The ILO takes part in engaging the media on climate change issues

JAKARTA, Indonesia (ILO News) - The ILO participated in a journalist workshop titled “Narrating Climate Change”, jointly organized by the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Indonesia and Radio of the Republic of Indonesia (RRI), Indonesia's first public radio network. Held on 27 February in Jakarta, the workshop brought together 40 RRI anchors, journalists, and writers. The workshop was officially opened by RRI’s Head of Competency Development, Yulian Saba.

Ananda Alonso Nacher, ILO’s Technical Officer for Just Energy Transition, represented the organization at the event. In her presentation, she emphasized the critical role of strong political will in advancing renewable energy and addressing climate change. She also highlighted the need for substantial investment in the sector, stating, “If there is no clear political will and no policy coherence, it will not create opportunities for investors to support renewable energy. Consequently, progress will remain slow."

She also took the opportunity to explain about the Innovation Regions for a Just Energy Transition project (IKI-JET), one of the ILO’s projects focused on the transition from coal to renewable energy in East Kalimantan and South Sumatra. She noted that the project ensures the inclusion of all groups from workers and businesses to the local community and indigenous society and takes into account their diverse interests.

If there is no clear political will and no policy coherence, it will not create opportunities for investors to support renewable energy. Consequently, progress will remain slow.

Ananda Alonso Nacher, ILO’s Technical Officer for Just Energy Transition

“Through this initiative, the ILO supports the Indonesian government in creating a skills roadmap to determine priority sectors for economic diversification and identify the skills required in areas such as solar panel production, manufacturing, sustainable tourism, and more,” she explained, adding that the ILO is also building a Community of Practice for Just Energy Transition in Asia.

Ananda highlighted some countries like China and India that have already made some progress in dealing with climate change. “Of course, there is still a long journey ahead. Other nations, including Indonesia, are also making efforts,” she concluded. “By sharing experiences and exchanging ideas, we can learn not only from successful practices but also from challenges and areas needing improvement.”

Another speaker from the UN, Mathilde Sari Gokmauli, UNDP’s Programme Manager for Climate Change and Energy, emphasized that addressing and mitigating the diverse effects of climate change is a collective responsibility. She also highlighted the role of media organizations and journalists in presenting news in a way that fosters shared awareness and engagement.