United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is in Indonesia from October 17 to 19 to reinforce Jakarta’s role in global peacekeeping and multilateral cooperation. His visit highlights Indonesia’s significant contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations and comes at a time when the country is vying for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029–2030 term.
During his stay, Guterres is set to engage with personnel at Indonesia’s peacekeeping mission training center. These individuals are preparing for deployment to the Central African Republic as part of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSCA). This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of Indonesian peacekeepers to international missions, where they provide operational support and protect civilians.
Guterres will also honor the sacrifices of Indonesian peacekeepers who have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag. This includes a tribute to the four Indonesian peacekeepers killed in the UN Interim Force in Lebanon following attacks in March and April 2026. Preliminary UN investigations have suggested that these incidents were linked to Israeli tank fire and a possible explosive device planted by Hezbollah.
In addition to acknowledging Indonesia’s peacekeeping efforts, Guterres is expected to deliver a speech at the Indonesian Foreign Ministry focusing on the future of multilateralism. He will address the critical need for international cooperation in the face of ongoing conflicts and global challenges.
Indonesia has a storied history in UN peacekeeping, with over 50,000 of its personnel having served worldwide as of February 2026. The nation’s bid for a Security Council seat reflects its dedication to maintaining international peace and security, as the council plays a pivotal role in authorizing peacekeeping missions and imposing sanctions.