South-South Cooperation and Indonesia's National Interests

Abstract

South-South Cooperation (SSC) is one of the outcomes of the Ten Bandung Principles agreement which became the basis for the Non-Aligned Movement. As one of the initiators of the Non-Aligned Movement, Indonesia views SSC as being in line with the spirit of the Ten Bandung Principles and helping developing countries. This article aims to provide an understanding of how SSC can be used to achieve Indonesia's national interests as well as what challenges should be considered in its implementation. It argues that the Indonesian government utilises South-South Cooperation as a strategy for achieving its national interests. By using a qualitative research method and Donald E. Nuechterlein's concept of national interests, this study found that SSC is indeed used to advance Indonesia's national interests. These interests align with the Indonesian Dream 2015-2085 vision of becoming an independent country, the most influential nation in the Asia-Pacific region, and the center of the world's economic barometer. The SSC can also be used as a tool for Indonesia to contribute to the world order.