Perbandingan Tipologi Paradiplomasi Kota Medan Dan Kota Gwangju Berdasarkan Kerja Sama Sister City Medan-Gwangju

Abstract

Paradiplomacy refers to the engagement of subnational actors in international relations, including local governments in foreign cooperation. This study examines the dynamics of paradiplomacy through a comparative analysis of the sister city partnership between Medan City (Indonesia) and Gwangju City (South Korea). Using the paradiplomacy typology framework developed by Takdir Ali Mukti—which includes isolative, conservative, and progressive forms—this study aims to compare the implementation of sister city cooperation between the two cities by examining indicators such as foreign policy orientation, diplomatic roles, the presence of foreign affairs offices, and mechanisms for drafting cooperation documents. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach and document analysis, the findings indicate that Medan adopts a conservative model of paradiplomacy, characterized by limited diplomatic autonomy and strong central government control. In contrast, Gwangju demonstrates a more progressive approach through a well-established institutional framework and active involvement in international cooperation. These findings highlight a disparity in the structure and strategy of paradiplomacy between the two cities and underscore the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and local paradiplomacy policies to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of their respective international collaborations.