On January 22, 2026, Indonesia announced its participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ (BoP) initiative led by US President Donald Trump. The move, initially framed as a platform to address the post-Gaza conflict, has sparked debate due to Indonesia’s longstanding commitment to Palestinian independence and the US$1 billion (approximately Rp 16.8 trillion) contribution linked to membership.
Expert Insight:
Reactions to the decision have been polarized, with some arguing This proves a pragmatic move for Jakarta, while others express concern that it could dilute Indonesia’s established foreign policy principles.
Did You Know?
Indonesia’s entry into the BoP aligns with President Prabowo’s domestic strategy of building broad coalitions. His gotong royong (mutual self-help) vision has led to a dominant position for his Gerindra Party and the Advance Indonesia Coalition (KIM) in the national legislature, the DPR. The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has positioned itself as a ‘balancer’ rather than an opposition force.
President Prabowo has expressed a realist view of international politics, stating that acting independently means being “on our own.” This suggests a shift toward a more transactional strategy focused on proximity and access, though not necessarily a complete abandonment of Indonesia’s longstanding bebas aktif (independent and active) foreign policy principle.
Prabowo favors a personalized style of foreign policymaking, relying on a small circle of loyalists and taking a more centralized approach compared to his predecessor, President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo, often sidelining Indonesia’s conventional diplomatic corps, Kemlu.
The decision to join the BoP may be linked to ongoing trade negotiations with the US. President Trump has reportedly used tariff threats to pressure countries to join the Board, with France facing potential tariffs on wine if it does not sign up. While no such ultimatum has been reported to Jakarta, Indonesia’s vulnerability to tariffs provides an incentive to avoid confrontation with Washington.
What May Happen Next
Participation in the BoP could provide Indonesia with increased access to the US and potentially lower friction during trade negotiations. However, the initiative’s future is uncertain, as the Board is a Trump-centered platform with significant discretion granted to the chair. Should the initiative’s purpose change, Indonesia risks being drawn into unforeseen controversies.
Jakarta also risks its international reputation as a voice of the Global South and advocate for Palestinian self-determination. The decision could lead to domestic backlash if the BoP fails to produce tangible results, particularly as future electoral cycles approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ‘Board of Peace’?
The ‘Board of Peace’ is an initiative led by US President Donald Trump, initially intended to oversee the rebuilding of the Gaza Strip, but its charter appears to extend beyond the Palestinian territory.
What is the financial commitment associated with joining the Board of Peace?
Membership in the Board of Peace is linked to a US$1 billion contribution, equivalent to approximately Rp 16.8 trillion.
How does President Prabowo’s domestic policy align with the decision to join the Board of Peace?
The decision reflects President Prabowo’s ‘one logic, two arenas’ approach, aiming to achieve political consolidation by minimizing opposition and maximizing inclusion both domestically and internationally, mirroring his preference for large coalitions and reframing issues as peace initiatives.
Given these factors, will Indonesia’s participation in the Board of Peace ultimately strengthen its position on the global stage, or will it come at the cost of its long-held principles and international standing?
