Redefining Border Security: Indonesia^s Health Diplomacy Perspective in the Post-Pandemic Era Ludiro Madu (a*), Aryanta Nugraha (a), Yudhy Widya Kusumo (b)
a) Department of International Relations, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional ^Veteran^ Yogyakarta, Indonesia
*ludiro.madu[at]upnyk.ac.id
b) Department of Public Relations, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional ^Veteran^ Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Abstract
This study examines the redefinition of border security in Indonesia through the lens of health diplomacy in the post-pandemic era, with a focus on Indonesia^s engagement with Timor-Leste. The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed a paradigm shift in border management, necessitating the integration of health security considerations into traditional border control frameworks. Using a qualitative approach combining in-depth interviews and document analysis, this research investigates how Indonesia is navigating the complex interplay between health imperatives, conventional security concerns, and diplomatic strategies in its border regions. The study employs a theoretical framework that synthesizes multi-track diplomacy and human security perspectives to analyze the evolving dynamics of border health security. Findings reveal a significant transformation in Indonesia^s border security paradigm, characterized by increased investments in health infrastructure, revised border crossing protocols, and enhanced bilateral cooperation with Timor-Leste on health security matters. The research contributes to the broader understanding of how middle powers in the Global South are adapting their border security and diplomatic practices in response to emerging global health challenges. It also introduces the concept of ^adaptive health diplomacy^ to capture the dynamic nature of Indonesia^s diplomatic engagement in border health security.
Keywords: Border Security- Health Diplomacy- Covid-19, Indonesia- Timor Leste
