Jakarta (ANTARA) – More than seven decades ago, Bandung City in West Java witnessed the birth of a grand vision: a world free from domination, equal in dignity, and sovereign in self-determination — principles embodied in the Bandung Ten Principles (Dasasila Bandung).Born out of the 1955 Asian-African Conference, these principles — respect for sovereignty, non-interference, and peaceful cooperation — remain increasingly relevant in a polarized world.Today's global polarization is not limited to competition among major powers. It poses a real threat to the multilateral order that has long protected developing nations.Amid escalating conflicts, trade wars, and intensifying geopolitical pressure, the values of the Asian-African Conference offer a realistic foundation for building dignified South-South solidarity.In this context, the Bandung Ten Principles once again serve as a moral compass for nations that refuse to align with any single power bloc.The Bandung Ten Principles include:Respect for fundamental human rights and the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter;Respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations;Recognition of the equality of all races and nations, large and small;Non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries;Respect for the right of each nation to defend itself, individually or collectively, in accordance with the UN Charter;Abstention from the use of collective defense arrangements to serve the interests of major powers;Abstention from exerting pressure on other countries;Refraining from acts or threats of aggression or the use of force;Settlement of international disputes by peaceful means;Promotion of mutual interests and cooperation;Respect for justice and international obligations.Indonesia's role as host and bridgeIndonesia, as the historic host of the conference, bears a significant moral responsibility.At a time when many countries are forced to choose sides, Indonesia can reaffirm its position as a bridge — not by avoiding a stance, but by upholding dialogue and justice as the most viable path to global peace.The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has stated that the country will continue to promote the values of the Asian-African Conference as a unifying force for developing nations and as a foundation for resolving global conflicts.Foreign Ministry spokesperson Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela said Indonesian diplomacy will continue to uphold the Bandung Principles in various international forums, particularly in advocating world peace amid ongoing global conflicts.According to Syaroni Rofi'i, an international relations expert from University of Indonesia, the Bandung Principles align with those of the United Nations, including respect for universal values, sovereignty, and a just global order.”The values and spirit remain relevant. What is needed is to amplify them into a new moral movement among Asian and African countries,” he said.He added that the main challenge lies in aligning perspectives on a shared future agenda, as the complexity of global issues requires concrete programs capable of bringing Asian-African countries together.Strengthening coordination across executive and legislative levels, as well as improving institutional capacity and human resources, is also essential — particularly in addressing global economic and climate challenges, he noted.A principle for today, not just historyThe Bandung Spirit is not merely a historical memory — it is a choice that must be renewed by every generation that inherits it.In a world increasingly shaped by great-power rivalry, the Bandung Principles remind us that peace is not a gift from powerful nations, but a right that must be pursued collectively by sovereign and dignified states.Their relevance lies not in how often they are cited, but in how deeply they are reflected in real policies — resisting pressure, upholding justice, and having the courage to challenge dominant narratives.Syaroni noted that the spirit of the Asian-African Conference continues to influence foreign policy across the region, even as its focus has shifted from anti-imperialism to navigating contemporary geopolitical dynamics.He added that the legacy of the 1955 conference can be revitalized through stronger cooperation and diplomatic engagement in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, particularly in resolving regional conflicts.As a key initiator of the conference, Indonesia has the opportunity to unite Asian-African perspectives in addressing geopolitical challenges and contributing to solutions for global injustice.The government must also rekindle the spirit of national struggle, especially among younger generations, as the world becomes increasingly divided by rivalry among major powers.The Asian-African Conference demonstrated that nations outside the major power blocs could articulate a vision of peace that remains relevant today.That vision is even more crucial at a time when multilateralism is under strain and global solidarity is tested by narrow interests.Ultimately, the world does not need competing power blocs. It needs a space where nations can engage as equals, speak openly, and build a shared future without fear.That spirit endures — and as one of the initiators of the 1955 Asian-African Conference, Indonesia has a responsibility to keep it alive.Like a candle in the darkness, the Bandung Spirit must be upheld so that it continues to illuminate the path forward for all.