Pope Francis' global connection empowered international security
As the former head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State, Pope Francis’ culturally attuned, human-centric approach to communication empowered international security.
In honor of the passing of Pope Francis, I would like to share this report by Deutsche Welle that highlights his profound impact on the Indonesian people. Pope Francis’ remarkable ability to communicate and connect with Indonesians, the world’s largest Muslim population, on a basis of humanity exemplifies his religious leadership and legacy. Moreover, the Indonesian Muslims mourning the loss of Pope Francis underscores the receptivity and openness of the Indonesian community towards the West.
Even for the U.S. Intelligence and Defense Community, Pope Francis’ culturally attuned communication style serves as an exemplary model, regardless of one’s religious affiliation. Given the intricate dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the Russia-North Korea-China triangle, it behooves the interests of the United States to strengthen its diplomatic and defense partnerships with Indonesia. The Republic of Indonesia’s strategic move to join BRICS in January 2025 could not only complicate hybrid warfare in the Indo-Pacific but also contribute to the global mission to counter terrorism.
The Russian government, through its mercenary arm '“Africa Corps”, has already been implicated in human trafficking. Russian-led posts in Libya are used to funnel ethnically diverse groups from Southeast Asia and Syria into Europe, particularly noticeable in Italy. The Muslim populations of Asia, including India, are within the reach of groups like ISIS, its affiliate ISIS-K, and al-Qaeda. ISIS and Al-Qaeda continue to pose threats to Syria’s potential new state while directing its recruits towards African nations such as Somalia.
Consequently, there will be a subsequent wave in terrorist recruitment, which will necessitate a higher demand from the Combatant Commands and Partner Nations on U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) for support. A long-term and mutually beneficial U.S.-Indonesia relationship remains essential for international security. While countries like Malaysia have successfully addressed ISIS recruitment through community-oriented measures, the Muslim communities in Southeast Asia remain vulnerable to jihadist-themed preaching and propaganda.
This post began with deep admiration for Pope Francis’ profound respect for people and their cultures. His approach to global connectivity exemplifies the value of human-centric communication, even in the context of international security. Pope Francis’ legacy demonstrates that even amidst contentious and bitter wars and battles, people’s hearts and minds remain open.
~E