Posted in: Top Stories

BRIN and the bureaucratisation of knowledge in Indonesia

The co-opting of knowledge production by the state has a long history in Indonesia. The establishment of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is just the latest example.

First ‘separatists’, now ‘terrorists’: another way for Indonesia to avoid solving West Papuans' historical grievances

Human Rights, Security, Top Stories

The government's recent decision to label West Papuan resistance groups as ‘terrorists’ will have serious implications for the future of conflict resolution in the region.

The female face of terrorism in Indonesia

Gender, Security, Top Stories

Recent terror attacks in Indonesia have involved women, but examinations of and responses to violent extremism too often neglect gender analysis.

Mandatory vaccination will not solve Indonesia’s Covid-19 problem

Human Rights, Public health, Top Stories

Rather than penalising individuals who refuse vaccination, the Indonesian government would be better off actively engaging with the public and examining why scepticism around the Covid-19 vaccine remains prevalent.

Indonesia is betting on CoronaVac in its fight against Covid-19. But will it work?

Public health, Top Stories

Indonesia has moved quickly to set up a national program to vaccinate against Covid-19. But it faces major challenges in vaccinating the population in a timely and effective manner.

A personal religious choice: regions banned from forcing students to wear headscarves

Education, Gender, Religion, Top Stories

A new joint ministerial decision banning forced religious clothing in schools has been welcomed by activists. But in an increasingly conservative society, will headscarves continue to be viewed as compulsory?