Paradiplomacy in Indonesia

This chapter looks at paradiplomacy in Indonesia, where local governments engage in international relations despite the country being a unitary state. With over 270 million people and a rich mix of cultures, Indonesia has seen its local governments become more active in global affairs, especially after the political changes that began in the late 1990s. The chapter outlines the history of paradiplomacy in Indonesia, dividing it into two main periods: The Pre-Reformation Era, where Indonesia was notably centralized, and the Reformation Era, when decentralization prevailed and the local governments started to take on more international roles. It discusses the laws allowing these local governments to work with foreign partners while aligning with national interests. The chapter also highlights their challenges, such as limited resources and bureaucratic hurdles, but points out exciting opportunities for the future of Indonesia. This chapter explores how paradiplomacy allows local governments in unitary states, like Indonesia, to play a meaningful role in addressing global issues.