United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is visiting Indonesia from October 17 to 19 to strengthen ties with Jakarta and acknowledge Indonesia’s substantial contributions to UN peacekeeping missions. A key highlight of his visit includes meeting with personnel at Indonesia’s peacekeeping mission training centre, where troops are preparing for deployment to the Central African Republic as part of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSCA). Additionally, Guterres will honor Indonesian peacekeepers who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty under the UN banner.

This visit comes in the wake of recent tragedies involving Indonesian peacekeepers. In March and April 2026, four Indonesian peacekeepers serving with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon lost their lives in attacks in southern Lebanon. Preliminary investigations by the UN suggest that these incidents were linked to Israeli tank fire and an improvised explosive device, allegedly planted by Hezbollah.

Guterres’ agenda also includes a speech at Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, where he is expected to address the future of multilateralism and the critical role of international cooperation in tackling ongoing conflicts and global challenges. This aligns with Indonesia’s long-standing commitment to peacekeeping, having contributed over 50,000 personnel to various international missions as of February 2026, focusing on operational support and civilian protection.

Indonesia’s dedication to peacekeeping efforts is also part of its broader diplomatic strategy. The nation is currently vying for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029–2030 term. If elected, Indonesia would join the 15-member council responsible for maintaining international peace and security, including the authorization of peacekeeping missions and the imposition of sanctions.