Mr Rizky Ihsan1
1Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
Biography:
Ihsan is a PhD candidate at the School of Government and International Relations, Griffith University. His research focuses on Indonesia's Post-Reformasi China policy, emphasising the interplay between elite perceptions and public opinion in shaping foreign policy. Building upon Neoclassical Realism as a theoretical framework and qualitative methods, his work explores Indonesia's strategic responses under different administrations. Ihsan holds BA from Parahyangan Catholic University and a master’s from Universitas Indonesia. With years of teaching experience, he's particularly interested in foreign policy analysis.
Abstract:
This study examines Indonesia’s post-reformasi foreign policy towards China, with a particular focus on Joko Widodo’s administration. It examines how elite and public perceptions influence foreign policy decision-making, emphasizing the interplay between elite's threat perceptions and public opinion on China’s economic opportunities. Grounded in neoclassical realism, the research argues that Indonesia’s China policy under Widodo is shaped by the dynamic relationship between elite perceptions and public opinion.
Using qualitative methods, the study incorporates semi-structured interviews with Indonesian foreign policy elites, researchers, and experts, alongside content analysis of relevant literature. These approaches provide nuanced insights into how Indonesian policymakers and society perceive China’s rise. The thesis also proposes a theoretical model that highlights the critical role of elite perceptions and public opinion in shaping foreign policy outcomes.
The findings offer a deeper understanding of the complexities in Indonesia-China relations and aim to inform strategies for managing potential tensions and conflicts between the two nations. By shedding light on the influence of domestic factors on foreign policy, this study contributes to broader discussions on Indonesia’s strategic engagement with major powers in the post-reformasi era.