Governance Challenges in Bridging Theory and Practice: Indonesian Foreign Policy

Rifqi Mulya Nauli Siregar; Arry Bainus; Wawan Budi Darmawan

doi:10.47650/jglp.v7i1.1907

Rifqi Mulya Nauli Siregar Master’s Student of International Relations, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
Arry Bainus Department of International Relations, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
Wawan Budi Darmawan Department of International Relations, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47650/jglp.v7i1.1907

Keywords: Bridging the gap, Governance, Foreign policy, Indonesia, Evidence-based policy

Abstract

This paper examines challenges that Indonesia potentially faces in bridging theory-practice gaps in foreign policy formulation. Using qualitative library research methodology with document analysis based on George's (1993) theoretical framework, the research identifies six key potential challenges: cultural and epistemological divergences between academics and policymakers, language barriers, difficulties in accurately analyzing external actors, limitations of abstract theoretical models, and structural-institutional constraints within Indonesia's knowledge ecosystem. The findings suggest these challenges potentially result in less coherent and more reactive foreign policy decisions. This research contributes to the limited discourse on theory-practice gaps in Indonesian foreign policy studies, offering insights for strengthening evidence-based policy formulation in navigating complex regional dynamics. The paper argues that developing platforms for knowledge exchange, reforming institutional incentives, and strengthening analytical capacity within Indonesia's foreign policy bureaucracy are essential steps forward. Despite recent positive developments in institutional reform, fundamental challenges in epistemic culture and knowledge integration mechanisms still require special attention to enhance Indonesia's strategic positioning in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

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