This past December, the Robert Schuman Centre hosted the first EU-Indonesia Track 1.5 Dialogue in Florence. Organised by the European External Action Service and Indonesia’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Kemlu), the event aimed to strengthen EU-Indonesia relations and complement official government channels.
With the overarching goal of enhancing bilateral ties and supporting existing official government channels (Track 1 diplomacy), the dialogue brought together approximately 40 key representatives, including ambassadors, senior officials from relevant ministries, academics, and members of European and Indonesian civil society. Participants explored each other’s viewpoints in a structured yet informal setting, fostering an intellectually open policy discourse. Key topics included global security challenges in the evolving international order, geopolitical and geo-economic dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and Asia-Pacific, opportunities to enhance EU-Indonesia economic ties, and potential collaboration on reforming global governance.
Participants recognised the need for closer EU-Indonesia cooperation to address global challenges and contribute to international stability. Discussions highlighted the shift away from the traditionally described liberal, rules-based order, with both parties emphasising that shaping a new global order should not be left solely to the US and China.
In the absence of concerted multilateralism, it was argued that Indonesia and the EU must forge a common commitment to promoting constructive and consistent approaches to peace, security, and prosperity. Participants stressed the importance of ensuring their voices are heard in global reform discussions.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to fostering mutual understanding and actionable collaboration. Informal platforms like the Track 1.5 Dialogue were recognised as crucial for addressing shared challenges and strengthening bilateral relations.