Responding to an article by Philips Vermonte in Harian Kompas, a lecturer in International Relations at Catholic Parahyangan University, Idil Syawfi, S.IP., M.Si., argues that the current global situation reflects a strengthening of anarchy within the international system due to the escalation of various geopolitical conflicts. He emphasizes that while anarchy is a commonly accepted condition across different approaches in Hubungan Internasional, the key difference lies in how states respond to it. In this regard, Idil highlights that the foreign policy of Donald Trump does not fully reflect realist principles, as it tends to generate instability rather than maintain an order that benefits the hegemon.
Furthermore, Idil argues that in an increasingly uncertain international system, states with limited capabilities must prioritize rational and pragmatic approaches. For Indonesia, this entails optimizing its “free and active” foreign policy in a flexible manner, strengthening its strategic position amid great power rivalry such as that between the United States and China, and building strategic autonomy through the diversification of partnerships. Therefore, Idil asserts that realism remains relevant not as a justification for disorder, but as a framework for understanding global realities objectively and safeguarding the continuity of national interests.
For further reading, please refer to the following link.