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.

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Publication

07 October 2024

United Nations in Indonesia Country Results Report 2023

As the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) draws near, intensified collaboration between the Government of Indonesia and the United Nations is key in accelerating progress towards the SDGs. This report highlights the collective efforts of the government and the UN not only to meet the SDG targets but also to explore innovative solutions in financing, data collection, and the integration of advanced technologies for monitoring progress.This report encapsulates the dynamic partnership between Indonesia and the UN, emphasizing key achievements under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). From advancing inclusive human development to promoting green initiatives and innovation, our joint work aligns closely with Indonesia’s national development priorities. For a comprehensive look at the UN's initiatives and Indonesia's progress towards the SDGs, please download the full report available below.

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Publication

07 June 2023

Better Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights for All in Indonesia (BERANI) Programme Fact Sheet

The Government of Indonesia, UNFPA, and UNICEF have been working together through the Better Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights for All in Indonesia (BERANI) Programme from 2018 to 2023. This joint effort aims to improve sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and young people across the country. Under the BERANI Programme, several key areas have been focused on, including enhancing midwifery education and regulation, strengthening partnerships to improve family planning, providing youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services and information, strengthening the health sector's response to gender-based violence, and community outreach and empowerment. Throughout the programme, significant achievements have been made. Over 20 policies, advocacy strategies, and roadmaps were developed to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights. Midwifery education centers have implemented high-quality standards, leading to increased pass rates in national competency exams. Private clinics have been strengthened to provide quality youth-friendly services, and community health centers have been capacitated to respond effectively to gender-based violence. Additionally, a considerable number of young people have benefited from the programme. Thousands of adolescents have received comprehensive sexuality education and information on menstrual hygiene management. Digital content creators have been trained to develop sexual and reproductive health-related content, reaching a combined audience of over 600,000 young people. The BERANI Programme highlights the commitment to leaving no one behind, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services and information. The BERANI fact sheet is downloadable through the button below this article. #BERANI #ReproductiveHealth #GenderEquality

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Better Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights for All in Indonesia (BERANI) Programme Fact Sheet Cover

Story

29 May 2023

Baristas behind bars: From serving time to serving lattes

Perfectly foamed milk. A delicate butterfly enswirled atop. A bittersweet tang on the palate. A perfect cappuccino? It is beyond that. This particular cup was masterfully frothed and served by Denny, an inmate in Tangerang, west of Jakarta, who joined a UN-supported training programme to help prisoners to re-integrate into society after serving time. “I want to make the most of my time, even in prison, and this training should help me find a job later,” said Denny, 31, who has just over two years left of a five-year prison sentence. “Of course, I knew how to make a coffee before, but here I am learning about different flavours, smells and aromas, and about the artistic side of coffee making.” Denny is one of 200 inmates in the Tangerang Class IIA Correctional Facility and among more than 35,000 inmates across Indonesia who are involved in vocational training, from eco-printing on textiles to farming. While learning how to be a barista behind bars, he said he hopes to get a job in a café following his release. Salis Farida Fitriani, who heads the correctional facility, said the programme aims at building a better future, but skills training alone is not enough for inmates to succeed in the outside world. To deal with a society that often stigmatizes them for life, she said, the prison offers training in personality development, counselling, and religious teaching. “Our goal is to provide positive activities and training for the inmates,” she said. “The programme includes personality development as well as vocational training to help with their future livelihoods.” Breaking the ‘ex-con’ stigma Starting a business is hard after serving time in prison, said Haswin, a 32-year-old former drug offender. Leaving the Tangerang correctional facility in January 2022, he now operates his own coffee shop, mixing modern and traditional coffee styles alongside mocktails and snacks. “Life is so much better now,” said Haswin, adding that his former bartending job was a prime factor in his involvement with drug-related offences that led to his arrest in 2018. “I am more content with life and proud of my creativity,” he explained. “I had never thought I could find a career outside nightlife.” Now, his work is not just a “means to make ends meet”, but a new opportunity. “I want to break the stigma around ‘ex-cons’ by showing that former offenders can also be independent and creative,” he said. From sports to university programmes Tangerang Class IIA gives prisoners a chance to do that. They can also compete in professional sports at Tangerang, a prison unique in Indonesia for offering a full university education programme. Open to prisoners across Indonesia, a pilot programme currently serving 200 inmates is poised to roll out countrywide, subject to funding, Ms. Fitriani said. Asep, a third-year Islamic studies student with Syekh Yusuf Islamic University, said he, like many in the programme, could not afford to go to university in his life before prison. “I was always keen to learn, but my economic situation did not make it possible for me to study,” he said. Following the same curriculum the university offers to its regular students, Asep and his schoolmates attend classes thrice weekly for six hours each day. After graduation and before the end of his prison sentence, Asep said he hopes to help his fellow prisoners by offering religious counselling. “I get to learn a lot about the world and about life outside,” he said. “It helps me cope better with my long sentence. It will help the others, too.” Tailored to inmates’ needs Supported by the UN Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC), the training programmes are designed with help from a set of assessment tools that provide evidence-based approaches tailored to inmates’ individual needs. Corrections officers use these tools to evaluate and better understand inmates, including the level of security risk they may pose, their compatibility with the programme, and their likely response to education. Within UNODC’s prisoner rehabilitation initiative, which focuses on education, vocational training, and employment during incarceration, the goal is to contribute to the prisoners’ employability after release, thus reducing chances of recidivism. With this in mind, the agency partnered with Indonesia’s Directorate-General of Corrections to create an assessment matrix that helps corrections officers to build psychological and security profiles of prisoners and enables staff to keep track of their progress, said Rabby Pramudatama, a programme manager at UNODC’s Jakarta office. “We need to make sure, for instance, that we get inmates who are unlikely to disturb the classes and will cooperate with teachers and their fellow students,” he said. Second chances UNODC also collaborates and supports such non-governmental organizations as Second Chance, which help inmates to reintegrate into society once they are out of the facility. On a quiet morning, some inmates were reviewing verses from the Quran, while others gathered around to watch a pair of sparring kickboxers. As rain set in, they spoke of the sunshine that was bound to break through, sooner or later. For Denny, he said the sunshine will come on the day when he, too, can get out and find a job. “My main drive right now is to be a better person than I was before,” he said, adding that until that day, he will focus on religious activities and brewing perfect cappuccinos in barista classes. Learn more about how UNODC is helping to reform prisons across the world here. This article was initially published by UN News in this link: https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/06/1137212

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Publication

30 May 2023

UN in Indonesia Newsletter 2023 Volume 1

We are pleased to present the first edition of the UN in Indonesia Newsletter for the year 2023. This newsletter provides an overview of the significant work carried out by the United Nations in Indonesia from January to April, highlighting our commitment to sustainable development and inclusivity. In this edition, our focus is on SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By fostering strong collaborations and partnerships between governments, private sector, and civil society, we aim to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and creating a better future for all. Through the newsletter, we strive to bring the United Nations closer to the people we serve, ensuring that no one is left behind in our pursuit of sustainable development. It features inspiring stories from various UN agencies in Indonesia, showcasing their remarkable initiatives and efforts in promoting inclusivity and advancing sustainable development goals. One of the featured projects in this edition sheds light on the vocational training program at the Tangerang Class IIA Correctional Facility. With the support of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), this program equips prisoners with essential skills to facilitate their successful reintegration into society after completing their sentences. It exemplifies our commitment to empowering individuals and contributing to positive social change. As we navigate the post-pandemic era, it is imperative that we make up for the lost time and expedite our efforts towards achieving the SDGs. By strengthening our collective impact and forging new pathways, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive world for present and future generations. You can access the downloadable newsletter in both English and Bahasa Indonesia below of this page. Together, let us make a lasting difference and work towards a world where everyone can thrive.

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Press Release

12 August 2024

MoFA and UNIDO promote international cooperation in support of IKN development

Joint Press ReleaseMinistry of Foreign Affairs of Republic Indonesia and United Nations Industrial Development Organization Jakarta 12 August 2024 - Indonesia is actively developing its new capital city, IKN, as a symbol of national unity and progress. As a new hub for economic growth, IKN is envisioned to be a green, smart, inclusive and sustainable city. To achieve this vision, Indonesia needs to manage IKN growth carefully to ensure it truly grows and avoids common urban problems, such as congestion, overpopulation, and pollution.In support of this goal, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) organise the Bridge for Cities Workshop themed “Cities of Tomorrow: Collaborative Strategies for New Cities” at Fairmont, Jakarta, on 12 August 2024. UNIDO is a UN agency that focuses on sustainable industrial capacity building.The workshop features 17 international and Indonesian speakers. With 70 participants from various ministries, universities, NGOs, research institutes, and other stakeholders, the event focuses on three key issues in urban development: (i) economic growth and productivity, (ii) environmentally friendly development, and (iii) innovative financing.In his opening remarks at the workshop, Ambassador Tri Tharyat, Director General for Multilateral Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated, “The development of IKN requires close collaboration with various parties, including international cooperation, to attract investment and gain knowledge, experience, and best practices in urban development. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to strengthen international cooperation to support the development of IKN.”Meanwhile, Mr. Jie Zhao, Chief of the Regional Coordination Bureau for Asia-Pacific at UNIDO, commended Indonesia for the visionary and well-planned development of IKN. Ms. Gita Sabharwal, UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia, expressed her readiness to collaborate in mobilizing urban development funding through blended financing schemes, as demonstrated in the Indonesia-UN partnership for funding programs that empower women and youth.The Head of the Regional Infrastructure Development Agency of the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, representing the Acting Head of IKN, highlighted the achievements and rapid progress in IKN’s infrastructure development, including the completion of the Garuda Palace and the Pulau Balang bridge. One of the speakers, Mr Alfonso Vegara from Fundación Metrópoli, Spain, suggested that Indonesia optimize the potential of Balikpapan and Samarinda, particularly in providing skilled labour to accelerate IKN’s growth and achieve economic integration.The collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UNIDO in this workshop serves as a strategic starting point that could lead to further, tangible, and impactful collaboration in both IKN's development and joint efforts to address urbanization challenges. In the near future, Indonesia will share its experiences in developing IKN with other countries at the Bridge for Cities event at UNIDO Headquarters in Vienna, Austria, in October 2024.--- 000 --- Source:• Directorate of Trade, Industry, Commodities and Intellectual Property, Ministry of Foreign Affairs• United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Country Office in Indonesia

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Story

12 October 2024

Twenty years on: Indonesia’s disaster preparedness has much improved in the wake of the 21st century’s largest natural disaster

Simeulue, Aceh – When Ahmadi sings a lullaby to his one-year-old grandson, the songs include one that is not about boats and stars but instead about precautions to take during a possible tsunami:A village once sank,That’s how they tell the tale,It began with an earthquake,Followed by a massive wave,The entire land submerged,Suddenly, just like that. If the quake is strong And the waters recede, Quickly find A higher place to be.That is called smong,The history of our ancestors. Remember this well. “When there is an earthquake and a tsunami, you are in panic, you cannot be expected to think,” said Ahmadi, who like many Indonesians has only one name. “This is why the emergency drill must be engrained and be second nature. This has to start from an early age.” Despite being the closest inhabited island to the epicentre of the earthquake that caused the largest tsunami so far in this century, the death toll on Simeulue was relatively low. Six inhabitants died on this island of 100,000 – a lower rate than in any other affected area – after what was the third largest earthquake anywhere in the world since modern seismography began in 1900. “This was due to the local wisdom passed on from generation to generation in the form of a smong,” said Acting Regent Teuku Reza Fahlevi. The inhabitants of Simeulue had experienced a tsunami in 1907, and the oral tradition of running for higher ground when the sea recedes helped to save many lives in 2004. “In many other coastal areas of the country, people rushed into the seabed to pick up fish – and were crushed by the gushing sea water as waves of up to 30 metres wracked havoc and brought devastation,” he said.Better prepared for when disaster strikesTwenty years on, the province of Aceh in far western Indonesia is much more prepared. The smong is now part of the curriculum of every primary and junior high school on Simeulue as well as in some other regencies, Ahmadi, a journalist and local storyteller, said: “For full preparedness, we cannot rely on grandparents only – we must make sure every child is prepared.” The association of storytellers in the province is working with the Simeulue Board of Education to lobby the remaining regencies to do the same, Mr Fahlevi and Mr Ahmadi said. Mr Ahmadi himself was living in the provincial capital of Banda Aceh when the 2004 tsunami struck, and immediately fled to higher ground. He tried to convince many of his neighbours to do the same, but most would not listen, he recalls. “When I returned, I saw corpses all around,” he said. “Today, the loss of life would be far smaller – we are much better prepared.”Over 167,000 people died in Indonesia during the event on 26 December, and a further at least 60,000 in other countries on the Indian Ocean. The United Nations – at the request of the Indonesian government – provided major relief support to the survivors. Ten UN agencies were involved in the work, from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) helping the internally displaced, to the United Nations Childrens’ Fund (UNICEF) providing emergency supplies for children and the UN Development Programme aiding reconstruction efforts (see box below for a full list).The UN’s Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) facilitated the emergency response phase in 2004 and, together with partners, advocated for the importance of building community resilience through disaster education since 2006 based on international best practices. OCHA – along with other UN agencies, the Red Cross Society, universities, the private sector and NGOs – has remained involved long after the tsunami to support Indonesia and the Province of Aceh in improving disaster risk preparedness.The tsunami has ushered in a new era of a more systematized and structured disaster management across the country, based on international best practices. Regulations have been put in place to establish and streamline processes in providing health care and food in case of disasters and also to establish local agencies to coordinate humanitarian efforts on the ground. The National Agency for Disaster Management (BNBP) has strengthened engagement with stakeholders across emergency response, recovery and development to implement global policies.“We believe that disaster risk reduction, sustainable development and climate change must be addressed holistically,” said Raditya Jati, Deputy Minister at the National Agency for Disaster Management (BNBP). “Sustainable resilience ensures that we protect our development gains by investing in resilience building.” The country has mainstreamed the post-2015 frameworks on Sustainable Development (SDGs), the UNFCCC Paris Agreement and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, an international agreement adopted by UN member states at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in 2015.“There have been major strides by the national and provincial governments, supported by multi-stakeholder partners, including community and faith-based organisations, on increased preparedness,” said Thandie Mwape, Head of OCHA Indonesia. The focal areas include education, and regular tsunami preparedness drills have been mandatory in all the schools in the province since 2010, she said. The implementation of a disaster-safe school programme was followed nationwide in 2012 leading to further increased preparedness. A siren system has been installed in some provinces and the population educated on what to do in case the alarms go off.By now, thanks to the progress on disaster management in the country, the Humanitarian Country Team, which is made up of the UN, development partners and local NGOs, is focusing its support to the government on strengthening disaster preparedness capacity and enhancing anticipatory action, as well as the haring of best practices from Indonesia to countries in the region and worldwide.“Indonesia is a knowledge hub and there is much that the world can learn from here – learnings that will lead to saving lives,” Ms Mwape said.Explore the unique art of Smong from Simeulue – click here to listen!BOX:Support provided by UN agencies in emergency response in Indonesia following the 2004 tsunamiThe 2004 tsunami emergency response in Indonesia was the largest international response to a natural disaster. It involved the largest number of donors – both public and private – and the largest number of implementing agencies. UN agencies worked in collaboration with their partners. Their work included: This article was first published at UN News site through this link: Twenty years on: Indonesia ‘better prepared’ following tsunami (https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/10/1155616), 11 October 2024.

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Children playing outside of their houses in Simeulue

Story

07 August 2024

Writing Without Borders

Playing with words in the borderless land of imagination gives children a place where no rules apply and no limitations exist. But for some children, living amidst hard circumstances like Ali, a 13-year-old Afghan refugee living in Jakarta, this special space can sometimes seem too distant to reach. His family waited for 10 years for a country to accept him as refugees. They had to move from one place to another, and the complexities of his daily life left only a narrow window for him to be alone and wander, let alone write.But listen to Ali’s short story – read out during a workshop on inclusive literacy supported by UN in Indonesia as part of the Patjarmerah Kecil Festival last Saturday – when he was asked to describe his daily life in the clouds. "I wake up and eat the cloud for breakfast. When I’m thirsty, I just open my mouth to drink the rain. Then I play football. When I’m tired, I just sleep on the cloud," he read his story shyly, his eyes smiling.With a simple question, Ali’s imagination took a leap. And so did the imagination of the other 30 children, 10 of them refugees, who took part in the session conducted by Reda Gaudiamo, a champion for digital literacy in Indonesia.David, a 10-year-old from Jakarta, when asked to complete a sentence starting with “what if,” wrote, “What if I became King of the Gods? I could make rain and stop time.”Nadia said, “What if I became a cat? I could run, climb, and steal food.” But there was also a simple wish from Athia, a child refugee from Sri Lanka: “What if I became the last child in my family? I wouldn’t need to take care of my siblings or help Mom in the kitchen,” she said.As the afternoon wore on, the children became less patient and wanted to read their stories as loudly as possible. Sometimes the stories were too complicated end, hung in the air, waiting for the next moment to conclude.In the workshop, children felt free to express whatever crossed their minds. It seemed the spirit of boundlessness became their own. For a moment, they forgot to take a look at their tablets or mobile phones and existed in their true form: a child.The Patjarmerah Kecil Festival is an annual celebration of children's literature and creative learning in Indonesia. The festival showcases a diverse selection of children’s books and promotes literacy and the creative economy.The festival and book market travel across Indonesia with the mission of creating fair and equal access to literacy,This goes beyond just reading materials and also providing the same learning spaces and opportunities for everyone.The United Nations in Indonesia participated in this year's "Patjarmerah Kecil" Children's Literary Festival, leveraging its global platform to enhance the annual celebration of children's literature and creative learning in Indonesia.The International Organization for Migration (IOM) participated in the workshop entitled "Tell your story today” on July 6, the workshop included 10 refugee children and 20 local child authors.Indonesia continues to see a gradual decline in illiteracy rates. According to data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in 2023, the illiteracy rate among the population aged 10 years and above stood at 3.18%.Globally, one in five children, adolescents and youth are excluded from education, with disparities exacerbated by poverty, gender, language, disability, ethnicity and migration status, among others. Transforming education has been identified by the United Nations as one of only six key drivers to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).------------------------------------------This article was originally published on the IOM Indonesia website that can be accessed through this link: https://indonesia.iom.int/stories/writing-without-borders

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Story

02 July 2024

From salty fish to coconut oil: islanders in Papua mean business

BIANCI and SAUKABU, SOUTHWEST PAPUA – Between the light blue sky and the azure blue sea, the islands of Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua are famous for their beauty and as one of the world’s most biodiverse areas. Thanks to a collaboration between the Ministry of Village, Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration, the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) and local authorities, the inhabitants of these remote islands have enjoyed a substantive and measurable increase in their living standards. Most of the adult population of Bianci village, a four-hour boat ride from the provincial capital of Sorong, participates in the production of salty fish and fish floss. These products earn the villagers twice as much as when they used to sell raw fish. Halal-certified, quality-controlled and vacuum sealed, the products are sold at nearby diving resorts, in supermarkets across the province as well as on Sorong’s central market. “The development of the village is our own responsibility – and this project is the catalyst that allows us to take matters into our own hands and grow,” said Village Head Sayuti Daad. “Earlier, there was no significant economic activity here.”Bianci is one of 1,110 Indonesian villages supported through the Integrated Village Economic Transformation Programme (TEKAD), under the leadership of the Ministry. The villages TEKAD works in have a combined population of over 1.6 million.In Raja Ampat, 19 communities benefit from TEKAD experts, who help villagers design business plans with long-term development strategies to be supported by the Village Fund. The Fund, managed by the Ministry of Villages, allocates Rupiah 68 billion Indonesian (US $4.3 billion) nationally to develop rural communities. While men in Bianci continue their traditional practice of fishing in the surrounding rich seas, women now use equipment and tools provided by the Village Fund to prepare salty fish and spicy fish floss, both of which are staple foods for Indonesians in cities. A kilogram of fish prepared this way fetches around Rp 35,000 (US$ 2.2), almost double the sales price of raw fish, which is just Rp 20,000. Furthermore, for many of the women, it is the first time they have a job, Mr Daad added: “It provides a different status, to be paid for their cooking.”TEKAD’s mission is to support economic transformation in interested villages in the poorest regions of Indonesia, including Southwest Papua. By hiring and training local facilitators to work with the villagers, the programme ensures community buy-in for long-term planning.“Durable development solutions necessitate money to be spent on projects with long-term economic benefits, rather than spending on various short-term initiatives each year,” said Yumi Sakata, Programme Officer at IFAD’s Jakarta office. “With the support of TEKAD facilitators, the beneficiaries – mostly rural women – are learning sustainable business models.”According to TEKAD data, the investment in Bianci was Rp 130 million in kind and Rp 100 million in cash, which the villagers used to buy raw materials and construct a facility for drying the fish.Towards a coconut-based economyA further hour away by speed boat, the 200 residents of Saukabu have developed plans – with TEKAD support – for an even more significant increase in their income. While their knowledge of English is limited, they are very familiar with the acronym VCO (or rather “vee-cee-oh”), which stands for virgin coconut oil, used in facial treatments, massage and high-end cooking. Located near the group of picturesque isles that decorate Indonesia’s Rp 100,000 note, the island’s primary produce is coconuts – with around 40 tons per year. Villagers have traditionally sold coconuts raw or smoked and have earned Rp 100,000 for a large bag of 50 coconuts. They are now piloting the production of virgin coconut oil, which – depending on its final quality – can earn between Rp 1 and 2 million per 50 coconuts. Most of the value-added work is done by women. TEKAD has been a major lifeline to the area, said Wahab Sangaji, Special Economic Advisor at Raja Ampat Regency. “If we had one wish, it would be to extend TEKAD support and know-how to all 117 villages of the regency,” he said.Changes are palpable beyond improved coconut and fish products.Having worked with the islanders since the launch of TEKAD in 2021, facilitator Trully Novalia says the longer-term benefits outweigh concrete profits: “TEKAD is bringing about a mindset change – for people to have goals and plans and to think about economic opportunities,” she said. “This will enable them to develop and implement business ideas long after this project ends.”Afi Gamso, a mother of three in Bianci, though, is content with more immediate benefits for now. “From the newfound money, I could buy new clothes and school supplies for my children,” she said. “It’s important they look decent at the high school in town.”

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Story

20 June 2024

United Nations supports IGCN’s Moving Forward Faster initiative to accelerate the 2030 Agenda

The United Nations in Indonesia remains committed to supporting member companies and organizations of the Indonesia Global Compact Network (IGCN) and their contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia said last week.IGCN has 160 member companies and organizations, with a total annual revenue of US$ 145 billion, accounting for over 10% of Indonesia’s GDP. Its members pledge to be agents of change, driving Indonesia towards the achievement of human rights, competitive labour, a sustainable environment and ethical business practices.The SDGs can only be achieved in partnership between different actors, and that includes the private sector, which accounts for 9 out of 10 jobs in Indonesia, said Gita Sabharwal, the UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia. She addressed the Annual General Meeting of IGCN in Jakarta last week. Read her full statement here. “Moving forward faster will depend on three areas for acceleration; ambitious leadership from private sectors, unlocking sustainable investments for green transition, and the championing of gender equality and decent work,” Ms Sabharwal said. “And business leaders can take these to the next level as the IGCN embodies the power of partnerships.”Globally, only 17% of SDG targets are on track to be met. In Indonesia, this figure – according to calculations by the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) – is 62%. As the world approaches the 2030 target to reach the SDGs, the urgency to accelerate progress intensifies, both globally and in Indonesia. The next few years are critical in tackling global challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality, as well as creating a path to sustainable economic growth.This is why IGCN launched its UN Global Compact Moving Forward Faster initiative at the event. The initiative seeks to accelerate Indonesia’s transformation towards achieving the SDGs by adopting environmentally friendly practices that reduce carbon footprints while promoting ethical and inclusive business.“This initiative confirms our commitment to driving sustainable growth and strengthening collaboration among our members and stakeholders,” said IGCN President Yaya Winarno Junardy.The partnership between the private sector, government, and the UN is particularly important in today’s complex geopolitical context, for it has the potential to be transformational, positioning IGCN as an inspiration for other country-level networks in Southeast Asia, Ms Sabharwal said. “With collaborative efforts and shared commitment, this initiative could serve as a model for accelerating sustainable development and achieving the 2030 Agenda,” she added.

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Yaya Winarno Junardy, Gita Sabharwal, Noke Kiroyan on a stage

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Press Release

01 October 2024

The 100 Village Project: A collaboration between UNOPS and the Indonesian Government to Boost Climate Action in South Sumatra

The Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoEF) and UNOPS launched the national PROKLIM initiative in South Sumatra today, aiming to strengthen climate resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in 100 villages in the province.The event highlighted the partnership between UNOPS and the MoEF to address climate change impacts directly at the village level. It focuses on helping communities adapt to and mitigate climate change by promoting carbon-neutral practices, increasing climate awareness, and boosting resilience. This includes supporting low-carbon agricultural development through technology and capital investments.Palembang, September 19, 2024 – UNOPS and the Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry held a meeting today to kick off the Strengthening Village-based Climate Actions and Livelihoods (PROKLIM) project in Palembang, South Sumatra province, Indonesia. Funded by Temasek Foundation, the project aims to enhance climate resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in 100 villages across the province.This project operates under the broad Climate Village (PROKLIM) Initiative, established by the MoEF in 2012 to strengthen community engagement in local climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.The expansion follows the recent success of a pilot PROKLIM project carried out by UNOPS Indonesia from September to December 2023 in village in Tangerang, Banten Province. This pilot project achieved notable positive results and received an Award and Trophy from the MoEF, highlighting the effectiveness of UNOPS climate resilience initiatives and allowing the targeted community to progress to a higher categorization level within the PROKLIM framework.Learning from the success of this pilot, the PROKLIM project aims to further its achievements by collaborating with various stakeholders. The meeting brought together over 75 participants including representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, local governments, Universities, and NGOs.At the meeting, Dr. Irawan Asaad, Director of Climate Change Adaptation at the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, emphasized, “We hope that this project will lead to a significant improvement in climate change adaptation and mitigation measures, directly benefiting the community and fostering the long-term sustainability of these efforts.” Dr. Sharon Thangadurai, UNOPS Country Manager for Indonesia and Timor-Leste, remarked, “By the end of this project, we expect to see villages that are more resilient to fire, floods, droughts, and other climate-related challenges, households with improved incomes and better access to resources, and a reduction in harmful emissions that contribute to global warming.” Mr. Edward Candra, the Secretary of the South Sumatra Provincial Government shared their views, stating “We're confident that the collaboration will lead to positive outcomes and address the challenge of climate change in the future.” “If these 100 villages can collaborate and strengthen each other’s efforts, it will lead to transformative changes,” remarked Mr. Ferdian Krisnanto, the Head of the Sumatra Region Climate Change Control Center, who presented the list of the 100 villages selected for the PROKLIM initiative.The newly launched PROKLIM project in South Sumatra represents a significant step forward in supporting Indonesia’s efforts to enhance climate resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in alignment with the country’s Long-Term Strategy on Low Carbon and Climate Resilience (LTS-LCCR) 2050.To further engage communities, UNOPS is planning to launch a call for proposals for organizations in Palembang and surrounding areas to implement grassroots climate adaptation and mitigation activities. The UNOPS PROKLIM Project Manager Marco Scarpetta emphasized that the key to success lies in strong collaboration among all stakeholders, further adding that “We will work to empower the targeted communities, ensuring they take ownership of the project and its activities, thereby enabling its long-term impact to extend well beyond the project's duration” Drawing from more than a decade of PROKLIM experience and UNOPS expertise in climate action, the PROKLIM project that is being implemented by UNOPS in South Sumatra aims to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters, strengthen institutions, and improve livelihoods at the community level.

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Press Release

19 September 2024

Indonesia-UN Launched Annual Report Highlighting 2023 Contributions to Indonesia’s Development Agenda

JAKARTA, September 18 – Indonesia, represented by the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), and the United Nations, unveiled the UN in Indonesia’s 2023 Annual Results Report today. The report highlights the work and impact accomplished in the third year of implementing the 2021-2025 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), the umbrella agreement under which 30 UN institutions collaborated to support the government’s development agenda. Year 2023 was important for Indonesia, with its role as ASEAN Chair unlocking new opportunities for regional cooperation, during a period of post-pandemic economic recovery, stronger institutions and a strengthened health architecture."We remain steadfast in our commitment to achieving the SDGs and addressing pressing global issues like climate change, economic disparities, and social inequalities. The next five years will be crucial as Indonesia implements the three pillars of transformation outlined in the National Long‐Term Development Plan: Social Transformation, Economic Transformation, and Governance Transformation," said Suharso Monoarfa, Minister for National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas at Bappenas-UN Forum held in Jakarta, Wednesday (18/9).“The annual report is a testimony to our joint work: it not only encapsulates the dynamic cooperation between the Government of Indonesia and the United Nations but also aligns with Indonesia’s development aspirations, notably the 2020-2024 National Medium-Term Development Plan,” the United Nations Country Team wrote in the report. The report summarizes the results of the UN and Indonesia’s progress towards achieving the SDGs and is organized around the UNSDCF’s four strategic areas.In the first area, Inclusive Human Development, results include improving the social protection system’s efficiency through socioeconomic registration, which affects over 118 million beneficiaries of various government social protection programs. Partnering with the National Food Agency, the UN supported a new food and nutrition initiative that benefitted 25.000 schoolchildren – and the lessons learnt are well placed to provide input into the country’s nutritious meals initiative. The proportion of people living with HIV that are using anti-retroviral drugs increased from 33 percent in December 2022 to 40 percent in December 2023. Second, under the pillar of Economic Transformation, the UN assisted over 900 factories in upgrading to the latest technologies, enhancing their economic competitiveness while lowering their environmental impact. Over 330.000 farmers received support to improve agricultural practices and strengthen agricultural businesses. The palm oil industry has improved waste management and the utilization of products both at plantations and in factories–a result of support from the UN and its partners. In the third area, Green Development, Climate Change, and Natural Disasters, the UN helped reduce over 87 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions and provided 134.000 households with clean energy from mini-hydro power plants and rooftop solar photovoltaic systems. A 420.000-ton reduction in marine waste was achieved as a result of waste reduction and recycling measures.Lastly, under the Innovation to Accelerate Progress Towards the SDGs area, Indonesia, with UN support, raised US$ 2.2 billion in thematic bonds to help accelerate the achievement of SDG targets. The ultimate result of these bonds was positive impact on the lives of 6.4 million Indonesians. Over 800 million vaccination doses reached their intended destination with the use of the UN-developed SMILE application.“As we embrace a new chapter in Indonesia’s governance and prepare for the new National Medium-Term Development Plan, it is pivotal that we seize this momentum to create a stronger, more inclusive partnership with the UN, we must also consider how our collaboration with the UN can be strengthened further,” Minister Suharso concluded. Through this forum, it is hoped that we can reaffirm the collective responsibility between government institutions, UN agencies, development partners, and the private sector to advance Indonesia’s development agenda.The Annual Report was officially presented by the UN’s Resident Coordinator in Indonesia Gita Sabharwal to Minister Suharso at the annual Bappenas-UN forum, a premier platform for strategic dialogue between the Indonesian Government and UN agencies. “The UN is as good as the partnerships that it fosters in a country,” Gita said.“It is these partnerships that allow a comprehensive UN approach to accelerate the progress towards the SDGs while ensuring that no one is left behind. We will continue to work very closely with Bappenas and the entire Indonesian government not only toward the SDG targets but also exploring innovative solutions to assist the government in inclusive growth, green and low-carbon development, and digital transformation.” ----------------Media contact:Ardian Budhi NugrohoHead of Bureau for Public Relations, Archives, Executive Affairs
Ministry of National Development Planning/BappenasSiska WidyawatiNational Information Officer United Nations Information Centre (UNIC)
siska.widyawati@un.org, 08788-4885489 Read United Nations Resident Coordinator in Indonesia, Gita Sabharwal's presentation here:

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Press Release

19 August 2024

World Humanitarian Day 2024: In Solidarity with Humanitarians at the Frontline in Gaza and beyond

Jakarta, 18 August 2024 – As the world prepares to observe World Humanitarian Day on 19 August, the United Nations in Indonesia, in solidarity with the global humanitarian community, calls for urgent action to protect aid workers and civilians trapped in conflict zones.The theme of this year’s World Humanitarian Day, #ActForHumanity or #BeraksiUntukKemanusiaan, emphasizes the critical need to uphold international humanitarian laws and safeguard those who risk their lives to deliver aid.In 2023, Aid Worker Security Database reports that the global humanitarian community witnessed the deadliest year on record, with an unprecedented 280 aid workers killed in violence.This represents a staggering 137 % increase from 2022, where 118 aid workers lost their lives. The trend has continued into 2024, with 280 aid workers already killed as of August 17, underscoring the escalating dangers faced by those on the frontlines of crisis zones."The normalization of violence against aid workers is both unacceptable and unconscionable. It threatens the very foundation of humanitarian work and undermines our ability to reach those in desperate need," said Thandie Mwape, Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Indonesia and ASEAN Liaison Office. "On this World Humanitarian Day, we honour the memory of those who have paid the ultimate price in service to humanity and call on the global community to continue to advocate to end the impunity that allows these atrocities to continue."The ongoing conflict in Gaza has emerged as the deadliest place for aid workers, with over 250 humanitarian workers killed since October 2023. Additionally, extreme violence in Sudan and South Sudan continues to contribute to the grim toll, both in 2023 and into 2024."Every attack on an aid worker is an attack on humanity itself. It is imperative that all parties to conflicts respect international humanitarian law and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions," added Ms Mwape. "On a day like today, we must also commend the safe humanitarian space in Indonesia, which allows for humanitarian actors to do their work and also extend their kindness to others beyond Indonesia and also add a voice to demand accountability and stand united in protecting those who protect others."This year’s World Humanitarian Day is marked by a global digital campaign under the hashtag #ActForHumanity. The campaign, promoted through social media channels of the UN in Indonesia, rallies public support and urge those in power to uphold the norms that safeguard humanity.On August 19, a short film holding world leaders and conflict parties accountable will be launched, alongside social media activations highlighting the dire consequences of violating international humanitarian laws.Humanitarian night in JakartaIn Jakarta, the UN, in collaboration with humanitarian organizations, hosted the "Humanitarian Night" at Taman Literasi Martha Christina Tiahahu, Blok M, on 18 August 2024.This event brought together approximately 1,500 participants, including aid workers, government representatives, and the public. “Humanitarian Night aims to raise the awareness of youth on the accountability of those in power for violations of the international humanitarian laws and other international norms. The failure of humanity, responsibility, and leadership cannot be allowed to continue. Indonesia stands in solidarity to #ActForHumanity", said Tirza Listiarani, Program Director of 2030 Youth Force.The event featured cultural performances, a humanitarian talk show, music, and exhibitions showcasing the work of various humanitarian organizations. This evening of solidarity spotlight the devastating impact of armed conflict on both aid workers and civilians, while also celebrating the resilience and dedication of those who continue to serve despite the risks."We hope that this activity at the Literacy Park will bring awareness to the wider community and public the urge to protect every human being around the world,” said Ferdiansyah Roestam, CEO of Integrasi Transit Jakarta, the management of the Park.As World Humanitarian Day 2024 approaches, there is a collective call to not only honour the memory of those who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty but also to reinforce the commitment to safeguarding those who continue their vital work in some of the most perilous regions.This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for humanity, pursuing justice, and upholding the essential principles that guide humanitarian efforts worldwide.

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Press Release

10 August 2024

International Youth Day 2024: Digital Pathways to a Sustainable Future

Jakarta, 10 August 2024 - The United Nations and United Nations Association Indonesia today celebrated International Youth Day under the theme 'Empowering Youth in Indonesia: Digital Pathways to a Sustainable Future.' This theme underscores the ongoing collaborations between the Indonesian government and the United Nations to harness digital technologies for sustainable development with a special focus on young people, especially those in remote areas.“Today is an important moment for us all, especially for the youth," said Usman Kasong, Director General of Information and Communications at the Ministry of Communication and Information, in his opening remarks. "The event we are attending together highlights a theme that is very relevant to our times: 'Empowering Youth in Indonesia: Digital Pathways to a Sustainable Future.' This theme affirms that our future, the future of the nation, lies in the hands of the youth, who are capable of using digital technology as a tool for transformation towards sustainability.”Indonesia is making steady progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with 62% of its indicators currently on track, according to government data. While this progress is encouraging, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all targets are met by the 2030 deadline.Amidst this context, Indonesia's large and relatively young population presents a valuable opportunity for development. With over 48% of the population under 30 years old, these young individuals hold potential to significantly influence the nation’s future.Gita Sabhwarwal, UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia, said: “Digital technologies are vital tools that help bridge gaps, create opportunities, and spur innovation across all sectors of society. Through our partnership with the Indonesian government, we are committed to ensuring these benefits reach all corners of the nation, especially impacting young lives in underserved communities.”Engaging youth in remote areas in digitalization efforts is particularly important, as their inclusion ensures that the benefits of technology reach all segments of society, contributing to more balanced and inclusive development.Speakers at a series of educational workshops and a conference explored how digital strategies are integrated within government-UN initiatives to address critical issues like food security, education, employment and healthcare. Speakers at the workshops included experts from the Ministry of National Development (Bappenas), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).The conference was opened by Usman Kasong Director General Public Information and Communication the Ministry of Communication and Information, Dr Felipe Paulier the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs and Ms Sabharwal. Hosted at the UN Indonesia and streamed online, the conference attracted around 850 online participants and 50 in-person attendees. Quentino Adzandara Junandar, Under Secretary-General of Department of Program Development United Nations Association Indonesia, spoke of the transformative effect of digital tools: “Providing the right digital tools to young people allows them to contribute actively to building an inclusive future. This initiative is crucial for making young individuals aware of how digital technology can drive sustainable development and for engaging them directly in these efforts.”The discussions showcased the Digital Transformation Multi-Stakeholder Partnership, supported by a coalition of twelve UN entities. The initiative focuses on bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive digital education, with the goal of tackling challenges like poverty, climate change, and inequality.Concluding the event, Ms Sabhwarwal emphasized the importance of youth participation. “The enthusiasm and innovative ideas of our youth are key as we push forward with digital solutions for future challenges. Their active involvement is essential as we continue to seize the vast opportunities that digital transformation presents for achieving a sustainable future.”The involvement and empowering of youth is at the heart of the reforms proposed by the UN Secretary General, and which will discussed by global leaders at the Summit of the Future in New York in September. . The Summit will propose ways to systematically incorporate perspectives from youth into national and global governance, as well as ways to increase the inclusive use of digital technologies for development.Media contact: Siska Widyawati, UN Information Centre (UNIC) - 08788-4885489

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Press Release

31 July 2024

United States and Indonesia Highlight Shared Commitment to Strengthen Border Law Enforcement Cooperation

On July 30, the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlighted ongoing cooperation to strengthen Border Law Enforcement cooperation, to include efforts to combat the trafficking of narcotics and other illicit goods. Under the project called Strengthening Integrated Border Management to Counter Illicit Trafficking Flows in Indonesia with its objective to strengthen identification/interception capacities and cooperation mechanisms at the operational level between National Border Posts in Indonesia to disrupt illicit trafficking flows, by providing technical assistance at both the policy and operational levels.The event acknowledged the latest in a series of programs funded by the U.S. Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), including a two-year $1 million program through UNODC, in partnership with the Republic of Indonesia’s National Narcotics Board (BNN), the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DGCE), and the National Border Management Agency (BNPP). At the event, INL donated five TruNarc handled drug analyzers to further support BNN and DGCE operations at the border posts. BNN Deputy of Legal Affairs and Cooperation, Police Inspector General Drs. Agus Irianto presented awards to INL and UNODC for their cooperation for the prevention and eradication of narcotics in Indonesia. INL Indonesia collaborated with UNODC, a 24-month project to enhance inter-agency collaboration within Indonesian institutions and strengthen frontline capacity to combat illicit activities. Through the program, UNODC facilitated engagement between BNN, DGCE, and BNPP to enhance their respective capacity to prevent cross-border crimes.Transnational crime in Southeast Asia is on the rise, and with it the need for cooperation between international partners. While maritime routes continue to be the primary method for smuggling illicit goods, cross-border smuggling continues to be an issue in Indonesia and around the world. Spanning 3,000 kilometers, managing land border crossings in Indonesia poses geographical and logistical challenges that cause authorities to continually work to prevent smuggling.The TruNarc handheld narcotics analyzers are a narcotics detection tool that enables frontline authorities to identify more than 530 suspected controlled substances, to include scanning through plastic or glass to minimize contamination, reduce exposure, and preserve evidence.For further information:
1. Nabiel Hayaza - UNODC Programme Specialist (+6281119205890)
2. Moja Siti Nurkalam - INL Programme Specialist (+6285280711040)

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