Dilemmatic Border Protection: Indonesia’s International Obligation for Refugees vs National Interests

The global refugee crisis has placed significant strain on host and transit countries, with Indonesia facing its own challenges amid rising numbers of Rohingya refugees. This article examines Indonesia’s maritime border protection architecture in the context of its international obligations and national interests. Indonesia, an archipelagic nation with vast maritime borders, has historically welcomed refugees but struggles with limited resources, legal complexities, and security concerns. The influx of Rohingya refugees, particularly from Myanmar’s ongoing conflicts, has sparked tensions within local communities, exacerbated by misinformation and social unrest. Indonesia’s response involves balancing humanitarian commitments with border security. While the country is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, it adheres to the principle of non-refoulement and collaborates with the UNHCR to manage refugee arrivals. However, concerns over human smuggling and organized crime challenge law enforcement efforts. This article explores how Indonesia reconciles legal enforcement with refugee protection, analyzing policy frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and regional implications. The study highlights the need for a clearer national strategy to manage maritime border security while upholding international human rights standards. It concludes that stronger coordination and regional cooperation are crucial in addressing Indonesia’s refugee dilemma.