United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is in Indonesia from October 17 to 19, a visit aimed at bolstering multilateral cooperation and honoring the nation’s significant role in UN peacekeeping efforts. This trip underscores Indonesia’s commitment to international peacekeeping, with over 50,000 personnel deployed globally as of February 2026.
During his visit, Guterres will engage with personnel at Indonesia’s peacekeeping mission training center. These individuals are currently preparing for deployment to the Central African Republic as part of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSCA). His visit also includes a solemn tribute to Indonesian peacekeepers who have died in service under the UN banner.
This visit is especially poignant following the deaths of four Indonesian peacekeepers with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon earlier in March and April 2026. Preliminary reports from the UN suggest that one attack was linked to Israeli tank fire, while another involved an improvised explosive device believed to be planted by Hezbollah.
Guterres is scheduled to deliver a speech at Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, focusing on the future of multilateralism. His address will highlight the critical importance of international cooperation amid ongoing global conflicts and challenges, reinforcing the UN’s message of peace and collaboration.
Indonesia is currently aspiring to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029–2030 term. The Security Council holds the responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, including the authorization of peacekeeping missions and the imposition of sanctions.
This visit not only acknowledges Indonesia’s longstanding contributions to peacekeeping but also strengthens the ties between the UN and Indonesia as both entities strive for a more peaceful and cooperative global community.