Positive Discourse Analysis of the Presidential Rhetoric at the G20 Summit 2022 in Bali, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract. This study aims to uncover the utilization of positive discourse in presidential rhetoric during the G20 Summit 2022. This qualitative study employs a dataset of speeches delivered by the President of Indonesia, obtained from the official website of The Secretary of the Cabinet of the Republic of Indonesia. The speeches were published online between November 14 and 16, 2022. The procedures involve examining the speeches, identifying positive language, categorizing the data into three main themes (i.e., uniting, being optimistic, and maintaining world peace), analyzing rhetorical strategies and interpreting the data using the Positive Discourse Analysis approach. The results show that the President of Indonesia encourages all countries to unite to achieve common goals. Despite a severe toll on the world economy after the pandemic, he spreads optimism to the summit. He also persuades everyone to maintain world peace. These three focal points are conveyed by utilizing personal pronouns ‘we’ to strengthen the sense of collectivity and build unity and ‘I’ to highlight his good leadership quality. Justification for the negative impacts of war is expressed through conditional clauses. Other discursive strategies in his rhetoric include using lexical choices, parallel structures, modals, metaphors, rhetorical questions, and repetitive phrases. The encouragement and uplifting messages in the speeches may boost positive vibes in the meeting. The use of rhetorical techniques can impact international relations, economic cooperation, and how people worldwide work together to address common issues.Keywords: Positive Discourse Analysis, president, indonesia, G20, summit