Radian Syam Addresses Democracy in the VUCA Era Amid US-Israel versus Iran Conflict
Jakarta – Constitutional law expert Radian Syam has argued that the escalating tension involving the United States, Israel, and Iran raises fundamental questions about the direction of the global order.
According to him, the conflict raises questions about whether the world still operates on the basis of international legal supremacy or is moving towards a system dominated by force.
In his latest book titled Navigating Democracy in the VUCA Era (2025), Radian Syam asserts that democracy today is not sailing in calm waters. “It moves amid waves of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) that shape the new global landscape. Rapidly developing geopolitical conflicts demonstrate that international stability is being tested seriously,” he stated on Monday, 2 March 2026.
According to Radian Syam, conflict between nations is not a new phenomenon. Regional tensions have the potential to create domino effects across continents, including in the energy sector, international trade, and financial market stability.
From the perspective of legal theory, Radian refers to Hans Kelsen’s thinking, which asserts that law is a system of norms that derives validity from a consistent hierarchical structure.
In the international order, these foundational norms are reflected in the principle of respect for state sovereignty, the prohibition on arbitrary use of force, and the obligation to resolve disputes peacefully.
“When norms are respected, law becomes an anchor of order. However, when norms are interpreted unilaterally, the logic of force becomes strengthened,” Radian stated.
He argues that claims of self-defence and arguments of national security often operate in the grey area between legal legitimacy and strategic calculation.
Furthermore, he asserts that the concept of sovereignty in modern international law is no longer merely a right but also a responsibility. States have the right to self-defence, but remain bound by humanitarian law and human rights principles.
In crisis situations, global leadership is required to balance security and legitimacy.
On the other hand, these dynamics are not merely a Middle East regional issue. As a nation that adheres to an active and independent foreign policy, Indonesia has a strategic interest in maintaining global stability based on law.
The principle of active independence, according to Radian, is not passive neutrality but rather an independent and constructive position in promoting dialogue and peaceful resolution.