Indonesia Seeks Stronger Global South Roles Through Bandung Conference Legacy

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s role as a bridge for the Global South is gaining renewed attention, with analysts highlighting how the country continues to draw on the legacy of the 1955 Bandung Conference (Asia-Africa Conference) to shape its diplomatic agenda.

Beyond symbolism, observers argue that Indonesia's engagement is increasingly tied to pressing issues such as global debt and development inequality.

“Although Indonesia’s use of the Asia-Africa Conference legacy has not always been consistent, it often raises major concerns like debt and inequality within the framework of solidarity,” International Relations analyst Andrea Abdul Rahman Azzqy said in Jakarta on Monday, April 20, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Andrea noted that energy transition cooperation remains heavily influenced by advanced economies, leaving developing nations with limited room to maneuver. This dynamic, he argued, presents an opportunity for countries like Indonesia to strengthen their capacity -- not merely following existing frameworks but actively shaping global rules and policies.

He emphasized that Indonesia’s current position is strategic, serving as a bridge for Global South interests in international forums. This role, he said, should evolve from symbolic gestures into more concrete contributions. “Indonesia’s position today stands out more as a bridge,” Andrea remarked.

Looking ahead, he pointed to the importance of consistent diplomacy under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership. Such consistency, Andrea suggested, will be crucial in bolstering Indonesia’s credibility and expanding its influence on the global stage. ***