Indonesia’s fourth promise should be a dignified nation—built on capability, opportunity and independence. Every October 28, Indonesians commemorate the Youth Pledge of 1928: one homeland, one nation and one unifying language. Nearly a century later, those commitments remain the foundation of national identity. But they raise a harder question: is a shared identity enough to sustain a nation? A flag, constitution and government establish a state. A nation also requires solida

From Europe's ageing population and America's immigration enforcement disputes to Indonesia's underutilized young workforce, demographic change is testing government effectiveness and public trust. Public demonstration in France. Economic grievances and political dissatisfaction have become important features of Europe's wider social debate. Demographic change unfolds slowly. Its political consequences can emerge abruptly. Across Europe, disputes over immigration, housing, em

Rising global borrowing costs expose Indonesia's fiscal weaknesses, making efficient spending, credible governance, and accountable management of public wealth more urgent. The price of money is increasingly determined beyond Indonesia's borders. When US Treasury yields rise, emerging economies face more intense competition for capital, investors demand higher returns, and governments must borrow at greater cost. Indonesia is no exception. Costly initiatives, including the Fr