Dear Readers,

Indonesia has made a commitment to pursue an energy transition toward achieving net-zero emissions. While the transition aims to bring prosperity, it may also create new challenges—particularly for vulnerable communities. In the Forum Kajian Pembangunan webinar held this July, we highlighted the importance of policies that ensure the transition is truly inclusive and benefits everyone. Research presented during the discussion revealed that, without comprehensive protections, the energy transition could potentially exacerbate poverty.

This edition also shines a spotlight on child protection, education, and risk communication. SMERU is conducting a baseline study for the First Click initiative to strengthen digital child protection. We also feature a recommended article from Kompas that underscores the role of education in reducing poverty, along with SMERU’s findings on the long-term income impacts of growing up in poverty. You’ll also find a policy brief reflecting on the challenges of risk communication during the pandemic and key lessons to help shape more effective crisis response strategies.

We invite you to join our upcoming training on writing impactful policy briefs, hosted by the SMERU Learning Centre on 20–21 August 2025. Scan the QR code in this newsletter to secure your spot.

Let’s continue the conversation. We welcome your thoughts and feedback at comms[at]smeru.or.id.

Widjajanti Isdijoso
Director, The SMERU Research Institute