ProRep Newsletter Volume 1/ 2016 by Representasi Efektif

In this edition: Message from the Director

Policy Communities: Building Alliances for Policy Reform

Environment Policy Community

Recovering Rights of the Traditional Nature Defenders

Education Policy Community

Working Hand-in-hand to Strengthen 14 the Education Ecosystem Health Policy Community

Community Involvement Becomes a Driving Force for Improving Public Health

ProRep and Partners’ Policy 21 Journey: January – December 2015 Supporting Indonesia’s Commit24 ment to Foster Open Government Representation Toolkit: Policy Engagement Resources at Your Fingertips

Strengthening Indonesia’s Role in Global and Regional Cooperation

Shaping the Debate: Policy Briefs and Op-Eds

What’s Coming in 2016

This newsletter is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this newsletter are the sole responsibility of Chemonics International and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

Vol. 1 2016

Newsletter

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Policy Communities: Building Alliances for Policy Reform Policy advocacy is a journey of a thousand miles – it is too long to be taken alone. Working on the frontlines to influence public policy and bring about positive, lasting change requires advocates to design and execute a well-planned strategy. While bringing about the intended change can take a great deal of time, years even, knowing precisely how and when to act can dramatically increase the likelihood of success. Seasoned advocates ground their policy options in solid evidence and strengthen the campaign by bringing more voices into the policy debate. After all, rigorous research can reveal the most desirable policy solution, and greater public participation results in policies that address public needs rather than the narrow interests of a particular group. Equally important is the need to work collaboratively with others involved in the process and to develop strategic alliances.

Being part of an alliance or coalition with a clear and shared policy agenda is a

Message from the Director

powerful tactic for advocates to reach their policy goals. Program Representasi

Selamat Tahun Baru! The ProRep team hopes that your new year is off to a strong start, and we wish you much success throughout the year ahead. In this newsletter, we are excited to share some highlights from our program in 2015. This is also a bittersweet time for our project team, as we are entering into the final months of our project’s implementation. We would like to thank all of our partners and collaborators for accompanying us on this journey. In 2014, USAID/ ProRep underwent a fundamental shift in its approach from institutional support for key reformers to the creation of issue-specific policy communities and in 2015, policy alliances began to flourish. The program also took on new partners and new issues with the expansion of the environment policy program.

(ProRep), a five-year democratic rights and governance program from USAID which concludes in April 2016, began to facilitate the development of ‘policy communities’ in mid-2014. The goal was to bring together advocacy organizations, think tanks, policymakers, and others to collaborate on policy reforms in three areas key to Indonesia’s progress – health, education, and the environment. Through these fora, ProRep supports its partners in bringing together their strengths and resources in complementary ways. As a result, CSOs are able to strengthen their advocacy positions by drawing upon research

Along with these changes, we saw significant breakthroughs on longstanding policy initiatives in education, environment, and health. Our partners – including leading policy researchers and civil society advocates – deepened collaboration with sub-national government officials as well as the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education and Culture. Good practices at the local level were elevated to the national debate and policy plans.

findings from think tanks, while researchers are able to exert greater influence by

As we enter the final phase of the program, we are capturing and documenting lessons-learned from our five years of support for improved representation and progressive policy reform, so that others may learn from our experience. We are hopeful that collective efforts for needed policy change will continue to take root and deliver tangible benefits for Indonesia’s citizens and environment well into the future.

Although few would disagree that aggregating organizations into one amplified

aligning themselves with skilled advocates. Together, they are able to push for desired policy actions in coordination with executive and legislative policymakers at the local and national levels.

voice scales up the ability to influence and can be a “game changer” for policy reform, ProRep and partners have learned that working with others can prove challenging at times. This is especially true when unique or differing viewpoints on an issue emerge or where advocacy agendas and processes fall out of sync. In order to reap the benefits of working in a coalition, a linking factor or ‘glue’ is needed; a role that ProRep fulfills in connecting various parties and in facilitating their deliberations and activities. Consequently, communication and coordination among the diverse set of actors involved has markedly improved. With additional

Noelle T. Veltzé

capacity-building support, ProRep partners in each community are making better

Chief of Party

use of new and traditional forms of media, developing sharper policy briefs, and

USAID Program Representasi (ProRep)

writing opinion articles to expand the reach of their advocacy efforts.

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

ProRep policy communities are already generating real

among other key environmental protections. ProRep also

benefits for Indonesia’s citizens and the environment

helped advocacy and research groups to deliver timely

through the adoption of new policies and improved

research and key recommendations before the DPR’s

implementation of existing policies and programs. ProRep

Commission IV on forestry and plantations, as policymakers

facilitated a coalition within the environment policy

sought solutions to the devastating fire and haze crisis of

community to work with the newly established Ministry of

2015 and looked to prioritize future fire prevention efforts.

Policy Communities ATAP

Association of Expert Staff of Parliament

HEALTH

Environment and Forestry, as it took on transitional issues associated with the merger of two formerly independent

Each of the policy communities have solidified partnerships,

ministries. Many of the coalition’s policy recommendations

both among the civil society groups working to influence

were ultimately reflected in the new ministry structure.

the policy process, as well as with key government and

The health policy community conducted research on

legislative actors; and have taken important strides towards

maternal health services under the national health insurance

policy change. While some partners focus on improving

program and presented its findings and recommendations

the way that existing policies and programs are carried

to the health minister in an open forum of 167 activists

out, others are proposing new policies or amendments

and policymakers. They are also using mobile technology

to close loopholes, increase effectiveness, or harmonize

to increase citizen input and impact on health facilities

regulations with others in the policy framework. Some

and policies. With ProRep support, the education policy

of these proposals have already made their way into

community, now formally named the Civil Society Coalition

formalized regulations, procedures, and budgets, while

for Education Transformation (Koalisi Masyarakat Sipil untuk

others still have a long road ahead. With a solid foundation

Transformasi Pendidikan - KMSTP), conducted two national

built by the policy communities’ work, more policy victories

seminars with the Ministry of Education and Culture, and

are on the horizon, and with these, improved conditions for

have established a solid working relationship with several of

Indonesians and their environment.

Promoting researchbased, pro-poor, and environmentally-friendly policies

Improved transparency and public participation in the public policy process

POLICY COMMUNITIES

the Ministry’s divisions. Having begun their activities in September 2014, positive

Linking policy makers with policy advocates

ENVIRONMENT

EDUCATION

results quickly began to emerge from the environment, health, and education policy communities. In 2015 ProRep

Public policy reform

expanded the policy community program and initiated 26 formal partnerships, up from 11 in the previous phase. In September 2015, ProRep expanded its environment policy community program to include support for biodiversity conservation policies. A key milestone was achieved in November 2015 with the House of Representative’s (DPR) prioritization of the long-awaited amendment to the Conservation Law, which is expected to serve as a stronger deterrent against wildlife trafficking,

Stimulating policy alliances

Cross learning and filling in the capacity gaps

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Environment Policy Community Several significant achievements by ProRep partners have opened up space for a more systematic policy reform process in the environment and forestry sectors. Policy community partners made headway on long-standing issues, including helping to conserve forests through management by indigenous people and local communities, developing models to incentivize conservation at the local level, and strengthening laws and regulations to protect Indonesia’s diverse wildlife. At the same time, partners responded swiftly to emerging opportunities, by providing input on the new ministry structure when the Ministry of Forestry and Ministry of Environment were merged, providing input on the national Mid-Term National Development Plan (RPJMN), and delivering research results and policy recommendations to the House of Representatives as efforts were underway to get devastating wildfires under control.

Community forest management and promoting stewardship

Environmental management and protections

Indigenous groups have worked for decades to gain legal

The Indonesian Center for Environmental Law (ICEL) established

recognition of their lands, including forest areas. This is not only a

a firm partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

human rights issue, but also one pertinent to the environment, as

With ProRep support, ICEL has submitted policy recommendations

indigenous control and management of forest areas is commonly

to improve the implementation of the Law on Environmental

viewed as an important way to conserve these at-risk landscapes.

Protection and Management, and developed proposals for

2015 has marked a year of progress for the government of

integrated environmental licensing to eliminate layers of red-

Indonesia in terms of providing legal recognition for a number of

tape that underscore many of Indonesia’s problems with land

indigenous communities around the country and in taking steps

management. In late 2014, ICEL led a coalition of civil society

towards full implementation of the 2013 Constitutional Court

organizations to provide input on how to best structure the merger

ruling that affirmed indigenous peoples’ rights to manage forests

of the forestry and environment ministries. The input was submitted

where they lived. ProRep partners involved in the environment

directly to Minister of Environment and Forestry Siti Nurbaya

policy community provided recommendations to the government

and other high-ranking ministry officials, and a number of the

in setting the target of hectares to be gazetted (legally designated)

recommendations were reflected in the new structure.

to indigenous communities. The government aims to allocate 12.7 million hectares to local communities over a five-year period. While achievement of this target is still a long way off, an important milestone is just around the corner with the planned allocation of the first 12 indigenous forest areas set to take place in early 2016. Of these 12 areas, two received direct support from ProRep partners. In 2014, ProRep partner Epistema Institute supported a key step in this process by developing guidance for local legislative members on how to draw up local regulations for the recognition of indigenous communities. Moving forward, they have also been working with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoEF) to develop national-level guidelines. At the local level, Epistema Institute and Sulawesi Institute succeeded in encouraging the

ProRep continues to work with four partners from the previous phase - Indonesian Center for Environmental law (ICEL), Epistema Institute, Article 33, and Foundation for Coastal and Inland Community Development (Lembaga Pengembangan Masyarakat dan Pedalaman or LePMIL) - building on their experience and achievements in 2014. In 2015, the program tapped into new expertise and strengths from eight different organizations: Indonesia Budget Center (IBC), Indonesian Institute for Forest and Environment (Rimbawan Muda Indonesia or RMI), AKAR Foundation, Sulawesi Institute, Community Forestry Communication Forum (Forum Komunikasi Kehutanan Masyarakat or FKKM), Community and Ecological Based Society for Law Reform HuMa, Partnership for Governance Reform (Kemitraan) and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). All twelve organizations are working hand-in-hand for complementary policy changes at the local and national level.

government to enact local regulations (perda), giving legal recognition to the Kasepuhan tribe in Lebak, Banten and the Tobu Hukaea Laea tribe in Bombana, Southeast Sulawesi. While helping to legalize land claims for indigenous communities is a major issue, it is also crucial to assist communities to be good stewards of the forest. For this, ProRep partner Article 33 developed a model for a public financial benefit-sharing mechanism in the province of Jambi to encourage indigenous and local people to contribute to forest protection. Article 33 is studying this model and others to make its final recommendations to the MoEF for potential adoption in other areas.

Members of the Suku Sembilan indigenous community harvest durian from the forest. For years, they used to fear capture by forest rangers, but are now recognized as legal managers of the communal forest area.

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

New areas for policy advocacy In the second year of policy community work, ProRep and partners expanded the program to initiate work on new areas. Partner Indonesia Budget Center is engaged in an effort to improve budget management and public oversight of spending and outcomes in the forestry and environment sectors. New partner, AKAR Foundation, has set ambitious targets for policy change within Bengkulu province, including the creation of land conflict resolution mechanisms, a green economic development strategy, and the issuance of community forest management licenses to farmer’s associations to promote community stewardship of forested areas. Recently, AKAR’s advocacy efforts resulted in a policy win - the enactment of Governor Decree No. C.569.VI.2015 on Community Forestry Utilization Permits (IUPHKm) for eight farmer’s associations in Lebong District, Bengkulu – the first ever of its kind in Indonesia. The national government is attempting to roll out an approach utilizing forest management units (KPH) to reduce deforestation and accelerate forest rehabilitation. As there are still many gaps in implementation, ProRep partner LePMIL is advocating for the enactment of a local regulation (perda) on the production and protection of forest management units in Southeast Sulawesi province as a legal framework to allow for future progress on this crucial issue.

related to natural resource management. They are providing suggestions on how these conflicts can be resolved, especially in relation to the local government’s responsibilities in forest management. Along these lines, Partnership for Governance Reform (Kemitraan), one of ProRep’s implementing partners, has been tasked with providing recommendations on how to improve implementation of the presidential moratorium on the issuance of new primary forest licenses. All of these recommendations are imperative for protecting Indonesia’s ever-decreasing forest and will be submitted to the relevant directorates in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Civil society’s active involvement and constant vigilance, promoted through the environment policy community, will help to keep the government on track with its ambitious agenda to develop a clear and effective regulatory framework that promotes the preservation of Indonesia’s rich biodiversity.

Issue-based Discussion and Planning Forums ProRep has held periodic meetings with the diverse set actors that make up the environmental policy community – including activists, academics, policymakers, and representatives from donor agencies and donor-financed projects – to discuss specific policy issues, and develop plans for future action. In 2014, meetings addressed three topics: the general idea of the environment policy community; recommendations on the environmental targets and programs within the Mid-Term National Development Plan; and research findings on benefitsharing mechanisms. In 2015, meetings focused on the budgeting of national environment and forestry programs, and opportunities to promote policies for fire and haze prevention. ProRep and its partners will continue to regularly share their progress with policy community members as they aim to grow and to generate further knowledge.

ICEL and new ProRep partner FKKM are part of the Conservation Working Group established to advocate for amendments to Conservation Law No. 5/1990 to strengthen deterrents to wildlife trafficking, among others. ProRep is currently supporting their efforts in drafting an academic paper for the House of Representatives’ consideration, and other efforts on informing the process of amending the law. Since the law was designated as a top priority in the National Legislative Agenda for 2016, partners are in a strategic position to push for longawaited changes in 2016. One of ProRep’s new partners, WCS, is also a member of the working group, and has been collaborating with MoEF and the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) in advancing an expanded list of protected species for recognition under Indonesian law. In the wake of a recent amendment to the Law on Local Government, and resulting shifts in the distribution of authority for issuing social forestry permits, ProRep partner RMI is developing policy recommendations for revisions to the related ministry regulations on Community Forestry (No. 88/2014) and Village Forestry (No. 89/2014) to improve the process of issuing these permits. RMI is also gathering data and conducting advocacy to influence Government Regulation No. 6/2007 on Forest Arrangement and Preparation of Forest Management and Forest Utilization Plans, which are currently being revised. ProRep is supporting HuMa in identifying conflicts between the updated Law on Local Government and other laws

A student bicycling to school wearing a mask to protect himself from the smoke that blankets the city of Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan. In response to the out-of-control forest and land fires that caused several areas of Indonesia and neighboring countries to be plagued by a choking haze, ProRep facilitated advocacy and research partners to appear before the Commission IV of Parliament on Agricultural, Plantations, Forestry, Maritime, Fisheries, and Food Affairs. The group of organizations, led by the Partnership for Governance Reform (Kemitraan), presented research revealing the underlying causes of the fire problem along with several actionable steps for prevention.

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Environment Policy Community Foundation for Coastal and Inland Community Development (LePMIL)

Epistema Institute Strengthening Tenure Rights of Indigenous Peoples through National and Sub-national Legal Reform

Advancing Community Participation in Production and Protection Forest Management Units

Lebak District, Banten; Sigi District, Central Sulawesi

Southeast Sulawesi

AKAR Foundation Promoting Fair and Sustainable Local Community Access and Control in Natural Resource Management

Article 33 Promoting National Policy on Local Level Incentives for Conservation

Connecting with stakeholders

Lebong District, Bengkulu

Advocacy and Research Organizations

Jakarta

Indonesian Institute for Forest and Environment (RMI),

Customary Forests and Social Forestry

Community Forestry Communication Forum (FKKM)

Advancing Recognition of Social Forestry and Forest Management Plans at the Local and National Levels

Promoting Community-based Conservation in the Revision of the Proposed Conservation Law West Java

Banten; Bengkulu; Jakarta

Promoting Policies for Forest Conservation and Sustainable Environment Protection and Management

Bogor, West Java

Government Stakeholders Sulawesi Institute

Biodiversity Conservation Policy

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)

Environment Protection and Management

Advocating for Indigenous Community Recognition and their Participation in Natural Resource Protection and Management

Strengthening Wildlife Protection Policies by Expanding the Protected Species List

Bombana District, Southeast Sulawesi

Bogor, West Java

Partnership for Governance Reform (Kemitraan) Advancing Protection of Forest Areas by Strengthening the Existing Moratorium on Issuance of New Forest Licenses

Indonesia Budget Center (IBC) Promoting Budget Effectiveness and Performance-based Budgeting in Forestry and Environment Sectors

Jakarta

Indonesian Center for Environmental Law (ICEL) Promoting Biodiversity Conservation in Environmental Licensing Modelling, and Updating Indonesia’s Conservation Law Jakarta; Bandung and Bogor, West Java

Bantaya Legal Aid Foundation Consortium for Agrarian Reform (KPA) Farmers group Indigenous communities in Lebak and Sigi Districts Indigenous Peoples’ Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN) Indonesian Scientific Institute (LIPI) Journalist Network for Environmental -Advocacy (Jurnal Celebes) Media Members of Regional Parliaments (DPRD) of Lebong and Rejang Lebong Moronene Kampo Hukaea Laea indigenous communities Network for Participatory Mapping (JKPP) Non-government organizations (NGOs) in Bengkulu Research institutions Sabaki Universities WALHI Water Resources Area Office

Community and Ecological Based Society for Law Reform (HuMa) Evaluating the Legal Impact of Changes in Local Government Law on NRM Legislation and Implementing Regulations Jakarta; Makassar, South Sulawesi; Pontianak, West Kalimantan

Bupati of Lebak, Rejang Lebong, Lebong, and Bombana Conservation Policy Working Group (POKJA) Directorate General of Forest Protection and Nature Conservation (PHKA) Directorate General of Naturan Resources and Ecosystem’s Conservation Environmental Office Forestry Office in 17 districts/cities Governor of Bengkulu Ketahun River Basin Management Office (BP DAS) Legislative and executive branches at the village, district, and provincial level Local CSOs and think-tanks working in environment and forest management Members of Parliament of Commission IV on Agriculture, Plantations, Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Food Ministry of Agrarian and Spatial Planning/ National Land Agency Ministry of Environment and Forestry Ministry of Home Affairs Ministry of Mining and Energy Resources National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) Rawa Aopa Watumohai National Park Office Regional Development Planning Board (Bapedda) Regional Government of Bombana Southeast Sulawesi Environment Office (BLH) Southeast Sulawesi Regional Development Agency Watershed Management Centre, Ministry of Forestry and Environment

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Recovering Rights of the Traditional Nature Defenders Indonesia’s indigenous people, who comprise an estimated one-fifth of the population,

along with 11 other villagers from one of the oldest indigenous

often find themselves on the losing end of land conflicts with the government, as well as

groups in Celebes, for destroying protected conservation areas and

mining and timber companies. Conflicts over customary land involving central and local

jailed for refusing to leave his ancestral home in the remote village

government and the private sector have beset indigenous groups, including the Semende

of Hukaea. Since his release, Mansyur has continually struggled for

tribe in Bengkulu, the Anak Dalam tribe in Jambi, the Talang Mamak tribe in Riau, and the

his community’s rights to the forest. With the new regulation.

Marga Belimbing community in Lampung. This extends beyond the issue of human rights. Indonesia’s indigenous people play a crucial role in preserving forests and natural resources. The sacred value they place on their forests obliges them to preserve and protect their environment. Their traditional wisdom, requiring that they use the forest wisely and preserve it for their descendants, makes them true environmentalists. Unfortunately, the law considers them illegal inhabitants and blocks

“

I hope our rights as equal citizens are recognized, and we no longer have to live in fear of being criminalized. Mansyur Lababa, Tobu Hukaea Laea indigenous community leader

their access to natural resources in the name of conservation.

”

Since Indonesia’s independence in 1945, there has not been one law established which

The group’s legal recognition as an indigenous community is just

provides substantial recognition for indigenous groups and their association to customary

an initial step, however it now paves the way for them to move

lands and forest, until recently. Just under three years ago, the Indonesian Constitutional

closer to gaining legal ownership of their land. At the national level,

Court issued a decision recognizing the constitutional rights of the indigenous people to

ProRep’s CSO and think tank partners are assisting the Ministry

their customary forest areas.

of Environment and Forestry (MoEF) to clarify and accelerate the process.

To help national and local governments translate this legal verdict into action – and the human rights and environmental benefits that would follow – USAID/ProRep is partnering with environmentally-focused CSOs Institute for Coastal Communities Empowerment (LePMIL), Sulawesi Institute, Rimbawan Muda Indonesia (RMI), AKAR Foundation and Epistema Institute. These CSOs help local governments implement policies acknowledging minority groups’ rights over customary land, reducing land conflicts, and promoting

sustainable forest and environment management. With active involvement of indigenous

indigenous community, fights for the rights of his

communities like Tobu Hukaea Laea, forest areas and other natural resources can be better

people. Mansyur hopes that “our rights as equal citizens

preserved.

are recognized, and we no longer have to live in fear of being criminalized.”

Through the partnership begun with LePMIL, and then furthered by Sulawesi Institute, ProRep supported the development of a draft local regulation incorporating views from indigenous groups that won the support of the local legislative and executive branches, and were included in the 2015 local legislation program (Prolegda). After months of intensive policy advocacy, the draft was enacted on August 26, 2015 as local legislation No. 4/2015 on the Recognition, Protection, and Empowerment of the Moronene Hukaea Laea Indigenous Community. The new regulation comes as a major breakthrough for Mansyur Lababa, a leader of the Tobu Hukaea Laea indigenous community. In 1998, he was sentenced to one year in prison

Aliansi Masyarakat Adat Nusantara (AMAN) http://www.greeners.co/berita/uang-dan-kekuasaan-mengalahkan-hak-masyarakat-adat/ 3 Constitutional Court Ruling Number 35/2013 1 2

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

strengths and assets. The coalition’s top policy priorities include improving oversight of the education budget, increasing community participation in policy processes, and strengthening the quality of teachers and teacher training institutions. In January 2016, the coalition and the ministry conducted a second symposium and national dialogue to continue work on agreed-upon areas for collaboration. Together, they looked at progress since the last working session and discussed ways to further strengthen collaborative efforts.

Working Hand-in-Hand to Strengthen the Education Ecosystem Advocacy efforts to improve Indonesia’s education policy reached a major turning point in 2015 with the launch of the National Education Symposium. Whereas previous efforts had been marked by separate initiatives and minimal interaction between policy makers and civil society, the event brought both sides together for an open and honest discussion about key issues facing Indonesia’s education system, and a collective exploration of potential solutions. © Josh Estey/ USAID/ Program Representasi

Education Policy Community The policy community initiated by ProRep in early 2015 has transformed into a new civil society alliance called the Civil Society Coalition for Education Transformation (Koalisi Masyarakat Sipil untuk Transformasi Pendidikan - KMSTP). The alliance’s membership now encompasses more than 30 nationaland local-level organizations that are working closely with Ministry of Education and Culture officials on reforming education policies. Shortly after its formation, KMSTP approached the Ministry of Education and Culture

With support from USAID/ProRep, the event brought together the Civil Society Coalition for Education Transformation (KMSTP), Education and Culture Minister Anies Baswedan, and key ministry staff to explore the central theme of “Grounding the Mental Revolution in the Education System in Indonesia” on February 24-25, 2015. The USAID/KINERJA and USAID/PRIORITAS programs were also involved in the symporsium. “This is the first time there has been such a massive movement and as significant as this. Previously, the process was always outside the line of advocacy. But this time, the movement was given direct access to policymakers in the education sector and enabled discussion of important issues on education,” said Febri Hendri from Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW), a member of KMSTP, about the importance of this formal interaction.

to explore potential partnerships. The ministry proved to be receptive to the idea, and opened its doors to developing a fruitful partnership. In February 2015, the ministry hosted a national forum with 150 members of the coalition to hold intense discussions on six issues: education quality, national curriculum, education boards and school committees, management of teachers, education budget, and accessibility of education.

“Each of us want change. The things we do now are a part of building the future. It is a strategy in which the public is involved in building better education and culture. My appreciation goes to civil society for implementing this program,” said Minister Anies Baswedan, who opened the event.

In his opening remarks, Minister of Education and Culture Anies Baswedan confirmed his commitment to opening up the ministry to public feedback and the possibility of working hand-in-hand with the civil society and other parties to improve the quality of education in Indonesia. Recommendations proposed by the coalition as a result of the two-day forum can be accessed here: http://representasiefektif.org/knowledge-detail&id=88 Indonesia Corruption Watch, Paramadina Public Policy Institute, Article 33, and Yayasan Satu Karsa Karya form the core of the ProRep-supported education coalition, and together they continue to strive for key reforms in education policy. Whereas initial efforts saw each organization pursuing its own specific agenda, coordination has since improved and resulted in clearly defined roles and functions to maximizing each other’s

The two-day symposium provided civil society participants an opportunity to discuss preliminary research findings and field observations on strategic issues, including access to education, teacher qualifications, budget allocations, and citizen participation. Initiated as an arena for dialogue between stakeholders working to improve educational policy in a comprehensive manner, the event also laid the foundation for lasting partnerships between civil society and the ministry for

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Education Policy Community

Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW)

Paramadina Public Policy Institute (PPPI) Strengthening the Role of Teacher Training Institutions in Improving the Quality of Elementary School Teachers

Improving Quality and Management of Teachers

Jakarta; Bogor Municpality, West Java; Medan, North Sumatera; Kupang; East Nusa Tenggara

Budget Allocation and Management

Improving the Quality of Education by Enhancing Public Participation

Minister Education and Culture Anies Baswedan, with Febri Hendri and Kangsure Suroto of the Civil Society Coalition for Education Transformation, speaks at the national CSO forum for education. ProRep and its partners are working hand in hand with the ministry to discuss how to improve the education system in Indonesia. On February 24-25, 2015, the national symposium “Grounding the Mental Revolution in the Education System in Indonesia” took place at the Ministry’s office. This year, a second workshop was held on January 7-8, 2016, where both parties reported progress and developed joint action plans on specific education issues.

future work on mutually identified priority areas. This foundation was largely built on several of the coalition’s recommendations, including recommendations on community participation and the role of school committees, which were subsequently included in the Ministry of Education and Culture’s Strategic Plan for 2015-2019. Throughout 2015, KMSTP’s members continued to communicate closely with several divisions within the Ministry of Education and Culture on policies and regulations that need to be improved and the relevant steps that are required. To help facilitate coordination on policy reforms, the KMSTP coalition was given a workspace for its liaison officer within the Ministry of Education and Culture. This important step helps to keep the civil society up-to-date on developments and dynamics within the ministry; and to maintain direct access to key education policymakers. In January 2016, the coalition and the ministry’s new Center for Policy Analysis and Synchronization (PASKA) division conducted a policy discussion to fast-track

“

Each of us want change. The thing we do now are a part of building the future. It is a strategy in which the public is involved in building better education and culture Anies Baswedan, Indonesian Minister of Education and Culture

”

progress on joint programs and policy initiatives. Organized under the theme, “Strengthening the Education Ecosystem to Increase Access, Quality and Social Justice in the Education Sector”, the event provided KMSTP members the opportunity to submit formal recommendations and findings based on research carried out throughout the last year. Looking beyond the end of the ProRep program, KMSTP’s members are considering future priorities, designing campaigns, and forming fundraising strategies to ensure the push for reform continues well into the future.

Advocacy to Change the Budget Allocation Policy for School Facilities and Infrastructure Jakarta; Bogor Municipality, West Java; Malang Municipality, East Java; Bima Munipality, West Nusa Tenggara

Jakarta

School Management

Foundation of Integrated Efforts (YSKK)

Article 33

Teacher Management – Rejuvenation of Teacher Administration through Advocacy of Government Decree Draft on Teacher Management

Civil Society Coalition for Education Transformation (KMSTP)

Making School Management Transparent, Accountable, and Participatory Gunungkidul District, Yogyakarta; Surakarta Municipality of Central Java and Bandar Lampung City, of South Sumatera.

Connecting with stakeholders Advocacy and Research Organizations

Government Stakeholders

Civil Society Coalition for Education Transformation (KMSTP) Civil society organizations Communities Care for Education in Solo (MPPS) Education activist Elementary teachers Local education NGOs Media Parents and parents associations Regional Education Council and Office Regional Parliament Religious Department Office School administrators School Committee Schools with Transparent, Accountable, and Participatory Management (Sekolah MANTAP) Students Teacher associations and coalition Teacher training institutions

Directorate General of Elementary and Midlevel Education Directorate General of Research and Development Directorate General of Teacher Education Parliament Forum Head of Local Education Office House of Representatives Commission X on Religious, Social, and Women’s Empowerment Affairs Local governments of Bima, Malang, and Bogor Local Parliament of Bogor, Bantul, Bima Member of Parliaments at national and local level Ministry of Education and Culture Ministry of Research and Technology National Education Standardization Agency (BNSP)

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Prakarsa East Java

Center for Regional Information and Studies (PATTIRO)

Improving Access to and Quality of Health Insurance Services for Women and Children

Improving Accountability and Citizen Participation through Multi-stakeholder Health Forums and SMS Technology

Lamongan District and Mojokerto Municipality, East Java

Semarang District and Surakarta Municipality, Central Java; Jeneponto District, South Sulawesi

Improving Health Policies and Their Implementation Through Enhanced Public Participation, Monitoring, Feedback, and Evidence-based Policy Recommendations to Health Policy Decision-makers © Josh Estey/ USAID/ Program Representasi

Frontiers for Health Foundation (F2H)

Health Policy Community

Promoting Improvements in the Accreditation Process for Community Health Clinics Surakarta Municipality, Central Java; Mojokerto Municipality, East Java; Jeneponto District, South Sulawesi

ProRep encourages its partners in the health policy community to develop alliances to improve health care for Indonesians with a focus on improving service delivery in West, Central, and East Java, and South Sulawesi while scaling up good practices by engaging national-level decision-makers. Partners are working on addressing issues related to the nascent national health insurance program5 ; improving the quality of services offered by community health centers and health workers; and incorporating improved public participation into routine monitoring mechanisms and periodic policy improvements. ProRep’s health policy community has gained traction on key policy issues, particularly at the local level, and has begun to share recommendations with key national-level stakeholders, who in turn have welcomed the input from civil society.

Support began in 2014 for three organizations working on the certification of health professionals, accreditation of health facilities, and implementation of the national health insurance program (Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional - JKN). Partners developed research and policy recommendations on improving community health centers (puskesmas) and maternal health services covered under the national health insurance program. The latter was presented to the Health Minister Nila F. Moeloek in March 2015, during an open forum with 167 activists and policymakers. ProRep currently supports three partners in the community: PATTIRO, Frontiers for Health Foundation, and Prakarsa East Java, who are building upon previous work as they continue to push for health-care reform and solidify partnerships with government actors. In December 2015, these partners and

Indonesia’s Center for Strategic Development Initiatives (CISDI), held a national dialogue on health policy issues with the Ministry of Health, where partners agreed to work together for the achievement of the new Sustainable Development Goals6 adopted by United Nations Member States. The health policy community’s work is in line with the Government of Indonesia’s commitment to participate in the Open Government Partnership (OGP) and work towards greater transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens, with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of governance, as well as the quality of services that citizens receive. (Read more about OGP on page 26)

In January 2014 Indonesia’s government launched an ambitious project: to establish a compulsory national health insurance system with the aim of making basic care available to all by 2019. http://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/2015/may/15/indonesias-universal-healthcare-insurance-verdict http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/

Connecting with stakeholders Advocacy and Research Organizations

Government Stakeholders

Community health center (Puskesmas) District Health Offices Diponegoro University Head of District of Jeneponto, Lamongan, Semarang Head of Municipality of Surakarta and Mojokerto Healthcare and Social Security Agency (BPJS) Local government of Lamongan, Mojokerto, Surakarta, Jeneponto, and Semarang Local hospitals Members of Regional Parliament (DPRD) Ministry of Health National Health Insurance Program (JKN) service provider Ombudsman Republik Indonesia (ORI) Padjajaran University Regional Development Planning Agency(Bappeda)

Community health center (Puskesmas) District Health Offices Head of District of Jeneponto, Lamongan, Semarang Head of Municipality of Surakarta and Mojokerto Healthcare and Social Security Agency (BPJS) Local government of Lamongan, Mojokerto, Surakarta, Jeneponto, and Semarang Local hospitals Members of Regional Parliament (DPRD) Ministry of Health National Health Insurance Program (JKN) service provider Ombudsman Republik Indonesia (ORI) Regional Development Planning Agency(Bappeda)

2016 ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2015

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

A mother brings her baby to the local health center for a check-up. In most parts of Indonesia, communities are not involved in health program monitoring, or in community health decisions.

Indonesian Minister of Health Nila Moeloek (right) receives a policy brief from Sita Aripurnami of the Women Research Institute along with United States Deputy Chief of Mission Kristen Bauer in the National Health Seminar on March 25, 2015.

©Wiwik Widyastuti/ USAID/ Program Representasi

Community Involvement Becomes a Driving Force in Improving Public Health In Indonesia, despite improvements in economic prosperity,

better health conditions, USAID/ProRep is partnering with PATTIRO

local government and local citizens to contribute funds to build

Maternal and Neonatal Survival (EMAS) Program to learn from

maternal mortality continued to increase significantly between

in Central Java and South Sulawesi to foster greater public

public toilets and showers for poorer residents.

their successful SMS-based referral and public-complaint system.

2007 and 2012. Inadequate health-care facilities, staffing

participation and transparency in local health program management

shortages, and a lack of technical skills in underdeveloped areas

– through the implementation of multi-stakehodler forums (MSFs)

The Semarang District government found the MSF system so

regardless of economic status, residents can send in complaints

– compounded by limited public awareness on steps needed

and SMS-based feedback systems.

effective that it plans to issue a local regulation (peraturan bupati) to

and other feedback related to health services. They also include

standardize the implementation of similar forums across the district,

additional features that help midwives refer mothers in labor to

to maintain a healthy pregnancy – contributed to high maternal

These systems utilize affordable SMS technology, so that

mortality rates. Even in areas where local governments assigned

PATTIRO began promoting the MSF approach in 2014, where

and requested support from civil society in drafting the technical

larger health facilities, and tools that help local health agencies to

substantial funds for health programs – as was the case in Central

health service administrators, community representatives, and

and implementation guidance (Petunjuk Pelaksanaan/Juklak and

analyze health trends.

Java’s Semarang District – maternal and infant mortality rates

local government representatives jointly discuss and advocate for

Petunjuk Teknis/Juknis) to complement the regulation. Similarly,

remained alarmingly high.

improvements to the local health-care system. Through MSFs, the

the administration of Jeneponto District in South Sulawesi issued a

The local governments partnering with PATTIRO have been

community is able to provide direct input on health programs in

regency decree on December 18, 2015 to establish the MSF as the

pleased with early results from the SMS gateway systems,

“We learned that even when the government sufficiently allocated

their immediate vicinity. This input then helps health-care providers,

official complaint-handling mechanism for public health issues. This

which are housed in the respective local health office, and have

budget resources for the health sector, and planned and executed

including the , hospitals, and the local government, to make

successful local initiative, which has potential for replication in other

committed funds to maintain this important feedback mechanism.

a wide range of health programs, it did not necessarily mean that

informed decisions to respond to community priorities. “Community

areas across Indonesia, was recently shared with national level

MSFs have also monitored complaint trends based on the

the communities – especially women and children, the two most

participation is key for smooth implementation of health programs,”

stakeholders at the national dialogue held at the Ministry of Health

system’s data and have recommended solutions to health-care

vulnerable groups – were well protected,” said Rokhamad Munawir

said Budi Suswanto, head of the Community Health Center

in December 2015.

providers (i.e., the service unit and the local health office) and the

of PATTIRO, a local NGO focusing on good governance and

(Puskesmas) Leyengan, Semarang District, Central Java.

improvement of public participation in Indonesia.

local legislative council. Using technology to expand the reach of the MSF networks,

Because the government typically developed programs with

This collaborative MSF model has already led to tangible

PATTIRO then partnered with a number of local administrations

minimal community consultation, Mr. Munawir went on to say,

improvements. For example, the MSF in East Semarang sub-district

to launch SMS gateway systems, including “SMS PANDAN” in

communities had little opportunity to be formally involved in

worked with the government to allocate funds in the 2016/17 local

Surakarta on October 2, “MATRA STAT” in Semarang on October 6,

program planning and monitoring, let alone to participate in the

budget to improve the road connecting several villages to the local

and “SMS LONTARA” in Jeneponto, South Sulawesi on October 9.

decision-making process.

health center, and the MSF in East Semarang persuaded both the

During the earlier design phase, local health officials and PATTIRO

As greater community involvement can be an important driver for

staff visited the implementation sites of the USAID/ Expanding

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

ProRep and Partners’ Policy Journey January to December 2015

DEC

Mid-term National Development Plan 2015 – 2019 released.

FEB

OCT Ministry of Education and Culture joins forces with civil society coalition (KMSTP). The coalition discussed pressing education policy issues with ministry officials and obtained the minister’s commitment to work together to improve the education system in Indonesia.

WRI presented its research results on how midwifery services are impacted by the new national health insurance program (JKN) and delivered recommendations on needed improvements to health minister and other key policymakers at national seminar.

National Dialogue with Ministry of Health on Sustainable Development Goals.

Indonesian anti-corruption experts share experience and lessons learned in Tunisia with peers from Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Libya and Ethiopia.

ProRep partners meet with Ministry of Health officials and other stakeholders to develop a joint action plan for improving the quality and accessibility of health services.

ProRep facilitated advocacy and research groups to present recommendations on fire and haze prevention before the House of Representatives’ Commission IV on plantations and forestry affairs.

Activists succeeded in lobbying the Bombana administration to adopt District Regulation (perda) No 4/2015 on the “Recognition, Protection, and Empowerment of the Hukaea Laea Indigenous Community”. The regulation paves the way for the community to then gain official ownership of their customary forest areas.

MAR Women Research Institute (WRI) advises Ministry of Health on improvement of maternal health services.

CSOs testify before House of Representatives on wildfires.

CSOs help Southeast Sulawesi indigenous community gain official recognition.

AUG Policy Research Network (PRN) experts hold public seminar to assess the first year of President Widodo’s administration.

JUL Policy community program enters second phase. In 2015 ProRep expanded the program and initiated 26 formal partnerships, up from 11 in the previous phase. Advocacy and research partners are working on advancing equitable, sustainable and progressive policy initiatives in health, environment, and education.

lem Prob

The Public Policy Making Process

Im ple Poli me cy nt at ion

y lic ion Po ulat rm Fo

Polic Evalu y ation

JAN

ProRep-supported coalition of environmental organizations provided input and recommendations on the environmental targets and programs included.

y n lic io Po opt d A

Advocacy wins forest use permits for farmers associations.

Launch of SMS Gateway for better health services. PATTIRO and local governments in Surakarta, Semarang and Jeneponto launch SMS Gateway systems to improve public feedback on health services.

The Bengkulu Governor’s Decree on Community Forest Permits (IUPHKm), drafted by the AKAR Foundation for eight farmer associations in Rejang Lebong Regency, is enacted on November 19, 2015. The new regulation helps to safeguard the forest as well as the livelihoods of farmers and their families.

NOV

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Supporting Indonesia’s Commitment to Foster Open Government The Open Government Partnership (OGP) is a global initiative through which participating countries’ governments and civil society work together to develop and implement open government reforms. Indonesia was the co-founder of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in 2011 and served as its co-chair from 2012 to 2014. By joining OGP, countries commit to the pillars of the Open Government Declaration, which include increasing the availability of information about governmental activities, supporting civic participation, implementing the highest standards of professional integrity throughout the administrations, and increasing access to new technologies for openness and accountability.

Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), the Foreign Ministry, and the Office of Presidential Staff. To better engage the public and local governments in advancing open government principles, ProRep is also helping to upgrade the OGI’s website and identify three locations for open government pilot programs at the sub-national level.

ProRep | Newsletter Vol.1 2016

Representation Toolkit: Policy Engagement Resources at Your Fingertips

Shaping the Debate: Policy Briefs and Op-Eds

Since its inception in 2011, USAID’s Program Representasi (ProRep) has continually worked to improve the representative aspects of Indonesia’s democratic system by facilitating engagement and collaboration among civil society organizations, research institutions, and policymakers. It is through these connections that policymakers can better represent the needs of the public at large, while also utilizing research results to inform their decisions.

Rome was not built in a day; and policy change is also no easy feat. When it comes to influencing policymakers, the ability to provide well-written material, built upon compelling facts and a solid rationale is an important component of any overall advocacy strategy. Although these skills are crucial, not all advocacy actors – organizations as well as individuals – have the ability to transform the pen into an effective advocacy tool.

Throughout the course of the project, ProRep developed and delivered a series of trainings to strengthen the capacity of the actors involved in policymaking – CSOs, think tanks, and legislative representatives and their staff. For this, ProRep brought in numerous Indonesian and international experts – both academics and practitioners – to enrich understanding of various topics relevant to advocacy, policy research, legislative drafting, constituent representation, and many others. To ensure that these crucial resources are available to Indonesia’s agents of change beyond the life of the program, ProRep created the Representation Toolkit – a portal containing a compilation of discussion notes, training materials, and publications that is accessible through the Knowledge Center section of our website, www.representasiefektif.org

The momentum that ProRep-supported policy communities have generated through partnerships between civil society and government for increased citizen participation and improved service delivery are contributing to Indonesia’s overall open government vision.

In support of its mission to strengthen those working on the frontlines for policy change, ProRep facilitated training sessions for its partners on writing opinion articles and developing persuasive policy briefs. Starting in March 2015, facilitators Alamsyah Saragih, former Chairman of Central Information Commission, and experienced advocacy activist Hendrik Rosdinar, joined forces to deliver three individual training sessions for ProRep’s policy communities on health, education, and environment. The aim was clear: Training sessions should prepare partners to generate concise, evidence-based policy briefs that offer recommendations for select policymakers. Compelling pieces should help busy policymakers to make timely, practical and well-informed decisions. The trainers urged participants to present solutions that not only encompassed civil society’s views, but also took into account those of the government. Participants were encouraged to explain why their recommended policy adjustments were the best options and offered the maximum benefit.

ProRep is currently supporting the restructuring of the Open Government Indonesia (OGI) program, which is tasked with coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the OGP action plan. Under the current government administration, the National Secretariat involves the National

“

After the training, I understand how to formulate policy recommendations that are sharper, clearer, and more measurable. Siti Juliantari Rachman, Public Service Monitoring Division, Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW).

”

Five Essential Ingredients of an Effective Policy Brief:

Recent Publications from ProRep and Partners Strengthening Indonesia’s Role in Global and Regional Cooperation USAID’s ProRep program is providing support to the Indonesian government’s National Coordination Team (NCT) to advance its plans to develop a robust assistance program for other developing nations.

the Indonesian government with practical guidance on how it could develop partnerships with universities, civil society organizations, and the private sector for international cooperation.

While numerous small-scale initiatives have taken place under the auspices of various ministries, a consolidation effort led by the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) is molding the program into what may eventually become an agency or division tasked with delivering Indonesian aid to other countries.

ProRep also worked with the NCT on pilot initiatives, which were designed to share Indonesia’s assets and experience with other countries that are in need of expertise, included a disaster-preparedness training and peer-to-peer exchanges on anti-corruption and the justice sector.

ProRep collaborated with the US-based Urban Institute and the Indonesia-based LPEM FEBUI on a study to provide

1. Focus on the issues and the targeted policy 2. Compelling evidence, strong analysis 3. Logical recommendations based on evidence 4. Clear and practical recommendations 5. Interesting and eye-catching overall structure

“

Writing an opinion is an effort to take back the public space, bridging the aspirations, and effective law enforcement. Irwan Julianto, former journalist, KOMPAS.

”

writing opinion articles in a comfortable, collegial setting. “Many researchers in Indonesia lack the skills to transform academic research reports into influential, informative pieces. Thus, in order to endorse the changes desired, good writing skills are definitely ‘must-haves’ for every advocacy actor,” said Alin Halimatussadiah, a researcher with the Institute for Economic and Social Research at the University of Indonesia’s Faculty of Economics (LPEM FEUI). During the training, the participants learned about journalistic principles, writing techniques, developing angles, structuring articles, news value, and important do’s and don’ts. Participants gained hands-on experience in writing opinion articles through individual coaching sessions with the trainers, and later utilized peer-review sessions to share their work and identify further improvements. Eveline of the Frontiers for Health Foundation succeeded in getting her article published in The Jakarta Post as a result of the training. She said, “The training on writing opinion articles conducted by ProRep made us – the civil society organizations – aware of the importance of publishing an opinion article on every intervention or study that we conduct.” The following op-eds were produced by the participants, and published in mainstream media outlets: The Jakarta Post: “Know thy enemy: Indonesia’s foreign policy on IS” – January 2, 2016 Koran Sindo: “Pekerjaan Rumah Kepala Daerah Perempuan” – December 22, 2015 The Jakarta Post: “Tobacco: Are we losing the war?” – May 29, 2015 The Conversation: “Why Ramadan is a special economic season in Indonesia” – July 1, 2015 Selesar.com: “Local Elections: A Reflection of the Condition of our Democracy” (Bahasa Indonesia) – July 12, 2015

In addition to policy briefs that target policymakers directly, opinion articles, or “op-eds” can also serve as a powerful advocacy tool. Written by experts offering a unique perspective on an issue, op-eds often serve as references for policymakers, help to shape public discourse, and garner public support throughout the policymaking process. Bambang Wisudo, a senior journalist and education enthusiast, trained and coached 26 representatives from civil society organizations and research institutions in three batches throughout April, May, and December 2015. Training sessions also featured special guests, including The Jakarta Post opinion editor Ati Nurbaiti, former Kompas journalist Irwan Julianto, and The Jakarta Post senior editor Endy M Bayuni. These experts shared tips and advice on how the Indonesian media works and how to avoid common mistakes in

©Sheila Kartika/ USAID/ Program Representasi The Jakarta Post senior editor Endy Bayuni shares tips with Policy Research Network (PRN) members on how to get op-ed articles published in the media.

What’s Coming in 2016? • USAID/Indonesia is conducting an evaluation of the policy community/cluster approach implemented by the USAID/ProRep Project in January - February. •

Partner AKAR Foundation in Bengkulu will hold a one-day community event on January 24th in Lebong, Bengkulu to officially hand over community forestry permits for eight associations of farmers’ groups (Gapoktan) and develop an action plan for management and financing.

•

Indonesian Ministry of Justice officials will travel to Cambodia to share experiences in implementing a successful case tracking system on February 14-20.

• The environment policy community will hold a meeting to share progress and lessons-learned on policy reform initiatives in the first week of March. •

ProRep will host its project closing event on March 22.

Indonesia Program Representasi (ProRep) is a five-year project on democracy and governance from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Its aim is to connect people, experts, and policymakers to improve public policies and representation. ProRep is implemented by Chemonics International in partnership with the Urban Institute, Social Impact, and Kemitraan. For more information visit www.representasiefektif.org or contact us at info@prorep.or.id. Program Representasi (ProRep) Wisma GKBI Suite 2105 Jl. Jend. Sudirman No. 28 Jakarta 10210, Indonesia Representasi Efektif

P: +62 (0) 21 5793 0407 F: +62 (0) 21 5793 0408 info@prorep.or.id www.representasiefektif.org @Representasi_ID

@RepresentasiEfektif