Prabowo establishes Indonesia's National Commission for UNESCO

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO (KNIU), a move formalized through Presidential Regulation Number 31 of 2026. This initiative seeks to bolster Indonesia's engagement and influence in international arenas related to education, science, culture, and information.

The newly formed KNIU operates directly under the President and is tasked with coordinating and harmonizing efforts among central and regional governments, as well as other stakeholders. Its mandate includes facilitating, coordinating, synergizing, and synchronizing activities across various sectors to advance UNESCO programs throughout the archipelago.

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KNIU has the task of facilitating, coordinating, synergizing, and synchronizing in the fields of education, science, culture, as well as communication and information across sectors in the development of UNESCO programs.

Key functions of KNIU encompass mapping and planning programs, formulating strategies, fostering cooperation, and overseeing the implementation of UNESCO initiatives within Indonesia. The regulation also outlines the commission's organizational structure, comprising directors, a chairman, members, working groups, and a secretariat.

The Minister responsible for human development and cultural affairs will serve as the director of KNIU, while the minister overseeing cultural affairs will act as its chairperson. Membership includes ministers and heads of agencies involved in foreign affairs, education, higher education, science, communication, and research.

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The Chairperson shall report on the performance and execution of duties and functions of KNIU to the President at least once in 1 (one) year or at any time if necessary after coordinating with the director.