United Nations in Indonesia

The United Nations is committed to working with the Government of Indonesia to building a nation that is prosperous, democratic, and just, where development benefits all people, and where the rights of future generations are protected. True to the promise of the SDGs to “leave no one behind”, the UN’s approach combines a strong focus on the poorest of the poor, combatting discrimination and rising inequalities and addressing their root causes. “Leaving no one behind” means prioritizing people’s dignity and placing the progress of the most marginalized and vulnerable communities first. This central and transformative promise has become more important than ever to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and work towards a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive recovery.

Learn more

Publication

13 August 2025

Indonesia-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030

The Indonesia–United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (Cooperation Framework, 2026– 2030) represents the collective commitment of the UN system to fully align its expertise, resources, and partnerships in support of Indonesia’s national development vision. Rooted in a shared commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), it is the primary instrument guiding the strategic collaboration between the Government of Indonesia and the UN Country Team through to 2030.The Cooperation Framework is a product of extensive, inclusive consultations with government institutions, civil society, youth, private sector actors, and development partners. It is designed to support accelerate progress toward Indonesia’s long-term aspiration of becoming an advanced, sustainable, and high-income nation, as articulated in and the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN 2025–2029), particularly the “Trisula Pembangunan” which emphasizes poverty reduction, human capital development, and economic growth. It shows strong alignment between the Cooperation Framework with national priorities, while ensuring that no one is left behind.The Cooperation Framework sets out how the UN will adapt its ways of working in response to Indonesia’s dynamic development context through an increased focus on unlocking innovative financing to scale up SDG impact, leveraging the capacities of different entities through integrated offers, focusing on themes and regions where needs are greatest, and facilitating South-South and Triangular Cooperation.Download the Executive Summary (first button) or the Full Version (second button).

1 of 5

The cover of Cooperation Framework 2026-2030

Publication

19 January 2026

About BBNJ Agreement - Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction

The Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction, also known as the “BBNJ Agreement”, is the first comprehensive, cross-sectoral ocean treaty in decades. It was adopted on 19 June 2023, following nearly twenty years of negotiations. Its adoption marked a historic achievement in efforts to ensure the health and resilience of ocean ecosystems, and to level the playing field in the capacity to participate in and benefit from activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction.The Agreement addresses a package of issues under the overall objective of ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction for the present and in the long term, through effective implementation of the relevant provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and further international cooperation and coordination. It sets out specific measures in respect of these issues, modalities to implement and monitor those measures, as well as institutional arrangements to support its implementation (Factsheet 1: Overview of the BBNJ Agreement).The Agreement covers four main issues:Marine genetic resources, including the fair and equitable sharing of benefits (Factsheet 2);Measures such as area-based management tools, including marine protected areas (Factsheet 3);Environmental impact assessments (Factsheet 4); andCapacity-building and the transfer of marine technology (Factsheet 5).It also addresses so called “cross-cutting issues (Factsheet 6)”, which are topics that are transversal for the implementation of the Agreement and relevant to the four main issues.The BBNJ Agreement and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the SeaThe United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS, or the Convention) sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out. It recognizes that all problems of ocean space are closely interrelated and need to be addressed as a whole. The Convention entered into force on 16 November 1994 and currently has 170 parties, including 169 States and the European Union. The Convention comprises 320 articles and nine annexes, setting out the limits of various maritime zones and the rights and obligations of Parties in these zones. It also provides the framework for further development of specific areas of the law of the sea, including through its implementing agreements.The BBNJ Agreement is the third implementing agreement to the Convention, in addition to the Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 (Part XI Agreement), which addresses the exploitation for and exploration of mineral resources in the international seabed area (the “Area” as defined under the Convention), and the Agreement for the implementation of the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 relating to the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stocks (United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement), which addresses the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stocks.The BBNJ Agreement foresees that it must be interpreted and applied in the context of and in a manner consistent with the Convention. The Agreement also provides that it does not prejudice the rights, jurisdiction and duties of States under the Convention, including in respect of the exclusive economic zone and the continental shelf within and beyond 200 nautical miles.All States and regional economic integration organizations may become parties to the BBNJ Agreement, whether they are parties to the Convention or not. The Agreement also provides that the legal status of non-parties to the Convention is not affected by the Agreement.Why is the BBNJ Agreement important?The BBNJ Agreement marks a vital step towards reversing destructive trends facing the ocean and restoring ocean health. This is critical for addressing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, and to meet various ocean-related global goals, including Sustainable Development Goal 14.As the first comprehensive, cross-sectoral ocean treaty in decades, its focus on enhancing and promoting international cooperation has the potential to lead to more integrated, holistic approaches to the management of ocean activities.Several of its provisions will support more inclusive ocean management, including those related to the traditional knowledge and participation of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, on gender responsiveness of capacity-building and on gender balance and equitable geographic representation in the composition of the bodies established under the Agreement.It will promote marine scientific research and facilitate the generation and dissemination of data and information to help improve our knowledge of marine biodiversity of areas hitherto largely underexplored and to support science-based conservation and management measures.It will contribute to addressing the uneven capacity to carry out and benefit from activities with respect to marine genetic resources of areas beyond national jurisdiction and digital sequence information on such resources, ensuring that such activities are in the interests of all States and for the benefit of all humanity.It will enable area-based management tools, including marine protected areas, to be established in areas beyond national jurisdiction, which will contribute to protecting and restoring ecosystems and strengthening resilience to stressors, including climate change, ocean acidification and marine pollution.It will assist in preventing and minimizing impacts on the marine environment, including through its provisions on environmental impact assessments and area-based management tools, including marine protected areas.It will address uneven capacity and assist States in strengthening cooperation and coordination and undertaking activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction through capacity-building and the transfer of marine technology.When will the Agreement take effect?The Agreement is open for signature for two years, from 20 September 2023 until 20 September 2025. The Agreement may be signed during this time by making an appointment with the Treaty Section of the Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations. To become parties, signatories must then ratify, accept or approve the Agreement in accordance with their national procedures.After the period for signature has closed, a State or regional economic integration organization may become party to the Agreement through accession in accordance with its internal procedures.The Agreement will enter into force 120 days after the date of the deposit of the 60th instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.This article was originally published by the United Nations on the page titled "About Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction" that can be accessed through this link: https://www.un.org/bbnjagreement/en/bbnj-agreement/about-agreement

1 of 5

Close-up of a blue-purple coral reef with flower-like ridged patterns. Each coral polyp has a glowing green center, revealing layered textures and intricate details of underwater marine life.

Publication

18 November 2025

Cyberbullying - Definition and Facts

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using digital devices such as cell/mobile phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, e-mail, apps, social media, forums, or gaming when people view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes the deliberate sending, posting, or sharing of negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation. Some cyberbullying may also be unlawful or criminal behaviour (adapted from UNICEF, no date; PHE, 2014; US Government, no date). Primary reference(s)UNICEF, no date. Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it. 10 things teens want to know about cyberbullying. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Accessed 19 May 2025.PHE, 2014. Cyberbullying: An analysis of data from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey for England, 2014. Public Health England (PHE). Accessed 18 May 2025.US Government, no date. What is Cyberbullying. StopBullying is a federal government website managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Accessed 18 May 2025.AnnotationsAdditional scientific descriptionThe United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) describes cyberbullying as bullying with the use of digital technologies. It is repeated behaviour, aimed at scaring, angering or shaming those who are targeted. Examples include: spreading lies about or posting embarrassing photos of someone on social media; sending hurtful messages or threats via messaging platforms; and impersonating someone and sending mean messages to others on their behalf (UNICEF, no date).The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and UNICEF define cyberbullying as wilful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices (ITU & UNICEF, 2015). It may involve direct (such as chat or text messaging), semi-public (such as posting a harassing message on an e-mail list) or public communications (such as creating a website devoted to making fun of the victim).Face-to-face bullying and cyberbullying can often happen alongside each other. But cyberbullying leaves a digital footprint - a record that can prove useful and provide evidence to help stop the abuse (UNICEF, no date). Online harassment is harassment taking place via the internet (on a social network, a forum, a multiplayer video game, or blogs).Other cyberbullying activities include: the dissemination of photos or videos ridiculing the person; grooming; radicalisation; non-consensual diffusion of intimate photos or personal information; dissemination of false rumours; identity theft from social media accounts; impersonating another person online; sharing private messages; creating hate websites/social media pages; excluding people from online groups; flaming, or using purposeful extreme or offensive language in order to get into online arguments and fights; and cyber stalking (PHE, 2014; Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, 2019; Family Lives, no date).Socio-economic or educational disadvantage, disability, minority ethnic origin (some groups) and LGBT status are also indicators of a high risk for cyberbullying.Metrics and numeric limitsUNESCO reports that Cyberbullying is a widespread issue affecting children worldwide, with half of children in Europe, 60% in the USA, and a third in South Africa reporting experiences. In the USA, it's the top classroom concern for teachers (UNESCO, 2021). Key relevant UN convention / multilateral treatyThe United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1990) calls for the protection of children’s rights and safeguards them from all forms of violence, including cyberbullying. This convention outlines the essential rights necessary for the dignity and harmonious development of children (UN, 1990).The Convention on Countering Cybercrime, approved by a UN General Assembly committee in August 2024, provides a framework for international cooperation to address various cybercrimes, including cyberbullying. It also tackles issues such as online child sexual abuse and grooming. (UN, 2024).DriversThe drivers include widespread digital access, unregulated platform use, anonymity online, and algorithmic amplification of harmful content. ImpactsCyberbullying is a widespread issue affecting children worldwide, with half of children in Europe, 60% in the USA, and a third in South Africa reporting experiences. In the USA, it's the top classroom concern for teachers. While 84% of parents worldwide worry about online safety, 58% spend less than 30 minutes discussing it with their children. Additionally, 49% of U.S. children say their parents don’t monitor their online activity, and half admit to hiding it (UNESCO, 2021). Research has demonstrated the causal relationship between experiencing bullying and poorer health and wellbeing outcomes in children and adolescents, with potentially long-term impacts into adulthood. The negative effect of bullying has also been demonstrated among the perpetrators of bullying and not just the victims. A survey revealed that Instagram was the leading platform for cyberbullying incidents. The findings showed that 42% of young people experienced cyberbullying on Instagram, followed by 37% on Facebook and 31% on Snapchat (Ray et al., 2024).Multi-hazard contextThere is often an interaction between being bullied and bullying others; those who are both bullies and victims (bully/victims) are likely to display the worst health and social outcomes. In summary: 20% of children and young people indicate that a fear of cyber-bullies made them reluctant to go to school; 5% reported self-harm; 3% reported an attempt of suicide as a direct result of cyberbullying (UKCCIS, 2012); As an example of impacts on mental health, Maurya et al. (2022) reported on a 3-year cohort study in India reported that adolescents experiencing cyberbullying victimisation were twice more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms than their counterparts. The internet creates not only a threat for teens who could fall victim to cyberbullying – but also the potential for children to engage in online crimes, trolling, and cyberbullying themselves (Comparitech, 2024). Radicalisation and grooming are also of concern.Risk ManagementWith many children vulnerable to cyberbullying and online risks, protecting them from internet-related dangers is essential. Governments, policymakers, and digital service providers should consider implementing measures to prevent abuse within the online community (Nazir & Thabassum, 2021). Schools can play a critical role by utilizing cyberbullying assessments to identify victims and perpetrators and equipping educators with proper guidelines to address such incidents. Parents should also adopt an active role in supervising younger children’s internet use (Kavuk-Kalender & Kaaser, 2018). At-risk children should have easy access to helplines, hotlines, or awareness centres, along with legal support to tackle cyberbullying. To mitigate the significant privacy risks associated with children's personal information, robust measures must be enacted to protect their data (OECD, 2021). Since cyberbullying often occurs more covertly than traditional bullying, making it harder to detect, societal awareness and education are crucial in addressing gaps where laws and regulations may fall short. Preventive actions, such as empathy training, teacher and staff development, awareness campaigns, and technology-based solutions, can further contribute to reducing cyberbullying (Özgür, 2020).MonitoringMonitoring is complex and requires engagement from many partners. Helfrich et al (2020), in their review, reinforced the importance of parent involvement in cyberbullying prevention efforts and informed future prevention and intervention program development.ReferencesBroadband Commission for Sustainable Development, 2019. Child Online Safety: Minimizing the Risk of Violence, Abuse and Exploitation Online. Broadband Commission – a joint initiative of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Accessed 18 May 2025.Comparitech, 2024. Cyberbullying data, facts and statistics for 2018–2024. Accessed 18 May 2025.Family Lives, no date. What is Cyberbullying? Accessed 18 May 2025.Helfrich, E.L., Doty, J.L., Su, Y-W., Yourell, J.L. and Gabrielli, J., 2020. Parental views on preventing and minimizing negative effects of cyberbullying. Children and Youth Services Review, 118, 105377. Accessed 19 May 2025.International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), 2015. Guidelines for Industry on Child Online Protection: 2015 Edition. Accessed 13 January 2025.Kavuk-Kalender, M. and Keser, H., 2018. Cyberbullying awareness in secondary and high schools. World Journal on Educational Technology: Current Issues, 10(4), pp.25–36. Accessed 18 May 2025.Maurya, C., Muhammad, T., Dhillon, P. and Maurya, P., 2022. The effects of cyberbullying victimization on depression and suicidal ideation among adolescents and young adults: a three-year cohort study from India. BMC Psychiatry, 22, 599. Accessed 18 May 2025.Nazir, T. and Thabassum, L., 2021. Cyberbullying: Definition, types, effects, related factors and precautions to be taken during COVID-19 pandemic. International Journal of Indian Psychology, 9(4), pp.480–491. DOI: 10.25215/0904.047. Accessed 18 May 2025.Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 2021. OECD Legal Instruments: Recommendation on Children in the Digital Environment. Accessed 18 May 2025.Public Health England (PHE), 2014. Cyberbullying: An analysis of data from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey for England, 2014. Accessed 18 May 2025.Ray, G., McDermott, C.D. and Nicho, M., 2024. Cyberbullying on social media: Definitions, prevalence, and impact challenges. Journal of Cybersecurity, 10(1), tyae026. DOI: 10.1093/cybsec/tyae026. Accessed 17 January 2025.UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS), 2012. Virtual Violence II: Progress and Challenges in the Fight Against Cyberbullying (Pupils). Accessed 19 May 2025.United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), no date. Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it. 10 things teens want to know about cyberbullying. Accessed 19 May 2025.United Nations (UN), 1990. Convention on the Rights of the Child. United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner. Accessed 13 January 2025.United Nations (UN), 2024. United Nations Convention against Cybercrime: Strengthening International Cooperation for Combating Certain Crimes Committed by Means of Information and Communications Technology Systems and for the Sharing of Evidence in Electronic Form of Serious Crimes. Accessed 19 May 2025.United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), 2021. Tackling cyberbullying and other forms of online violence involving children and young people: Fact sheet. Accessed 18 May 2025. Cite thisUnited Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), & International Science Council (ISC). (2025). UNDRR–ISC Hazard Information Profiles – 2025 Update: TL0106 Cyberbullying United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction; International Science Council. https://www.undrr.org/terms/hips/TL0106 [Copy citation] This part of the article was originally published by UNDRR (United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction) titled "Cyberbullying," which can be accessed through this link: https://www.undrr.org/understanding-disaster-risk/terminology/hips/tl0106

1 of 5

Illustration showing a person sitting on the floor in front of a large computer monitor with their knees drawn to their chest, conveying sadness or distress. The computer screen displays a positive message in gray pixelated text: “Delete cyber-bullying; Click with KINDNESS.” The background is dark red, and computer cables are visible extending from the monitor and keyboard, symbolizing the digital environment. The image advocates for online empathy, encourages viewers to combat cyberbullying with kindness

Story

15 December 2025

World Anti-Corruption Day: Strengthening ESG and Anti-Corruption in Business

Around the world, three letters shape how businesses talk about responsibility and long-term value: ESG. It stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance standards, which guide how companies manage their impact on people, the planet, and their internal systems. Yet behind every commitment lies one element that determines whether these efforts matter: integrity. Without it, sustainability reports become words on paper. This was the conclusion of an event to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, 9 December.The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and its partners, the UN Global Compact Network Indonesia (IGCN), the Indonesia Internal Audit Community (IIAC), and the Indonesia Stock Exchange, convened the Responsible Business Forum 2025: Anti-Corruption at the Heart of ESG – Driving Sustainable Development and Impact Investment. The forum brought together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss how stronger integrity systems can support sustainable growth and responsible investment in Indonesia.ESG performance is now widely recognized as a factor influencing long-term business value, public confidence, and access to investment.Corruption remains a major barrier to effective ESG implementation. According to UNODC, corrupt practices can undermine environmental regulations, distort fair competition, and exacerbate social inequality. Ahead of International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December, UNODC and its partners are reminding us that integrity is not just a part of ESG; it is the heart. Integrity strengthens all pillars of ESGCorruption affects all three ESG pillars. It weakens environmental safeguards, enables the misuse of natural resources, fuels inequality, and undermines the governance systems that protect both people and markets.The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) offers clear guidance. Article 12 calls for stronger internal controls, transparent accounting, penalties for misconduct, and ethical conduct in the private sector. Adopted in 2003, this framework remains highly relevant as companies prepare for tighter ESG reporting and expectations. For Indonesia, aligning ESG implementation with UNCAC’s principles offers a pathway to more resilient markets and stronger investor confidence. Erik van der Veen, Head of UNODC Indonesia, noted ongoing policy reforms:“Indonesia is advancing key reforms, including the amendment of the Anti-Corruption Law. Provisions on foreign bribery and bribery in the private sector are practical tools that will push stronger compliance and clearer expectations for responsible business conduct.”He added that Indonesia’s efforts to accede to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) will further elevate standards. UNODC is supporting this process while expanding tools for the private sector—including the joint Doing Business with Integrity e-learning course with the UN Global Compact, and the UNODC Business Integrity Portal, which provides practical resources for building compliance systems. Good governance starts with personal integrityThe forum also looked at how ethics guides corporate governance. Natalia Soebagjo, Expert Panel of the National Committee on Governance Policy (KNKG), shared Indonesia’s updated corporate governance principles: Ethical Behaviour, Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability.“Ethical conduct means a company respects human rights and pays close attention to its environmental and social impact,” she said. “It is not enough to provide material and relevant information to stakeholders; that information must also be accessible and easy to understand. When transparency and accountability are strong, trust in the company grows, and investor confidence follows.”For regulators, investors, and the public to trust that every policy creates real impact, personal integrity must be reflected in company systems “Integrity is fundamental to investment. When corruption creates unequal treatment, investors cannot predict whether regulations will be enforced. That uncertainty undermines fair competition. And in the most extreme cases, it leads to state capture corruption–where private interests distort public policies and regulations–which is deeply damaging,” said Agus Joko Pramono, Vice Chair of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).He also underscored these keys for ethical ESG:“First, the tone from the top is crucial. Leaders must clearly express and demonstrate that integrity matters. Second, organizations must play by the rules through integrity-based systems such as anti-bribery management, whistleblowing mechanisms, and HR policies that reflect strong values.” Transparency and data availability are keyTransparency is a non-negotiable element of ESG credibility. Yet, as Danang Widyoko, Secretary General of Transparency International, highlighted, Indonesian companies still face gaps:“Not all data is available, and not all companies are willing to publish their ESG information.”He also emphasised that current ESG indicators in Indonesia still lean heavily toward environmental aspects, with limited attention to social and governance aspects.To help address these gaps, Transparency International Indonesia, together with Tempo, is developing an ESG rating using a new methodology. The rating is expected to be launched in mid-December. The rating aims to provide a more balanced, clear, and accessible view of corporate ESG performance.The private sector has a central role in strengthening integrity across the ESG agenda. By embedding anti-corruption into sustainability strategies, strengthening data and transparency, and grounding corporate leadership in ethics, Indonesia’s private sector can unlock stronger investment, greater resilience, and sustainable growth for all. The message is clear: responsible business is not only good ethics—it is good economics.

1 of 5

Story

01 December 2025

World AIDS Day 2025: Community-led monitoring helps increase access to HIV treatment in Aceh

BANDA ACEH – Access to treatment and self-discipline: these are the two key ingredients for those who are HIV-positive to stay healthy – says Anas, head of the Aceh chapter of the Positive Indonesia Network (JIP), an advocacy and support group of people living with HIV. It’s been JIP’s mission to support those infected with HIV and to advocate for prevention and early detection for over a decade across the country, including in Aceh. “A lot has changed in the last 15 years,” Anas says. “Most importantly, everyone now has access to quality treatment as HIV treatment is provided by the government free of charge.”However, living with HIV is still not easy anywhere, including in Banda Aceh. “Many of the HIV+ people I know lost their jobs after their bosses found out about the diagnosis,” said a former waiter living with HIV who asked not to be identified. He was diagnosed with HIV in 2011 and started HIV treatment soon after. He has been completely symptom free with his viral load below the level at which transmission can occur. “Still, we now know better and do not discuss it,” he said.In Aceh, Indonesia’s only province with sharia law, talking about sex is taboo and HIV can be seen as a moral issue. Getting people at risk to access HIV services can be a challenge due to stigma associated with HIV. There are around 650,000 people in the country living with HIV, two thirds of them young men. Increasingly, new HIV cases are reported among young men across the country,
including in Aceh.“There are around 50 new HIV positive diagnoses per year in Aceh, a number that is significantly higher than a few years ago”, said says Yunidar Redmi, the representative of the Indonesian Family Planning Association (PKBI) in Banda Aceh. PKBI has been actively working to conduct community outreach to promote HIV testing and prevention services with support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.“Many people who were HIV positive or suspected they may be so were scared to go to hospitals because of stigmatization,” said Chandra Mohammad, liaison officer at JIP headquarters in Jakarta. “This should no longer be the case as HIV treatment is fully subsidized, and the HIV programme is one of the national priorities on health.”To support the government in reaching more people living with HIV with quality HIV treatment, JIP is spearheading community-led monitoring on HIV with support from the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). Under what is called community-led monitoring, people affected by HIV systematically monitor services, analyze the data they collect and contact evidence-driven advocacy to improve service delivery. “Community-led monitoring is increasingly recognized by authorities as a tool to improve the effectiveness, quality and acceptability of HIV program. If services are available, high quality and stigma-free, more people will seek diagnosis and treatment,” said Elis Widen, Community Support Adviser at UNAIDS Indonesia.In Indonesia, community-led monitoring has been in place since 2020; community cells operate in 22 provinces and involve over 900 volunteers. In addition to UNAIDS support, community-led monitoring has also been supported by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria across all HIV priority districts in Indonesia.“We are pleased with the initiative from the national network of people living with HIV in Indonesia to spearhead community-led monitoring, including in Aceh,” said Prima Yosephine, Acting Director of Communicable Disease at the country’s Ministry of Health. “Feedback on HIV services is essential for strengthening the quality, accessibility, and continuity of care. This initiative demonstrates how meaningful community engagement can enhance early diagnosis, support treatment adherence, and contribute to reducing new infections. We remain committed to working closely with community partners to ensure that no one is left behind in the national HIV response.”

1 of 5

Story

24 November 2025

Cream of the Crop: Financial inclusion boosts productivity, increases sales, and improves livelihoods in Central Indonesia

PANGALENGAN, WEST JAVA, INDONESIA – Among the rolling hills of Indonesia’s West Java province, thousands of farmers are reaping tangible benefits from the digitization of their businesses and improved access to finance, thanks in part to a United Nations‑supported project.Members of the South Bandung Farming Cooperative (KPBS) have recorded a 38% increase in productive loans and a 43% rise in sales volumes over the past two years, following the introduction of a new app used as an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution. “Easier access to financing means higher loan volumes, which in turn means more cattle and higher income for our farmers,” said Head of KBPS Aun Gunawan. “This is how financial inclusion leads to improved livelihoods.” Founded in 1969, KPBS has 5,000 members and produces 70,000 tons of milk a day. The cooperative operates its own dairy plant, using around 15% of its milk production to manufacture yoghurt and mozzarella cheese, while the remainder is sold to dairy companies in the region. In addition, the cooperative runs a hospital, veterinary service, and a bank—all designed to support members and enhance their well‑being and competitiveness. Holistic and healthy"We take a holistic approach, and for us it is all about health—not only the health of farmers and their cattle, but also financial health,” Mr Gunawan explained to the heads of United Nations agencies in Indonesia, who visited KPBS as part of their annual Leadership Dialogue on shaping the UN’s trajectory in the country.The International Labour Organization (ILO) is now supporting the cooperative in implementing this vision, leveraging digitization to strengthen financial inclusion. The project is implemented in cooperation with the Indonesian Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Coordinating Ministry of Economic Affairs. “KPBS was already a strong, well‑managed business before our involvement,” said Simrin Singh, ILO Country Director for Indonesia and Timor‑Leste. “The tools we have provided have catalyzed further improvements and enhanced livelihoods.”Through the ERP system—introduced by the ILO under a project funded by the Government of Switzerland—farmers can now track their income and expenses, including the cost of fodder provided by the cooperative. They also have 24/7 access to the cooperative’s veterinarians, who can reach farms within 30 minutes. The app records individual animals’ veterinary data, including vaccination schedules, enabling milk collection points to segregate milk from recently vaccinated cows. If mixed with regular milk, such milk could reduce the day’s overall quality—and therefore the selling price. Higher volume, better price“These practical improvements have contributed not only to higher volumes but also to better prices per litre sold,” Mr Gunawan said.The most significant impact, however, has been improved access to finance. The cooperative has operated its own bank since 1993 to provide farmers with credit. With the ERP system, loan applications have become simpler and more accessible, Ms Singh explained. The bank can now view farmers’ financial data—income, liquidity, and outstanding debt—directly through the system, resulting in a higher rate of approved applications.Applications have also increased. With the integrated ERP tool, farmers no longer need to travel and queue to complete forms; they can apply directly through the app, where their financial history is already recorded and available to the lending team. “This may sound like a matter of convenience, but it is far more than that,” said dairy farmer Encih Mintarsih. “Farmers cannot easily leave their cattle for half a day, let alone multiple times, to submit an application that may not even be approved. “Now we can apply online and spend our time productively. That makes us far more likely to pursue financing,” she added. Toward food self‑sufficiencyProgrammes like this have broader national relevance: strengthening domestic food production and self‑reliance is a top priority for the Government of Indonesia. The country currently imports around 80% of its dairy products. Enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of local milk producers contributes directly to national self‑sufficiency goals.It also provides a model for inclusive rural economic growth.“In an upper‑middle‑income country like Indonesia, the digital transformation of the economy and improved access to finance are essential for progressing toward high‑income status,” said Gita Sabharwal, UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia. “For this reason, in close consultation with the Government, digitalization and access to finance are key priorities of the new cooperation framework between the UN and Indonesia.”The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), signed in August 2025 and aligned with the SDGs and Indonesia’s national development agenda, outlines how the UN will contribute to three transformative outcomes in the country, including Economic and Digital Transformation.“This outstanding programme by the ILO demonstrates how the UN can complement the Government’s efforts to accelerate inclusive development using modern technology,” Ms Sabharwal said.The project contributes directly to OJK’s Rural Bank Transformation Blueprint, strengthens the inclusive financial ecosystem model, and supports the efforts of the National Committee on Financial Literacy and Inclusion to improve financial literacy and inclusion. It also aligns with national priorities to digitize small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and boost productivity through digital tools,“In Indonesia, 90% of jobs are created by SMEs—so improving their competitiveness is critical to ensuring decent work,” Ms Singh said. The intent is for this approach to be rolled out more widely across the country.What advice does Mr Gunawan have for other cooperatives and policymakers? “Show farmers clear and tangible benefits, and they will quickly adopt digital technologies,” he said. “Buzzwords like ‘digitization’ and ‘financial inclusion’ must be translated into their daily reality—just as we have done here with the support of the ILO and the UN.”This article was first published on the UN News site https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/11/1166425, 23 November 2025

1 of 5

A worker at the KPBS cooperative holds up a dairy product.

Story

14 October 2025

Data-Driven Partnership: How the UN supports BPS to turn data into action for Indonesia’s development

The Government of Indonesia and the United Nations share a clear goal: to make every development decision count for the people who need it most. The new agreement between the Government and the UN, called UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026–2030, and signed earlier this year, builds on this shared vision anchored in Indonesia’s long-term and medium-term national development plans—ensuring that national priorities and UN programmes are guided by clear evidence and reliable data.That is where Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the country’s national statistics office and one of the UN’s closest partners, plays a key role in ensuring the availability of high-quality data that measures progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This, in turn, informs national and subnational implementation plans for socioeconomic development.“Our deep partnership with BPS ensures that development decisions are informed by granular, accurate, and timely data,” said Gita Sabharwal, the UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia. “Our results framework is fully aligned with the government data. It’s a reflection of Indonesia’s solid statistical foundation.”The collaboration runs deep and wide, spanning population dynamics, food security, big data, migration, labour markets, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for policy analysis. Here are some of the ways this collaboration is making a difference:United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) works with BPS on population and demographic analysis, including the population census and National Transfer Accounts, which help policymakers plan fiscal support and social protection for an aging population.Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) collaborates with BPS in implementing its national agricultural survey programme and pilot rice crop monitoring through satellite imagery and advanced analytics—improving agricultural productivity data. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) partners with BPS on the Early Childhood Development Index (ECDI) using SUSENAS data, while also developing child poverty assessments reinforced by nightlight observation to capture invisible dimensions of poverty.World Food Programme (WFP), UNFPA and UNICEF jointly work with BPS on small-area estimation methods to generate SDG indicators at the subnational level, helping local governments design data-driven development plans (for more details, see this article).International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UNFPA collaborate through the One Data for International Migration initiative, integrating migration statistics into the national data ecosystem.ILO and UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific are finalising a new collaboration with BPS leveraging big data for near real-time insights on employment levels and well-being in addition to ILOs support for the labour market survey (SAKERNAS). Beyond national borders, BPS also leads as the UN Regional Big Data Hub for Asia and the Pacific, in partnership with UNDESA and UNESCAP. This role positions Indonesia as a key driver of data innovation and capacity building for statisticians across the region. This year, three major capacity-building initiatives on machine learning, mobile positioning data, and biodiversity, brought together statisticians from across Asia to exchange knowledge and strengthen expertise.“With more than 20,000 statisticians nationwide and more than 200 national surveys conducted annually, BPS continues to uphold its reputation for excellence, working hand in hand with the UN and government partners to ensure that data truly serves people,” said Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, Head of BPS.

1 of 5

Dozens of people are posing the signature BPS sign with hands inside a room

Story

10 October 2025

How an Advanced Statistical Method Helps Power Data-Driven Development in Indonesia

Navigating development in a country as vast and diverse as Indonesia can be like reading a map with missing details. Imagine trying to plan a journey across a vast archipelago with such a reference. That is often the challenge policymakers face when trying to address issues like maternal mortality, neonatal deaths, poverty, malnutrition and unequal education at the local level.When we measure macroeconomic progress, we often look at the big picture: national statistics and country-wide trends. But in a vast country of 17,000 islands with thousands of districts and cities, how do we ensure that every community is counted, and no one is left behind? When geographically nuanced data from surveys and administrative statistics are not fully available, an advanced statistical method can help bridge critical data gaps: Small Area Estimation (SAE).In Indonesia, with the support of the UN, this sophisticated method is helping statisticians and policymakers transform fragmented data into actionable insights that inform effective policy decisions, targeted budget planning, and enhanced implementation. Statistics Indonesia, the nation’s primary statistical body, is increasingly utilising this method, strengthening the country’s data ecosystem and ensuring that development efforts reach the most marginalised communities.The UN Population Fund (UNFPA), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) have been instrumental in supporting the development of a comprehensive Small Area Estimation Implementation Framework at Statistics Indonesia. Developed between October 2024 and June 2025, this Framework standardises estimation processes across institutions, ensuring results that are consistent and reliable. Supported by the Joint SDG Fund, the initiative also builds officials’ capacity to use the SAE method effectively and impactfully for decision-making.“With Small Area Estimation, we are not just crunching numbers; we are empowering local leaders with the precise information they need to transform lives, ensuring that every corner of Indonesia—from bustling cities to remote villages—truly benefits from the nation's progress,” highlights Gita Sabharwal, the Resident Coordinator in Indonesia. Filling the gaps with granular dataTraditional surveys, while robust for national or provincial estimates, often lack the granularity needed for district- or city-specific interventions. That is where SAE comes in, acting like a high-resolution lens that brings local realities into focus. It combines survey data with additional sources, like census or administrative data, to generate reliable estimates for small geographic areas and produce statistically sound figures for smaller administrative units. This helps shape highly tailored and localised solutions.“Indonesia, with its immense diversity, requires equally diverse and localised policy interventions. With granular data, we can now analyse data in much greater detail at the local level, allowing for evidence-based policies tailored to specific community needs,” said Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, the Head of Statistics Indonesia. “This also helps in identifying vulnerable groups and areas with higher needs, ensuring development interventions are more effective.” From Data to PracticeInformation and data harvested through SAE are now informing policymaking at the national and subnational level, enhancing how Indonesia monitors progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.For example, with UNFPA’s support, Indonesia leverages this framework to estimate crucial demographic indicators, including the neonatal mortality rate, maternal mortality rate, contraceptive prevalence rate, unmet need for family planning and age-specific fertility rate (ages 10-14), at the sub-national level. These insights enable the Government to design precisely targeted interventions where they are needed most.Findings reveal persistently higher maternal mortality in eastern Indonesia, particularly in Papua and East Nusa Tenggara, evidence that guides strategies to reduce the Maternal Mortality Ratio through context-specific and innovative solutions tailored to local realities and resources. By aligning interventions with each region’s unique challenges, Indonesia can promote more equitable and effective maternal health outcomes nationwide. This evidence-based targeting ensures resources are directed where they will have the greatest impact, maximising returns and fostering sustainable impact. “These are not just numbers,” said Hassan Mohtashami, UNFPA Indonesia’s Country Representative. “They are life-and-death indicators. When we understand where maternal or neonatal deaths are most prevalent, we can work with the government to prioritise the right interventions, in the right places.”Using SAE, Statistics Indonesia, with support from UNICEF, mapped child poverty across several provinces. By integrating big data, satellite imagery, and data from the National Socio-Economic Survey, the 2020 Population Census, and Village Potential data, the team revealed a much sharper picture than traditional direct estimation methods could capture. This detailed understanding has been crucial for designing effective poverty reduction programmes that target the most affected communities.For its part, WFP has been supporting Indonesia’s National Food Agency in applying SAE to publish the annual Food Security and Vulnerability Atlas, which maps vulnerability at the sub-district level to inform food security policy. Building on this, development efforts have been directed towards villages in West Kalimantan where chronic undernutrition remains a pressing issue. Collective Wins"The support from the UN is tangible proof of the importance of cross-agency and international partnerships in driving innovation and strengthening statistical governance in Indonesia," said Ms. Widyasanti.Under the leadership of the Resident Coordinator’s Office, UNFPA, UNICEF and WFP have worked together to build capacity not only at the national level, but also among Statistics Indonesia’s branches throughout the country. Ms. Widyasanti explained that these estimations are now regularly used to inform policymaking across several line ministries. Refining this approachWhile small area estimation offers immense potential, its implementation is not without challenges. The method's success depends on high-quality data, technical expertise and broad institutional buy-in. Furthermore, its statistical complexity requires rigorous transparency and validation to ensure that results are consistent and replicable, making a unified, well-supported framework essential for its widespread and effective use.“By continuously refining the framework, enhancing data quality, and fostering collaboration between national and sub-national stakeholders, Indonesia is well on its way to building a robust, data-driven foundation for equitable and sustainable development,” points out RC Gita Sabharwal. This article was first published on the UN DCO site https://un-dco.org/stories/how-advanced-statistical-method-helps-power-data-driven-development-indonesia, 9 October 2025

1 of 5

A mother and a newly-born child sits on a bed, a midwife helps with the blanket of the baby

View all

Press Release

14 February 2026

First in Indonesia: Jakarta Launches SDGs Corner at Museum Bahari to Engage Jakarta Youth

JAKARTA, 14 February 2026 – At Museum Bahari Jakarta, the Jakarta Provincial Government and the United Nations in Indonesia today launched the country’s first-ever SDGs Corner — a museum-based space dedicated to bringing the Sustainable Development Goals closer to young people and the public.“Jakarta is moving forward as a Global City, and that progress must go hand in hand with sustainability and inclusion,” said Vice Governor of DKI Jakarta Rano Karno. “As a coastal city, we face real environmental challenges. Through this SDGs Corner, we connect development, climate action, and community awareness in a way that is accessible to everyone.”Inaugurated together with UNIC Indonesia Director Miklos Gaspar, the SDGs Corner introduces a new way of learning about sustainable development through Indonesia’s maritime heritage. It uses storytelling to highlight the links between marine life, coastal communities, waste management, food security, and climate change.Designed as an interactive narrative space, the Corner helps visitors see the SDGs not as distant global goals, but as part of everyday life — especially for maritime communities that have shaped Indonesia for centuries.The initiative also promotes inclusivity by ensuring equal access for persons with disabilities, reflecting Jakarta’s commitment to sustainable and people-centered urban development.“By placing the SDGs inside a cultural space, we make global goals real and relevant to local life,” said Miklos Gaspar. “This pilot shows young Indonesians that protecting the ocean and the climate begins with understanding their own heritage.”The space was jointly developed with Musee ID, a community that transforms museum storytelling into a modern learning experience. “Museums should inspire action, not just preserve history,” said Nofa Farida Lestari, Director of Musee ID. “We created the SDGs Corner as an inclusive, engaging space that speaks to today’s situation.The UN is committed to supporting museums and public spaces in establishing SDGs Corners with locally tailored messages.

1 of 5

Press Release

12 February 2026

New Report from UN Trade and Development Outlines a Roadmap for Indonesia to Boost E-commerce and Digital Trade, Empowering MSMEs to Reach Domestic and Global Markets

Jakarta, 12 February 2026 – Indonesia, South-East Asia’s largest digital economy, took an important step today with the national launch of its eTrade Readiness Assessment (eT Ready) – a comprehensive strategic review of the country’s e-commerce and digital trade ecosystem.Requested by the Government of Indonesia and developed jointly with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, the assessment provides an evidence-based roadmap to advance inclusive, competitive, and sustainable e-commerce and digital trade. The initiative was made possible with the support of Australia.The report outlines a strategic roadmap to strengthen Indonesia’s e-commerce ecosystem, boosting Indonesia’s participation in regional and global digital markets through encouraging the market access of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), expanded digital payments, and stronger governance and regulatory coordination.Valued at around USD 90 billion in 2024, Indonesia’s digital economy accounts for over one-third of ASEAN’s total. As the region’s only G20 member, Indonesia places digital trade at the heart of its development strategy, reflected in the “Golden Indonesia Vision 2045” to become a high-income, globally competitive economy.“Indonesia shows how digital transformation can become a driver of competitiveness and inclusion at the same time,” said Mr. Pedro Manuel Moreno, Deputy Secretary-General of UNCTAD. “The eTrade Readiness Assessment supports the Government’s efforts to strengthen coordination, empower MSMEs to access online markets, build trust in digital transactions and ensure that Indonesia’s digital economy continues to grow in a resilient and sustainable way.”The assessment marks the first UNCTAD eTrade Readiness Assessment conducted in a G20 country and the first to integrate environmental sustainability considerations into the analysis of the e-commerce and digital trade ecosystem, reflecting Indonesia’s commitment to ensuring that digital growth contributes to Sustainable Development Goals. It underscores Indonesia’s proactive leadership in shaping digital trade policy across emerging and advanced economies.The eTrade Readiness Assessment provides a comprehensive review of Indonesia’s e-commerce and digital trade ecosystem, covering policy and institutional coordination, technology adoption and infrastructure, MSME participation, legal and regulatory frameworks, digital payments, and financial inclusion. It also integrates cross-cutting priorities, including the participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, informal actors, and communities in rural and underserved areas, to help ensure that digital transformation benefits all.The report, which draws on extensive consultations with national and regional stakeholders across Indonesia, shows strong progress in connectivity, digital payments, and local e-commerce platforms. It offers practical steps to enhance coordination, improve logistics and delivery, build digital skills and facilitate procedures for entrepreneurs, strengthen data protection and cybersecurity, and expand access to finance and digital services for online businesses.

“The findings of this assessment will help guide Indonesia’s efforts to strengthen its e-commerce and digital trade ecosystem and foster greater alignment, so that Indonesia’s digital economy grows not only faster, but also fairer, safer, and more resilient,” said the Director of International Trade of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Dr. Ditya Agung Nurdianto. “Through close collaboration and coordinated action with UNCTAD and national stakeholders, Indonesia is committed to advancing a digital economy that is inclusive, sustainable, and resilient.”The launch event brought together policymakers, business leaders, academia, civil society, and development partners. The discussion focused on turning national priorities into practical actions that support jobs, innovation, and inclusive growth across Indonesia.The Indonesia eTrade Readiness Assessment is part of UNCTAD’s global eTrade for all initiative, a UN-led global partnership committed to empowering countries to harness digital transformation in a sustainable and inclusive manner, to support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
About UNCTADUN Trade and Development helps developing countries benefit from the global economy more fairly and effectively, providing research, analysis, technical assistance, and consensus-building support on trade, investment, finance, and technology.About the eTrade Readiness AssessmentsUNCTAD’s eTrade Readiness Assessments provide an analysis of a country or region’s e-commerce and digital trade ecosystem, highlighting key opportunities and constraints, as well as actionable recommendations to strengthen inclusive and sustainable development.

1 of 5

Press Release

03 February 2026

Indonesia Showcases Peacekeeper Readiness Against Mines and IED Threats to UN Delegation

Bogor, 3 February 2026 — The Indonesian National Armed Forces Peacekeeping Centre (PMPP TNI) today demonstrated its Explosive Hazard Awareness Training on Improvised Explosive Devices (EHAT–IED) in Sentul, Bogor, as part of an official visit by the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) delegation from 2–6 February 2026.The exercise showcased the preparedness of Indonesian peacekeepers in responding to threats from landmines, unexploded ordnance (UXO), and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) — some of the most serious risks faced in UN mission areas.Commander of PMPP TNI, Brigadier General Iwan Bambang Setiawan, reaffirmed Indonesia’s long-standing commitment to global peacekeeping.“Indonesia continues to contribute actively to world peace through diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, and direct participation in UN peacekeeping missions,” he said. “More than 50,000 Indonesian peacekeepers have served in UN operations worldwide, reflecting our strong and consistent commitment.”He added that specialized training such as EHAT–IED is essential to protect both peacekeepers and local communities in conflict-affected areas.The UNMAS delegation, led by Team Leader Raymond Kemei and Training Officer David Markus Fritschi, observed practical simulations including explosive detection using K-9 units, robotic evacuation, safe disposal procedures, and field safety protocols.The visit strengthens cooperation between PMPP TNI and UNMAS in enhancing mine action and IED training, supporting the operational readiness of Indonesian peacekeepers deployed to UN missions.The event was attended by representatives from TNI Headquarters, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PMPP TNI instructors, UNMAS, and the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Indonesia.

1 of 5

Press Release

25 October 2025

From Borobudur to Monas, Indonesia Turns UN Blue to Mark 80 Years of the United Nations

To mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and commemorate United Nations Day, Indonesia joined countries around the world in the global #UNBlue campaign by illuminating three of its most iconic landmarks in the official blue of the United Nations. The National Monument (Monas) and the Bundaran HI intersection in Central Jakarta as well as the Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java were illuminated on 24 October, 80 years to the day when the UN Charter entered into force. The colour blue, which features on the UN flag, symbolizes peace, unity and hope. Launched in 2015 to celebrate the UN’s 70th anniversary, the UN blue campaign has since grown into a global tradition that unites countries, cities and communities to mark the shared values and achievements of the United Nations. From Rome to Rio, from Nairobi to New York, hundreds of landmarks – including the Pyramids of Giza, the Eiffel Tower and the Sydney Opera House – have been bathed in UN blue over the years. “By joining the #UNBlue campaign, Indonesia reaffirmed to the world its enduring commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation,” said Miklos Gaspar, Director of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Jakarta. “Illuminating its own iconic landmarks in UN blue reflects Indonesia’s pride in its cultural heritage and its role as a nation that stands for peace and for unity in diversity.”A special highlight of this year’s celebration was the illumination of Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Buddhist monument in the world. Built during the Shailendra Dynasty on the turn of the 8th and 9th centuries, Borobudur stands as a masterpiece of ancient Javanese civilization reflecting human creativity, ingenuity and spiritual reflection. Its return to the UN blue campaign this year carried added significance, as Borobudur last participated in the global initiative during the UN’s 70th anniversary in 2015.Members of the public were encouraged to join the celebration by visiting the blue-lit landmarks, taking photos or videos, and sharing them on social media. The campaign invited everyone to take part in this visual expression of unity and to show support for the values that the UN represents.

1 of 5

View all