Youth for the Earth: The Role of Young Activists in Indonesia’s Climate Justice Movement

Abstract

This paper explores the pivotal role of youth in Indonesia's climate justice movement, highlighting how young activists are driving transformative change in the fight against climate change. As one of the most climate-vulnerable nations in the world, Indonesia is witnessing a surge in youth-led climate activism, with young people increasingly taking a stand to address environmental degradation and social inequality. This study examines the ways in which young activists are challenging both environmental injustice and the inequitable impacts of climate change, particularly in marginalized communities. Drawing on case studies, interviews with youth leaders, and an analysis of youth-driven campaigns, the research highlights how young people are reshaping the climate justice discourse by advocating for policies that integrate environmental sustainability with social equity. The paper finds that youth movements in Indonesia are not only raising awareness about climate change but are also mobilizing grassroots actions, organizing protests, and influencing policy debates at local, national, and international levels. However, challenges such as limited access to decision-making processes, political resistance, and a lack of institutional support remain barriers to their full participation. The research argues that the youth-led climate justice movement is essential in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future, emphasizing the need for greater support for youth inclusion in climate policymaking. This study contributes to the broader conversation on climate justice by illustrating how young activists are central to advancing climate solutions that prioritize both ecological and social justice.