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International Relations for Business Academy 3.0 Now Open for Registration

  • Writer: Foreign Policy Talks
    Foreign Policy Talks
  • Apr 2
  • 2 min read
Retno Marsudi, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia (2014–2024), speaks at International Relations for Business Academy 2.0 on 9 August 2025. (Photo: Foreign Policy Talks)
Retno Marsudi, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia (2014–2024), speaks at International Relations for Business Academy 2.0 on 9 August 2025. (Photo: Foreign Policy Talks)

Foreign Policy Talks is pleased to announce the opening of registration for its flagship program, IR for Business Academy (IRBA) 3.0.


As global economic activity becomes increasingly shaped by geopolitical developments, the boundaries between international relations and business continue to blur. Decisions made in diplomatic rooms today often carry direct implications for markets, supply chains, and investment climates tomorrow. Recognizing this shift, IRBA was first introduced in 2024 to help bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing the next generation of Indonesian talent to operate confidently across both domains.


IR for Business Academy 3.0 builds on this foundation with a more refined and immersive learning experience. The program is specifically designed for students and recent graduates who are seeking to deepen their understanding of how global political dynamics intersect with business strategy, economic diplomacy, and corporate decision-making. Rather than approaching international relations and business as separate disciplines, IRBA positions them as inherently interconnected fields that demand a combined analytical lens.


Selected mentees will participate in a structured series of five in-person mentorship sessions, held biweekly starting from 8 May 2026. Each session combines conceptual discussion with applied insights, allowing participants to engage directly with real-world developments and policy-business linkages.


Throughout the program, mentees will explore key topics, including:

  • Topic 1: Navigating Global Trade in an Uncertain World: How International Relations Graduates Can Contribute (8 May 2026)

  • Topic 2: From Global Insights to Business Ideas: Lesson from a Young Entrepreneur (22 May 2026)

  • Topic 3: Are Climate and Sustainability Investments Still Relevant in Today's World? (5 June 2026)

  • Topic 4: Why Understanding the World Matters for Future Business Leaders (19 June 2026)

  • Topic 5: How to Use International Relations Knowledge As a Business Product? (3 July 2026)


The emphasis remains on practical relevance. Participants are encouraged to think critically about how international developments translate into concrete business risks and opportunities, particularly in the Indonesian context.


Beyond the formal sessions, IRBA also seeks to foster meaningful professional connections. The program creates space for open dialogue between mentors and mentees, allowing participants to engage more deeply with practitioners who operate at the intersection of policy and business. As part of this commitment, top-performing mentees will be invited to an exclusive dinner with mentors, offering a more intimate setting for discussion, reflection, and networking.


Over time, IRBA has grown into more than just a training program. It represents an effort to cultivate a community of young professionals who are attentive to global developments and capable of translating that awareness into strategic thinking. In an environment where Indonesia’s global engagement continues to evolve, initiatives such as IRBA aim to contribute, in a modest but concrete way, to strengthening the country’s human capital in areas that matter.


Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore highlights from previous editions of the academy through our website:


Registration for IRBA 3.0 is now open and can be accessed via the following link:


Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early registration is strongly encouraged.




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