Indonesia Youth Summit to Strengthen Global Benchmarking for Youth Development

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is positioning its young generation on the global stage through the Indonesia Youth Summit (IYS) 2026, which will bring together participants from nine partner countries to exchange best practices in youth leadership and development.

The summit, scheduled for October 29–30, 2026, will be held at Ismail Marzuki Cultural Park in Cikini, Central Jakarta, and other facilities owned by the Jakarta Provincial Administration, with an expected attendance of around 5,000 participants.

Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir emphasized that the program is designed not only as a leadership development platform but also as a benchmarking initiative.

“We are working with countries such as the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and others,” Minister Erick said after signing a memorandum of understanding with the Jakarta Provincial Administration on Monday, July 13, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He added that the ministry has also reached out to the United Nations to ensure Indonesia’s youth programs are aligned with global standards.

The IYS will gather students, activists, young entrepreneurs, and professionals to collaborate on solutions to pressing issues in social development, education, economy, environment, and national progress.

Minister Erick stressed that preparing youth leadership is critical as Indonesia approaches the 100th anniversary of the Youth Pledge in 2028, warning that without proper preparation, Indonesia risks falling behind other nations.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo described the collaboration between the central government and provincial administration as a strategic step to strengthen synergy in youth development.

The Jakarta administration will provide cross-sector support, including transportation, health services, publicity, and participant mobility, to ensure smooth execution of both the Wirasena Youth Camp (October 21–31, 2026) and the Indonesia Youth Summit (October 29–30, 2026).

Both events are expected to serve as long-term investments in youth empowerment, fostering leadership, creativity, and collaboration among Indonesia’s next generation.

Minister Erick concluded that the initiative is not only about domestic development but also about positioning Indonesia’s youth within a global network of innovation and leadership. ***