Indonesia holds a unique distinction in the history of the United Nations, it is the only country to have ever formally left the UN and then rejoined later.
This unusual diplomatic move took place during a period of significant political tension in Southeast Asia and reflected Indonesia’s bold assertion of its foreign policy stance at the time.
Understanding the reasons behind Indonesia’s departure from the UN and its subsequent return provides valuable insight into the country’s historical political dynamics and its evolving role on the global stage.
Indonesia’s Early Years in the UN
Indonesia joined the United Nations on September 28, 1950, shortly after gaining independence from Dutch colonial rule. The country, under the leadership of President Sukarno, was eager to assert its sovereignty and take part in the international community.
In the early years, Indonesia was active in voicing concerns of newly independent nations and often supported anti-colonial and non-aligned causes.
By the late 1950s and early 1960s, Indonesia had begun to position itself as a leader of the Non-Aligned Movement, distancing itself from the Cold War rivalry between the Western bloc and the Soviet Union.
President Sukarno was particularly vocal about establishing a “new world order” that favored developing nations over the existing power structures dominated by Western countries.
These ideas played a key role in the events that would eventually lead Indonesia to temporarily withdraw from the United Nations.
Indonesia’s Dispute with Malaysia
The main catalyst for Indonesia’s departure from the UN was its opposition to the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
The creation of Malaysia, which united the Federation of Malaya with Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak, was seen by Sukarno as a British neocolonial plot.
Indonesia believed that the new federation would threaten its influence in the region and serve as a puppet state for Western powers.
In response, Sukarno launched a political and military campaign known as “Konfrontasi” (Confrontation) against Malaysia.
This policy included cross-border raids, propaganda, and diplomatic hostility. The tensions escalated when Malaysia was elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 1965, despite Indonesia’s objections.
Sukarno viewed Malaysia’s election as an affront to Indonesia’s position and a sign of the UN’s bias towards Western interests. In protest, he decided to take a radical step—withdraw Indonesia from the United Nations altogether.
Indonesia’s Withdrawal from the UN
On January 20, 1965, President Sukarno officially announced Indonesia’s withdrawal from the UN. A letter was sent to the Secretary-General, stating that Indonesia had decided to suspend its participation.
Although the letter did not use the word “resignation” or “withdrawal” explicitly, the action was interpreted as a formal departure.
Sukarno declared that Indonesia would form an alternative to the UN called CONEFO (Conference of the New Emerging Forces), aimed at providing a platform for developing countries to challenge the dominance of Western powers in global affairs.
However, CONEFO never gained traction internationally, and the idea quickly faded after political changes took place within Indonesia.
Indonesia’s Return
Indonesia’s absence from the UN was short-lived. In the same year as its withdrawal, 1965, a failed coup attempt in Indonesia led to major political upheaval.
The coup was blamed on the Communist Party of Indonesia (PKI), and in the months that followed, a violent anti-communist purge swept the country.
Eventually, General Suharto emerged as the dominant political figure, sidelining President Sukarno and assuming de facto control of the government.
Under Suharto’s leadership, Indonesia shifted away from the radical and confrontational policies of the Sukarno era. The new government sought to reestablish ties with the international community and stabilize the country’s global image.
On September 28, 1966, exactly sixteen years after it first joined, the Indonesian government sent a communication to the UN, stating its intent to resume full cooperation and participation.
The United Nations welcomed Indonesia back without requiring a new application process, treating its return as a resumption of membership rather than a re-admittance.
This smooth reintegration underscored the unique nature of Indonesia’s departure, it had never been formally expelled, nor had it renounced membership in clear legal terms.
Legacy and Significance
Indonesia’s brief withdrawal from the UN remains a singular event in the history of the organization. No other member state has ever taken such a step.
The episode highlights the complexities of international diplomacy during the Cold War and the challenges faced by newly independent nations trying to navigate a world dominated by superpowers.
Today, Indonesia is an active member of the United Nations and plays a significant role in peacekeeping, sustainable development, and regional diplomacy.
Its temporary departure in 1965 is remembered as a reflection of a turbulent political era rather than a long-term shift in its international commitments.
The incident serves as a reminder that the relationship between nations and global institutions can be shaped by political ideology, regional conflicts, and leadership changes.
Indonesia’s journey in and out of the United Nations stands as a testament to its evolving role in global affairs and its continued engagement with the international community.
