Yogyakarta, May 19, 2026—The Social Movement Institute (SMI), together with POLGOV Fisipol UGM, held a conference as a space to unite forces, gather initiatives, and build a bold, creative, militant, and imaginative youth politics.
Amidst political deadlock, the dominance of power, military strengthening, and the arrest of over 6,000 young people, this event focused specifically on igniting youth political awareness to bring about change.
Prof. Amalinda Savirani, one of the speakers, emphasized the importance of realizing change through our communities. “Return to the community, organize yourself, and continuously connect one point with another. In this way, hopefully, the desired change can occur,” she said.
Furthermore, Tiyo Ardianto emphasized that shared awareness is a prerequisite for achieving meaningful change. “Every youth resistance cannot be won without awareness. It cannot be won without unity,” he emphasized. His call for unity among youth emphasized the importance of collaboration amidst adversity.
Other speakers, such as Dimas Bagus Arya, described the militarism and pressures faced by civil society movements. He emphasized the need for courage to overcome fear. Robertus Robet also explained the concepts of the subject and militant emancipation, encouraging young people to understand their role in the political landscape.
The conference also served as a platform for networking among young activists, building civil society partnerships that are crucial for capacity building. Participants engaged in discussions on strategies to mobilize their communities and advocate for basic education and the rights of marginalized groups.
These sessions were designed to empower young people with the tools necessary to bring about change in their communities, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which emphasize education, equality, and partnerships.
The atmosphere at the event was filled with enthusiasm and determination, as young people from diverse backgrounds gathered to share their visions for a better future. This conference not only highlighted the challenges faced by young people but also celebrated their potential to drive change through collective action.
In conclusion, the conference, organized by POLGOV Fisipol UGM and SMI, was a pivotal moment for youth political engagement in Indonesia. By facilitating awareness, building capacity, and encouraging civil society partnerships, this event aimed to empower young people to take an active role in shaping their political landscape and fighting for their rights.