Recent deployments reveal this evolving strategy. Indonesia maintains a significant presence in MONUSCO (Democratic Republic of the Congo), largely focused on supporting the Congolese army against armed groups and contributing to stabilization efforts. Similarly, its involvement in UNIFIL in Lebanon reflects Indonesia’s longstanding commitment to regional security and its role as a bridge between regional powers. However, operations in South Sudan and the Central African Republic demonstrate a greater emphasis on community development, women’s empowerment, and building local capacity, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The Indonesian approach, often described as “human-centric,” incorporates local engagement and recognizes the importance of long-term stability. Data from the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations indicates that Indonesian peacekeepers frequently prioritize civilian protection and engagement, reflecting a growing awareness of the “protection of civilians” doctrine – a cornerstone of modern peacekeeping.
Looking ahead, several challenges and opportunities present themselves. Indonesia’s commitment to UN peacekeeping remains, but its long-term sustainability is intrinsically linked to Indonesia’s domestic political landscape and its economic development. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has diverted considerable international attention and resources, potentially impacting future peacekeeping commitments. Furthermore, the increasing costs of UN peacekeeping operations – both financial and in terms of personnel – are becoming a significant constraint. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), “funding for UN peacekeeping is under increasing pressure, raising concerns about the future viability of operations.”
The recently signed Indonesia-UN Development Cooperation Framework (2026 – 2030) is designed to address these concerns by deepening collaboration on development issues, including climate action, digital transformation, and human development. This framework presents an opportunity for Indonesia to leverage its peacekeeping experience to contribute to sustainable development outcomes in conflict-affected areas. However, realizing this potential hinges on effectively integrating peacekeeping and development efforts, a challenge that requires coordinated planning and resource allocation. The “UN@80: Shared Lives, Shared Future” exhibition, featuring over 200 stories of the UN’s impact globally, serves as a powerful reminder of the agency’s enduring relevance – but also underscores the need for ongoing innovation and adaptation to meet the challenges of a complex and interconnected world. Ultimately, Indonesia’s role in UN peacekeeping – a legacy of 75 years – will be defined by its ability to navigate this evolving landscape and remain a steadfast contributor to global security and stability.