Feast of Unity: How Gastrodiplomacy Fuels Political and Cultural Connections

Food has long been more than just sustenance; it has been a vital tool in diplomacy, bridging divides, fostering relationships, and even resolving conflicts. Gastrodiplomacy, the strategic use of food to conduct diplomatic negotiations and improve relations, has deep historical roots that span across cultures and continents. From the ancient banquets of Plataea in 479 BCE, which united Greek city-states against the Persian invasion, to the Renaissance-era feasts that solidified alliances among European monarchs, food has always been a subtle yet powerful instrument in the political arena. In modern times, this tradition continues to evolve and adapt to new diplomatic landscapes, and nowhere is this more evident than in Indonesia, where political leaders have harnessed the power of food to navigate complex political dynamics both domestically and internationally.
In the context of Indonesian political dynamics, gastrodiplomacy has become a unique form of soft diplomacy, particularly under the leadership of President Joko Widodo (commonly known as Jokowi). Jokowi's political strategy often involves the use of informal meals and gatherings to foster dialogue and build alliances, a tactic that has become colloquially known as "diplomasi meja makan" (table diplomacy) or "politik makan siang" (lunch politics). This approach is deeply rooted in Indonesia's cultural traditions, where communal meals symbolize harmony, unity, and respect. By inviting political figures to share meals, Jokowi creates an environment where political tensions can be eased, and negotiations can take place in a more relaxed and personable setting.
The concept of gastrodiplomacy is not limited to Indonesia's domestic politics. It has also been effectively employed in international relations, where food serves as a medium for cultural exchange and a way to promote Indonesia's soft power abroad. Gastrodiplomacy, as defined by Paul S. Rockower, a culinary scholar from the University of Southern California, is the use of food to win "hearts and minds" through the stomach. This strategy involves using the appeal of national cuisine to enhance a country's image and influence on the global stage. In Indonesia's case, this has translated into efforts to promote the country's rich culinary heritage, from traditional dishes like rendang and nasi goreng to modern interpretations of Indonesian cuisine, as a means of strengthening diplomatic ties and boosting tourism.
Sam Chapple-Sokol, a former pastry chef at the White House and a scholar of culinary diplomacy, categorizes gastrodiplomacy into three main types: Track I Culinary Diplomacy, Gastrodiplomacy, and Citizen Culinary Diplomacy. Track I Culinary Diplomacy refers to official meals between government officials, such as state dinners and diplomatic luncheons. Gastrodiplomacy involves government efforts to promote national cuisine and culture to foreign publics, often to build soft power and encourage trade and tourism. Citizen Culinary Diplomacy, on the other hand, involves meals between government officials and citizens, aimed at addressing local issues and gathering public input. All three forms of culinary diplomacy play a significant role in Indonesia's political and diplomatic strategies, both at home and abroad.

Gastrodiplomacy in Indonesian Political Circles
In Indonesia, food plays a crucial role not just in everyday life but also in the political arena. The concept of gastrodiplomacy---using food as a diplomatic tool to bridge divides, foster relationships, and resolve conflicts---has been skillfully employed by several of Indonesia's political leaders. This cultural approach to politics is deeply rooted in Indonesian traditions, where communal meals symbolize harmony, unity, and the building of strong relationships.
Among the political leaders who have embraced gastrodiplomacy, President Joko Widodo (commonly known as Jokowi) stands out for his use of food as a means to navigate sensitive political issues and build alliances. In fact, some have dubbed this strategy Diplomasi Meja Makan (Table Diplomacy) or Politik Makan Siang (Lunch Politics). Jokowi's approach to political negotiation through shared meals has been an effective tool in softening political discourse and fostering a more collaborative environment.

Joko Widodo's Table Diplomacy
Jokowi's use of gastrodiplomacy began during his tenure as the mayor of Solo and has continued to be a prominent part of his political style as president. One of the most notable early examples of this strategy was in 2014, when Jokowi successfully convinced 989 street vendors (PKL) at Taman Banjarsari to relocate to Klitikan Market. This relocation was achieved without protests or violence---a remarkable feat considering the potential for mass unrest that often accompanies such initiatives.
Jokowi's method was simple yet effective: he invited the vendors, who were members of the Monumen 45 Taman Banjarsari PKL Association, to lunch. Over the course of 54 meals, Jokowi engaged in negotiations that eventually led to the vendors' agreement to relocate. This approach not only facilitated the peaceful resolution of the issue but also highlighted the power of communal dining in creating an atmosphere conducive to dialogue and compromise.
When Jokowi became the governor of Jakarta, he continued to use table diplomacy to address various urban challenges. One prominent example was during the discussions surrounding the redevelopment of Tanah Abang Market, one of Jakarta's busiest and most congested areas. Instead of imposing solutions unilaterally, Jokowi invited community leaders and market vendors to lunch, where they could discuss the issue in a relaxed environment and collectively explore potential solutions.
Jokowi also used this approach in dealing with the residents of Petukangan, South Jakarta, whose land was being cleared for the Jakarta Outer Ring Road (JORR) W2 project. Similarly, when negotiating the relocation of residents living around Pluit Reservoir in North Jakarta, Jokowi hosted a meal featuring grilled fish and beef soup (sop iga). In both cases, the act of sharing a meal helped to ease tensions and foster a spirit of cooperation, leading to successful negotiations that avoided conflict.
Another example of Jokowi's gastrodiplomacy occurred during his efforts to relocate residents around Ria Rio Reservoir to the Pinus Elok apartment complex. Again, the process was smoothed through a series of lunch meetings, demonstrating how food can serve as a powerful medium for communication and consensus-building in difficult situations.
Jokowi's strategy of using food to facilitate political dialogue also extends to national politics. A highly publicized example was the lunch meeting between Jokowi and the three presidential candidates for the 2024 election: Anies Baswedan, Ganjar Pranowo, and Prabowo Subianto. The lunch, described as warm and friendly, created a conducive environment for dialogue that might have been more strained in a formal setting. The shared meal served to soften the political discourse and foster a sense of unity among the candidates, even as they prepared to compete in a highly charged election.

Megawati Soekarnoputri's Culinary Politics
Jokowi is not the only Indonesian political figure to employ gastrodiplomacy. Megawati Soekarnoputri, the Chairwoman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), has also skillfully used food as a means of consolidating her political power and sending messages to allies and rivals alike. Megawati's gastrodiplomacy often takes the form of cooking demonstrations, where she prepares traditional dishes for party members as a way to strengthen internal solidarity.
One of the most notable instances of Megawati's culinary politics was when she hosted a cooking event featuring the preparation of Sayur Lodeh, a traditional Javanese vegetable stew. The event was more than just a casual gathering; it was a carefully orchestrated political move designed to rally support within the party and demonstrate Megawati's leadership. By personally preparing food for her colleagues, Megawati reinforced the bonds of camaraderie and loyalty that are essential to maintaining party unity.
In another instance, Megawati used food to send a political message to President Jokowi. During a dinner gathering, she delivered a home-cooked meal that included her famous Sayur Lodeh and fried noodles. This seemingly lighthearted gesture carried deeper political implications, as it was seen as a way for Megawati to communicate her influence and expectations within the ruling coalition. The act of sharing a home-cooked meal in this context highlighted how food can serve as a vehicle for nuanced political communication.
Megawati's gastrodiplomacy also extends beyond her interactions with Jokowi. For example, when she hosted a lunch meeting with Tri Rismaharini (Risma), the mayor of Surabaya, and other regional leaders, the menu featured a variety of traditional dishes, including urap-urap (a Javanese vegetable salad with grated coconut), ikan pari (stingray cooked in coconut milk), lontong balap (a Surabaya specialty of rice cakes and bean sprouts), rawon (a beef soup with black keluak nuts), soto (a traditional Indonesian soup), fried chicken, and fried duck. This meal was not just about showcasing Megawati's culinary preferences; it was a carefully chosen menu that reflected her connection to regional cultures and her ability to unite leaders from different parts of the country.

Gastrodiplomacy in a Global Context: Food as a Bridge for Diplomacy, Culture, and Ideology
Gastrodiplomacy, or the strategic use of food in international relations, is a powerful and universal tool that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. Food, as a universal need and pleasure, serves as a neutral and inviting medium through which political, cultural, and even religious ideologies can be shared and spread. This concept of gastrodiplomacy is not just a modern phenomenon; it has been part of diplomatic engagements and cultural exchanges throughout history. In the current globalized world, nations actively employ gastrodiplomacy to enhance their soft power, build alliances, and promote their national identities.
Beyond the domestic political scene, gastrodiplomacy has played a role in Indonesia's international relations as well. A prominent example of this is the coffee diplomacy initiated by former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY). During his tenure, SBY presented a special gift of Kopi Luwak (civet coffee), one of Indonesia's most prized coffee varieties, to Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. This gesture was more than just a diplomatic gift; it was a strategic move to strengthen bilateral ties by sharing a unique aspect of Indonesia's cultural heritage. Kopi Luwak, being an exotic and high-value product, symbolized the depth and richness of Indonesia's offerings to the world.
State banquets also serve as platforms for gastrodiplomacy, where food is used to convey respect, build rapport, and showcase the host country's culinary traditions. During official state visits, the choice of menu is often carefully curated to include dishes that represent the cultural identity of the host nation. These meals provide an opportunity for leaders to engage in informal conversations and develop personal connections, which can be crucial in international diplomacy.

Food as a Diplomatic Tool Among World Leaders
Food has long been employed as a diplomatic tool to create goodwill, build relationships, and foster cooperation among world leaders. State dinners, formal banquets, and even informal meals have played a significant role in softening political tensions and creating opportunities for dialogue.
One notable example of gastrodiplomacy occurred during the 2018 inter-Korean summit when North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in shared a symbolic meal. The menu was carefully curated to include dishes from both North and South Korea, representing the potential for unity and reconciliation between the two nations. The meal featured Pyongyang-style cold noodles and South Korean grilled beef, symbolizing the shared cultural heritage of the Korean Peninsula. This act of sharing food transcended political differences and highlighted the possibility of peaceful coexistence.
Similarly, state dinners hosted by U.S. presidents have long been used to forge diplomatic relationships with foreign leaders. These dinners often showcase American cuisine while incorporating elements of the guest nation's culinary traditions, reflecting mutual respect and a desire for cooperation. For example, during a state dinner in 2015, President Barack Obama hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House, where the menu included a mix of American and Chinese-inspired dishes. The dinner served as a platform for dialogue on key issues such as trade and climate change, while the shared meal helped to create a more personal connection between the two leaders.
In China, elaborate banquets have been a central part of diplomatic engagements for centuries. These banquets, often featuring a wide array of traditional Chinese dishes, serve as a symbol of Chinese hospitality and cultural pride. For foreign dignitaries, participating in these banquets offers an opportunity to experience Chinese culture firsthand and build rapport with Chinese leaders. The importance of food in Chinese diplomacy is evident in the attention to detail in the preparation and presentation of each dish, as well as the symbolic meanings associated with the ingredients and cooking methods.

The Influence of Asian Cuisine in Global Gastrodiplomacy
Asian cuisine, with its rich diversity and deep cultural roots, has played a significant role in global gastrodiplomacy. Countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Japan have actively promoted their national cuisines as part of their diplomatic efforts, using food as a means of enhancing their cultural influence and soft power.
Thailand's "Global Thai" program is a prime example of how a nation can leverage its culinary heritage to strengthen its global presence. Launched in 2002, the program aims to increase the number of Thai restaurants worldwide, thereby promoting Thai culture and enhancing the country's image abroad. By encouraging the global proliferation of Thai cuisine, Thailand has successfully positioned itself as a leader in culinary diplomacy, creating a positive association with Thai culture among international audiences.
Similarly, South Korea's "Kimchi Diplomacy" has helped to popularize Korean food globally, contributing to the country's soft power. Kimchi, a traditional fermented vegetable dish, has become synonymous with Korean cuisine and culture. South Korea has actively promoted kimchi as a symbol of national identity, using it as a cultural bridge to connect with other nations. The global popularity of Korean cuisine, driven by the spread of Korean restaurants and the rise of the Korean Wave (Hallyu), has opened doors for deeper diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange with other countries.
Japan has also successfully utilized gastrodiplomacy to promote its cultural heritage and strengthen its global influence. Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi, has become a global phenomenon, with Japanese restaurants found in major cities around the world. The Japanese government has actively supported the promotion of its cuisine through initiatives like the "Washoku" campaign, which highlights the health benefits and cultural significance of traditional Japanese food. By sharing its culinary traditions with the world, Japan has enhanced its cultural influence and created opportunities for greater diplomatic engagement.

Food as a Medium for Spreading Religion and Ideology
Throughout history, food has also been used as a medium for spreading religious and ideological messages. In various religious traditions, food serves as a powerful symbol of faith, community, and spiritual practice. Religious meals and dietary customs often play a central role in rituals, celebrations, and acts of worship, reinforcing the beliefs and values of the community.
In Islam, for example, food has been instrumental in spreading religious and cultural values across different regions. Dishes such as nasi biryani, nasi mandhi, and lamb-based meals are commonly associated with Arab cuisine and have been adopted in many Muslim-majority countries. These dishes are often served during religious festivals and communal gatherings, reinforcing the sense of belonging to the global Muslim community (ummah). Additionally, dates (kurma) and other traditional Arabian foods are closely tied to Islamic rituals, such as breaking the fast during Ramadan. The sharing of these foods helps to strengthen religious bonds and spread Islamic culture to new regions.
Christianity also has a long history of using food as a symbol of faith and community. The Last Supper, as depicted in Christian tradition, is a powerful example of how food can serve as a means of spiritual communion. During this meal, Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, symbolizing his sacrifice and the establishment of a new covenant. The ritual of the Eucharist, or Holy Communion, which re-enacts the Last Supper, continues to be a central practice in Christian worship, reinforcing the core beliefs of the faith through the act of sharing food.

The Influence of Indonesian Cuisine Abroad: Gastrodiplomacy Beyond Borders
Indonesian gastrodiplomacy is not limited to political circles; it also extends to cultural diplomacy through the global spread of Indonesian cuisine. The presence of Indonesian restaurants and food stalls in various parts of the world, particularly in Australia, demonstrates the country's soft power in promoting its culture. In Perth, for example, Indonesian restaurants such as Bintang Cafe, Warung Jakarta, Warung Bakso Ade, and Dapur Van Java have become popular among locals and tourists alike. These establishments serve as cultural ambassadors, introducing Indonesian flavors to an international audience and fostering a sense of connection between Indonesia and the global community.
The spread of Indonesian cuisine abroad is part of a broader trend of Asian food gaining popularity worldwide. Just as Japanese sushi, Thai curries, and Korean BBQ have found their way into the mainstream, Indonesian dishes such as Nasi Goreng, Satay, and Rendang are becoming increasingly recognized and appreciated. This culinary expansion not only boosts Indonesia's cultural influence but also creates economic opportunities for Indonesian businesses abroad.

Conclusion
Gastrodiplomacy is a powerful tool that transcends traditional diplomatic methods, using food to foster relationships, ease political tensions, and promote cultural exchange. In Indonesia, this form of soft diplomacy has been embraced by political leaders such as President Joko Widodo and Megawati Soekarnoputri. Jokowi's use of "Table Diplomacy" or "Lunch Politics" has been instrumental in resolving local and national issues by creating a relaxed atmosphere for negotiation. His strategy highlights how communal meals, deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, symbolize harmony and unity, making them effective in easing conflicts and fostering cooperation.
Similarly, Megawati's culinary diplomacy, through cooking demonstrations and shared meals, has strengthened internal party unity and conveyed political messages. These examples showcase how food, beyond its nutritional value, serves as a medium for communication, reinforcing social bonds and political alliances.
On the global stage, gastrodiplomacy plays a significant role in enhancing Indonesia's soft power. By promoting its rich culinary heritage, such as rendang and nasi goreng, Indonesia strengthens diplomatic ties and attracts tourism. Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's "coffee diplomacy," gifting Kopi Luwak to Australia's Prime Minister, is one such example of using food as a cultural bridge.
Gastrodiplomacy has been employed worldwide to create goodwill, as seen in state banquets and symbolic meals among world leaders. The use of food in diplomacy continues to evolve, bridging divides and fostering collaboration across cultures and continents, demonstrating that food, as a universal language, holds the power to unite people and promote peace.