Regional Affairs Research Articles

The emergence of Qatar's diplomacy in a complex world: Balancing soft power in regional affairs

AbstractThis article examines the key aspects that contribute to Qatar's influence and soft power and investigates how Qatar strategically utilizes culture, economics, sports diplomacy, and media influence to shape perceptions of Qatar. A focal point of Qatar's soft power tool is Al Jazeera, which serves not only as a media giant but also as a dynamic force to amplify Qatar's influence. The article focuses on the resonance of Qatar's cultural initiatives, tourism sector, and sports and how these elements together contribute to soft power. Against the backdrop of regional challenges, Qatar's strategic posture emerges as a resilient force that positions the country as a key player in shaping regional dynamics.

Understanding ASEAN's Perception and Response to Japan's "Indo-Pacific Strategy"

The ASEAN region is located along Japan's critical maritime lifeline and has maintained close cooperation with Japan in various fields for an extended period, making it a pivotal point for Japan's "Indo-Pacific Strategy". To successfully advance this strategy, Japan has strengthened cooperation with ASEAN and its member states in the economic and maritime security sectors through dual-track diplomacy, seeking ASEAN's recognition and support for the strategy. ASEAN views Japan's policies as beneficial to its development and capable of enhancing its strategic autonomy to some extent. However, the regional order constructed by Japan's "Indo-Pacific Strategy" undermines ASEAN's centrality in the regional security architecture and negatively impacts its amicable relations with China. To preserve its centrality, ASEAN introduced the "ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific", aiming to articulate its vision and stance clearly to maintain its central role in regional affairs. Furthermore, ASEAN employs a hedging strategy amid great power competition to safeguard its interests and actively collaborates with external countries to expand its strategic autonomy.

THE INCREASING INCOME STRATEGY OF SUMBER AGUNG VILLAGE WEST PESIR DISTRICT THAT IMPACT ON COMMUNITY ECONOMY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF SIYASAH MALIYAH

The enactment of Law Number 6 of 2014 concerning Villages and Law Number 23 of 2014 concerning Regional Government gives villages the right to regulate their regional affairs. In increasing the village's original income, the village government has the right and authority to widely utilize village wealth. Regarding village income sources, efforts to mobilize resources to develop the people's economic potential will increase people's productivity, so that the productivity of both human resources and natural resources around the people can be increased. In this research study, the formulation of the problem is how the strategy for increasing village original income has an impact on the community's economy and how siyāsah māliyah reviews this strategy. The aim of this research are to find out how the strategy of increasing village original income has an impact on the community's economy and how siyāsah māliyah views this strategy. The type of research used in this research is field research, where this research was carried out by interviewing staff at Sumber Agung Pekon, Ngambur District, Pesisir Barat Regency. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively, processing data analysis using descriptive analysis methods, namely discussions based on general thought patterns and then concluded in specific terms. The research results show that the strategy to increase village original income which has an impact on the community economy in the Sumber Agung area, Ngambur District, Pesisir Barat Regency is by establishing village-owned business entities, developing beach tourism, and also having village markets. The conclusion from the results of this research is that the strategy to increase village original income which has an impact on the economy of the community in the Ngambur area has made a contribution, although not much. Siyāsah māliyah's review of the increase in original village income which has an impact on the economy of the community in the Sumber Agung District of Ngambur is in accordance with the principle of benefit, namely prioritizing the interests of the people rather than the interests of the individual.

Pengelolaan Cold Storage 1.000 Ton Di Muara Baru Jakarta: Perspektif Ekonomi Kelembagaan Baru

Fish cold storage was built by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in various regions as one of the implementations of the National Fish Logistics System policy, which aims to maintain the availability of fish for industrial raw materials and domestic consumption. The cold storage of 1,000 tons was established to become a role model for the government's buffer stock facility in the Jakarta area. However, its implementation is still experiencing obstacles because its use is not optimal and has not attracted the interest of fisheries players in the broader scope. The research objective is to examine the institutional system implemented in managing cold storage of 1,000 tons from a business perspective. The research uses a case study method in government cold storages located in Muara Baru, North Jakarta. The institutional analysis of cold storage management was analyzed descriptively and qualitatively using the New Institutional Economic Theory approach. The research results show that the institution of cold storage of 1,000 tons still needs to improve its management. The aspects that contribute most to the lack of business performance in cold storage are property rights and, flexibility and adaptability. The implications that can be given are institutional improvements through 1) developing business models that are more tailored to user needs, 2) establishing bodies or institutions that are more authoritative in public services, 3) aligning incentives and building cooperation with a wider range of users, 4) implementation of standard procedures balanced with commitment to compliance from stakeholders and strong controls, 5) increased speed and flexibility of services and 6) competitive pricing.

THE IMPACT OF REGIONAL AUTONOMY ON REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The objective of this research is to analyze the impact of regional autonomy on regional development. This study aims to understand how the implementation of regional autonomy policies, which grant greater authority to local governments in managing resources and making decisions, influences various aspects of regional development. The research focuses on assessing the effectiveness of regional autonomy in improving the quality of public services, local economic growth, and equitable development. The research method employed in this study is literature review, involving the collection and analysis of data from various written sources such as books, journals, articles, and other relevant documents related to the research topic. Data analysis techniques are conducted through literature studies, where the researcher reviews, compares, and synthesizes information obtained from various sources. This approach allows the researcher to gain a deep understanding of existing theoretical concepts, identify research gaps, and establish a solid framework for further analysis. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of regional autonomy, which provides greater authority to local governments in managing regional affairs, has various positive impacts and challenges for regional development. The success of regional autonomy largely depends on the capacity of local governments to manage the given authority and synergy with the central government in achieving sustainable development goals.

Mekanisme Penyusunan Laporan Pertanggungjawaban Anggaran Pendapatan dan Belanja Daerah

The central government gives authority to regional governments to take care of their household affairs which are unique to the region with the aim that local governments are more effective in managing regional affairs both in terms of development, utilization and management of natural resources and human resources. The Regional Head who plans the APBD to organize his administration is also required to be able to provide accountability/provide reports on the results of the use of the APBD. The use of this APBD, of course, must have an agency that oversees it, in the administration of regional government that supervises it, namely the DPRD. Based on this description, the problems examined in this study are: What is the mechanism for preparing the APBD accountability report? according to Law Number 17 of 2003 is a regional financial plan approved by the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD). This research is a normative research that uses a statutory approach. The legal material used in this study comes from the results of library research which consists of primary and secondary legal materials obtained through literature review techniques supported by analytical techniques. From the results of this study it can be interpreted that accountability and oversight are one unit to realize good governance, because it can provide an evaluation of the performance of the government for the future.

IMPEACHMENT PATTERN OF REGIONAL HEADS IN INDONESIA USING REGIONAL AUTONOMY PARADIGM APPROACH

The issue of the dismissal of regional heads is often discussed in several expert circles because, if examined carefully, several juridical issues need to be comprehensively studied. The involvement of the central government in the process of dismissing regional heads is actually counterproductive to the paradigm of regional autonomy. Regional autonomy is oriented towards the independence of a region to manage its regional affairs. This paper discusses the pattern of impeachment of regional heads in Indonesia using the regional autonomy paradigm approach. The type of research used is doctrinal legal research (black letter law), which focuses on determining the law on certain issues. The results showed that there are four patterns of impeachment of regional heads and/or deputy regional heads. First, the process of dismissing a regional head involves the role of the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) and the Central Government. Second, the dismissal involves the roles of the DPRD, Central Government, and Supreme Court. Third, the temporary dismissal of regional heads only involves the role of the Central Government. Fourth, dismissal occurs through the DPRD’s right of interpellation and investigation if evidence of criminal law is found. This shows that the pattern of dismissal of regional heads and/or deputy regional heads is centralized and even negates the spirit of regional autonomy because the DPRD does not have a role in dismissing regional heads. Apart from that, there are no clear provisions regarding public involvement in the impeachment process, which tends to have political nuances, making it neither accountable nor transparent.

Analisis Kebijakan Otonomi Daerah dalam Peningkatan Kualitas Pelayanan dalam Tinjauan Islam

The aim of this research is to analyze the regional autonomy policy to improve the quality of public service in the Islamic perspective. Regional autonomy as a policy of decentralization gives authority to local governments to self-regulate regional affairs, with the aim of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of service to local communities. In Islamic terms, the concept of leadership and public service is strongly based on the principles of justice, trust, and the well-being of the people (maslaha). This study uses a method of literature study used to examine articles published in scientific journals at a particular time to find out how Islamic principles can be applied in the context of regional autonomy policy in Indonesia. Research results show that the implementation of Islamic values in regional autonomy policies can improve the quality of public service by strengthening accountability, transparency, and public participation. Furthermore, the implementation of a policy based on Islamic doctrine can encourage the formation of a government that is more responsive and accountable to the needs and wishes of local communities. The study concludes that there is great potential for achieving better public service through the synergy of regional autonomy policies and Islamic principles.

The politics of Gulf foreign aid: from survival and solidarity to political and military influence

This article critically examines the shifting dynamics of foreign aid politics within the Gulf states. Historically rooted in cultural factors and solidarity with Arab and Muslim nations, foreign aid from prominent donors such as the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait has undergone a profound transformation. Their aid has evolved from solidarity aid into an effective instrument of foreign policy, used strategically to project power and expand regional influence. This shift has not only redefined the role of Gulf countries in international and regional politics but has also catalysed the transformation of states in the broader Middle East. This article, therefore, seeks to answer the following two questions: (1) How do we explain the evolution of the politicisation of Gulf foreign aid? and (2) To what extent has the provision of Gulf foreign aid been a crucial determinant of changing regional dynamics in the Middle East, particularly since the Arab uprisings in 2011? It argues that Gulf donors have become crucial power brokers, shaping the politics and trajectories of key states such as Egypt post 2011. Their substantial financial assistance has proven instrumental in steering political and socio-economic transformations, highlighting the pivotal role of Gulf aid in shaping regional affairs.

The Influence of RMB Settlement Globalization on the Political and Economic Evolution of Singapore Amidst US-China Rivalry

At the dawn of the 21st century, the ascending comprehensive national strength of China has significantly bolstered the role of the RMB in global economic transactions, thereby expediting its international settlement globalization. This development, unfolding within the framework of an increasingly interconnected global economy, profoundly impacts Singapore. Positioned as a crucial trading partner and geographical neighbor to China, while simultaneously serving as a vital security ally of the United States in Asia, Singapore's political and economic landscapes are witnessing transformative shifts. This paper endeavors to meticulously examine and elucidate the specific impacts of RMB settlement globalization on Singapore's political and economic dimensions. Moreover, it aims to explore the potential challenges and opportunities that these impacts may engender for Singapore in the near future, particularly against the backdrop of the US-China competition. The analysis of how the global proliferation of RMB settlement is reshaping Singapore, alongside the nature and direction of this influence amid the strategic rivalry between the US and China, is of paramount importance. It provides deep insights into the evolution of the global political-economic order and assists in formulating strategies for middle-tier nations like Singapore within the changing regional dynamics. By offering a detailed understanding of these developments, this study acts as an essential guide for navigating crises, capitalizing on developmental opportunities, and actively participating in regional affairs.

The Influence of RMB Settlement Globalization on the Political and Economic Evolution of Singapore Amidst US-China Rivalry

At the dawn of the 21st century, the ascending comprehensive national strength of China has significantly bolstered the role of the RMB in global economic transactions, thereby expediting its international settlement globalization. This development, unfolding within the framework of an increasingly interconnected global economy, profoundly impacts Singapore. Positioned as a crucial trading partner and geographical neighbor to China, while simultaneously serving as a vital security ally of the United States in Asia, Singapore's political and economic landscapes are witnessing transformative shifts. This paper endeavors to meticulously examine and elucidate the specific impacts of RMB settlement globalization on Singapore's political and economic dimensions. Moreover, it aims to explore the potential challenges and opportunities that these impacts may engender for Singapore in the near future, particularly against the backdrop of the US-China competition. The analysis of how the global proliferation of RMB settlement is reshaping Singapore, alongside the nature and direction of this influence amid the strategic rivalry between the US and China, is of paramount importance. It provides deep insights into the evolution of the global political-economic order and assists in formulating strategies for middle-tier nations like Singapore within the changing regional dynamics. By offering a detailed understanding of these developments, this study acts as an essential guide for navigating crises, capitalizing on developmental opportunities, and actively participating in regional affairs.

An analytical investigation of consequences of terrorism in the Middle East

The Middle East has experienced significant and wide-ranging consequences due to terrorism and the resulting War on Terror. The region saw substantial impacts as a result of the War on Terror. This study briefly overviews the security, economic and political repercussions of the prolonged conflict in the region. The rise of terrorism and the War on Terror in the Middle East have seriously affected security, political stability, intensified extremist movements, given rise to proxy wars, caused economic recession, humanitarian crises, restricted civil liberties, and disturbed the balance of power due to geopolitical shifts in regional affairs. The US attack on Iraq, the emergence of radical factions like ISIS and Al-Qaeda, refugee crises, civil wars and resultant humanitarian crises in Yemen, Syria, Libya, Iraq, Lebanon, and Palestine, destroyed many countries' economies and paralysed governments in affected countries, led to sectarianism and power vacuums, and ultimately undermined peace, security and sustainable development in the Middle East. It also had negative economic, security, and political impacts on other parts of the world. In addition, the intervention of external powers in the region and their counterterrorism measures have also motivated many people to join militant organizations. The grievances of common people and their immense civilian losses in the War on Terror gave rise to anti-Western sentiments and joining anti-Western militant groups. Therefore, understanding these consequences is crucial to developing a more effective approach to address the impacts of the War on Terror and restore peace and stability in the Middle East.

Commentary: Revisiting Contemporary Revolutions in the Middle East and North Africa

Abstract Mark Beissinger’s The Revolutionary City marks a major advance in current scholarship on revolutions. Cases drawn from the Middle East and North Africa are an important component of the analysis. Yet instances of popular rebellion in this part of the world have been omitted and several instances that are included are mischaracterized. Specialists in regional affairs can contribute to improving the study of revolutions by revisiting this influential project.

STRATEGY FOR INCREASING THE INCOME OF THE SUMBER AGUNG PEKON, WEST PESIR DISTRICT THAT IMPACT THE COMMUNITY ECONOMY FROM THE SIYASAH MALIYAH PERSPECTIVE

The enactment of Law Number 6 of 2014 concerning Villages and Law Number 23 of 2014 concerning Regional Government gives villages the right to regulate their regional affairs. In increasing the village's original income, the village government has the right and authority to widely utilize village wealth. Regarding village income sources, efforts to mobilize resources to develop the people's economic potential will increase people's productivity, so that the productivity of both human resources and natural resources around the people can be increased. In this research study, the formulation of the problem is how the strategy for increasing village original income has an impact on the community's economy and how siyāsah māliyah reviews this strategy. The aim of this research are to find out how the strategy of increasing village original income has an impact on the community's economy and how siyāsah māliyah views this strategy. The type of research used in this research is field research, where this research was carried out by interviewing staff at Sumber Agung Pekon, Ngambur District, Pesisir Barat Regency. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively, processing data analysis using descriptive analysis methods, namely discussions based on general thought patterns and then concluded in specific terms. The research results show that the strategy to increase village original income which has an impact on the community economy in the Sumber Agung area, Ngambur District, Pesisir Barat Regency is by establishing village-owned business entities, developing beach tourism, and also having village markets. The conclusion from the results of this research is that the strategy to increase village original income which has an impact on the economy of the community in the Ngambur area has made a contribution, although not much. Siyāsah māliyah's review of the increase in original village income which has an impact on the economy of the community in the Sumber Agung District of Ngambur is in accordance with the principle of benefit, namely prioritizing the interests of the people rather than the interests of the individual.

Disentangling social impacts in global value chains through structural path analysis: Investigating forced labor in the cotton industry

AbstractThis analysis proposes an analytical method to trace the precise pathways through which impacts from a specific origin are disseminated worldwide and embodied in high‐income nations' consumption. Our methodological approach is based on a multi‐regional input–output model developed using EXIOBASE data for 2019. The model is extended with the structural path analysis (SPA) methodology, which allows us to trace and quantify the critical interactions in the impacts' dissemination process from their origin until reaching their destination as final demand in a specific industry and region. The SPA method is explored both in gross and net terms as complementary perspectives to disentangle the complexity of global value chains, which is the main contribution of our approach. The net assessment accounts just for interindustry transactions, whereas the gross analysis considers all steps of the value chain, even those occurring at an intraindustry level. In this work, we analyze a case study to expose the features of this proposal, which focuses on assessing the global reach of forced labor in the cotton industry in the two leading worldwide cotton producers. Textile global value chains are intricate and complex, making it hard to trace the negative social impacts linked to them. Therefore, a deeper understanding of how forced labor is disseminated worldwide until reaching developed nations is necessary to shed light on the social sustainability debate. Although this kind of forced labor seems to be a regional affair, our results show that more than 13% of the estimated forced workers are attributed to the European Union and the United States consumption, respectively, with apparel, footwear, and textiles as key goods embodying these workers. After analyzing the specific paths of dissemination linked to the fashion demand of the European Union and the United States, our key findings show the predominant role of the Chinese and Indian textile industries in most paths given the high number of intrasectoral transformations inside this sector. We also show that forced labor in the Chinese cotton industry is even more distant to the final consumer than usual unskilled labor, which is an additional obstacle to its traceability.

Analisis Pengelolaan Dana Bantuan Operasional Kesehatan Puskesmas (BOK) terhadap Pelayanan Kesehatan di Wilayah Kerja Dinas Kesehatan Tahun 2023.

Background: In order to support the realization of equitable health development, one form of government policy in the health sector is the Special Non-Physical Allocation Fund for the Health Sector, hereinafter referred to as the Non-Physical DAK for the Health Sector. Non-Physical DAK for the Health Sector is a fund allocated to the regions to finance the operations of national priority program activities in the health sector that are regional affairs in order to increase access to and quality of health services in the regions. Implementation and management of non-physical DAK must follow the principles of good governance, namely transparency, effectiveness, efficiency, accountability, and not duplication with other funding sources. In its implementation, DAK's Non-Physical Health Sector refers to Minister of Finance Regulation No. 204 of 2022. DAK funds consist of BOK, Maternity Guarantee, Community Health Center Accreditation, and Drug and Food Supervision. Research Methods: This research is comparative, where this research focuses on comparing the realization of the management analysis of Health Operational Assistance (BOK) funds taken from the Merangin Health Office object with Minister of Finance Regulation Number 204 of 2022. This research uses a qualitative method; according to Shiddiq and Choiri (2019), qualitative research is research that produces findings that cannot be achieved using statistical procedures or quantitative methods. There were five informants in this study. This research was carried out in July–August 2023 at the Merangin Health Service. Research Results: From the planning aspect, it can be explained that the management of BOK funds at the Merangin Health Office is 100% in accordance with PMK regulations No. 204 of 2022, namely starting from the allocation of BOK seen from the plan for carrying out activities by attaching a letter submitting SPM GU to BPKAD Merangin, which is based on the number of residents around the work area of each health center, conditions around the work area of the health center, and the proposed program. The next stage is planning and preparing the RUK and RPK at each community health center, which is also in accordance with PMK regulation No. 204 of 2022. Conclusion: Planning in the financial management of the BOK for each health center starts with the proposed activity plan (RUK) made by the health center, which then becomes an activity implementation plan (RPK) through approval from a meeting with the Merangin Health Office and the BOK and RPK management team as a condition for allocating BOK funds.

“Satu Nagari Satu Event” Sebuah Upaya Untuk Kemajuan Kabupaten Tanah Datar

The authority given to local governments by the central government to manage regional affairs for the benefit of the people is known as decentralization. The Tanah Datar Regency Government makes a policy through the “One Village One Event” program. The purpose of this study was to determine the benefits and inhibiting factors in implementing “One Village One Event” using a qualitative approach. By describing the implementation of “One Village One Event” activities, this type of research is descriptive in nature. In this study, interview techniques, documentation, literature reviews in journals and online media, and documentation were used to collect data. The results of this study indicate that the benefits of ”One Village One Event” are Preserving Culture, Exploring Local Potential, Increasing Tourism and Increasing the Community's Economy. The implementation went smoothly and without any significant obstacles.

Legitimizing Power Projection in the US Foreign Policy

International relations (IR) scholars have traditionally viewed military alliances as vehicles, serving to ensure the states’ survival under anarchy and to maintain the balance of power essential for the systemic stability. At the same time, alliances that include a dominant state are often employed by the latter as the means of attaining its core objectives and the tools of legitimizing its extraordinary might and ambitious policies. Apparently, this situation favors ambiguity and uncertainty in terms of developing proper theoretical understanding of the nature of alliances as the core institutions, which pattern the states’ interactions, sustain international order, and ensure smooth functioning of the power relations. Seeking to elaborate more comprehensive approach to studying “asymmetric alliances” as the tools of both wielding the dominant state’s influence and legitimizing its preeminence, the paper engages the insights borrowed from the theory of structuration that helps overcome methodological limitations conditioned by dual understanding of “power” as either “attribute” or “relationship”. Specifically, the paper examines the United States’ “asymmetric alliances” in Europe and East Asia as distinct social structures, comprised of “resources” and “rules” that sustain practices of U.S. engagement in regional affairs so as to ensure reproduction of inequitable relationships between the allies and to legitimize the United States’ hegemony. This approach allows to reach more integrative understanding of the role of these alliances as the tools of Washington’s influence and the means of reproduction of the inequitable relationships between the allies, as well as to identify contradictions inherent in these hierarchical arrangements, engendered by growing tension between “resources” and “rules” involved in the process of wielding and legitimizing the “American power”.

Applying the Concept of Neighboring Country Dynamics in Globalization

Neighboring country dynamics play a significant role in global and regional affairs. This paper extends the research used to develop a model of globalization and includes the rationale for adding Neighboring Country Dynamics as a domain in the model. The concept of neighboring country dynamics is explained and applied using specific examples that demonstrate its significant influence on global institutions, trade blocks, regions, and countries.

Late in Inka Mina Ship Procurement: A Case of North Celebes, Indonesia

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) launched a program to procure 1,000 fishing vessels sized 30 GT, known as Inka (ships) Mina (fish) to increase fishermen's income and welfare. The KKP program was considered not running optimally. This was evidenced by many cases of procurement of troubled fishing vessels involving the Department of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DKP) in several regions in Indonesia. One area that experienced problems related to the procurement of fishing vessels were the DKP of North Sulawesi Province, which was the object of this study. The problem that faced was the delay in shipbuilding. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and analyze the roots of ship procurement problems by looking at the suitability of the ship procurement process in North Sulawesi Province DKP with Presidential Regulation No. 54 of 2010 and the causes of delays in shipbuilding. This study used a case study approach with an exploratory type. Data collection was done through documentation, open-ended interviews, and direct observation. The selection of participants used purposive sampling technique. Data analysis techniques were carried out by data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of the study showed the process of procuring ships in DKP Prov. North Sulawesi, started from the preparation, implementation, signed until the execution of the contract, ran in accordance with Presidential Regulation No. 54 of 2010. The delay in shipbuilding was occurred to the provider. The causes of the delay were; lack of company experience which has an impact on the lack of experts; late delivery of raw materials; and natural conditions, which is high rainfall. As a result of delayed in shipbuilding, there were several findings that is incompatibility of handover dates and sea trial on the official document with the date of the photos taken and the sea trial taken, discrepancies in ship size, incompatibility in the calculation of late fines, and the role ambiguity in the Acting Official Technical Activities (PPTK).