
Overview
The Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Jakarta is an independent, non-profit organisation focusing on policy-oriented studies on domestic and international issues. It was established in 1971.
Mission and Philosophy
Our mission is to contribute to improved policy making through policy-oriented research, dialogue, and public debate. This is based on the belief that long-term planning and vision for Indonesia and the region must be based on an in-depth understanding of economic, political, and social issues, including regional and international developments. CSIS research and studies are channeled in various forms as independent input to government, universities and research institutions, civil society organizations, media, and business.
Scope of Research
CSIS undertakes research in economics, politics and social change, and international relations, with topics selected on the basis of their relevance to public policy. Inter-disciplinary studies are encouraged. In the area of foreign policy, CSIS research is complemented and strengthened by its relations with an extensive network of research, academic, and other organizations worldwide.
Regional Partnerships In the wider Asia-Pacific region, CSIS is actively involved with regional and international networks of Track-Two institutions and think-tanks that interact with intergovernmental activities.
This includes hosting the Indonesian National Committee for Pacific Economic Cooperation (INCPEC) for the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC), the Indonesian Member Committee for the Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP), and the Secretariat for the ASEAN ISIS. CSIS is also a founding institute of the Council for Asia Europe Cooperation (CAEC).
Through its active participation in Track-Two activities, CSIS takes part in efforts to promote regional cooperation (ASEAN, Asia Pacific) and intra-regional cooperation (ASEM).
Public Education
CSIS has a longstanding commitment to public education through a variety of avenues, including an intensive seminar program, lectures and conferences, and a bookstore. The CSIS library is regarded as one of the best in Indonesia, and an outstanding resource for students, government and diplomatic personnel, the business community, and members of the public.
Publications
CSIS has an active publication program covering a wide range of subjects in English and Bahasa Indonesia.
These include:
- Books and monographs covering research undertaken by CSIS;
- The Indonesian Quarterly, an English-language journal started in 1974;
- Analisis CSIS, a quarterly journal in Bahasa Indonesia, published since 1971;
- A clipping service, functional since 1971, prepares and maintains clippings on a range of themes from national and regional newspapers.
- CSIS cooperates with the Indonesia Project of the Australian National University in printing and distributing The Bulletin of Indonesian Economic Studies (BIES).
Cultural Activities
Apart from studies and seminars, CSIS presents cultural performances, including traditional, classical and modern music, wayang performance, documentary film screenings, and exhibitions of paintings and sculpture.
Funding
CSIS is funded in part through an establishment endowment fund. It also seeks support for its research programs and regional network activities from foundations, multilateral organisations, and donor institutions. It welcomes donations from groups and individuals.