Indonesia Urges Solidarity, Multilateralism to Protect Forests on UNFF21

RRI.CO.ID, New York - The 21st Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF21) has placed global forest preservation back in the spotlight at UN Headquarters in New York. The forum gathered governments, experts, and stakeholders to discuss the future of sustainable forest management amid mounting climate challenges.

Indonesia used the occasion to call on UN member states to strengthen collaboration in addressing the threats posed by the climate crisis and environmental degradation.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni stressed that forest protection cannot be addressed in isolation, especially given today’s complex geopolitical dynamics. “We need stronger solidarity and tangible collective action to ensure the sustainability of forests for future generations,” he said in his remarks on Thursday, May 14, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He cautioned that the current global geopolitical situation must not divert attention from the real threat of climate change.

According to him, foresters and forestry stakeholders must remain focused on protecting forests as the lungs of the world. “Protecting the world’s forests amid today’s complex geopolitical landscape requires a renewed spirit of multilateralism,” he added.

Minister Raja Juli also urged the international community to view forests as a shared asset that transcends administrative boundaries and political interests. He stressed that stronger international cooperation and multi-stakeholder partnerships are the only way to mobilize broader support for sustainable forest management worldwide.

“This closing message is an important reminder for all UN member states that, despite differences, the commitment to preserving nature and protecting biodiversity must remain a shared priority for a greener and more inclusive future,” he said. ***