President Prabowo Establishes Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO

President Prabowo Subianto has officially established the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO (KNIU) through Presidential Regulation Number 31 of 2026. This move aims to bolster Indonesia's international engagement in education, science, culture, and communication.

The newly formed KNIU will operate directly under the President. Its mandate includes coordinating and aligning efforts between central government, regional authorities, and other stakeholders involved in various UNESCO programs within Indonesia. The regulation, signed on May 13, 2026, emphasizes the commission's role in fostering cross-sectoral collaboration.

According to Article 3 of the Presidential Regulation, KNIU is tasked with facilitating, coordinating, synergizing, and synchronizing activities across education, science, culture, and communication sectors related to UNESCO's development programs. The commission will also undertake functions such as mapping, planning, aligning programs, developing strategies, facilitating cooperation, and monitoring the implementation of UNESCO initiatives in the country.

The organizational structure of KNIU, as outlined in Article 5, comprises steering elements, a chairman, members, working groups, and a secretariat. The minister overseeing human and cultural development affairs will serve as the steering lead, while the minister responsible for cultural affairs will act as the chairman. Membership includes ministers from various portfolios, including foreign affairs, education, research, and communication, as well as heads of relevant government agencies.