TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The United Nations (UN) in collaboration with the Government of Indonesia and its development partners, launched a book exemplifying the commitment to the principles underpinning the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - particularly the promise to leave no one behind.

The book, titled ‘Those Not Left Behind: Uniting for Inclusive Development in Indonesia’, compiles 22 compelling stories from across the nation, include a collection of narratives from across Indonesia, including tales of firefighters in Riau's peatlands, educators in West Java’s special needs schools, refugees furthering hope through education, and CEOs fostering gender equality, serves to illustrate the tangible impacts of the United Nations' efforts within the country.

The front cover of "Those Not Left Behind" tells the stories of 22 individuals in different parts of Indonesia who have benefited from the cooperation of the UN and the Indonesian government. (UN in Indonesia/Bayu Wicaksono)

Valerie Julliand, the UN's Resident Coordinator in Indonesia, said "The essence of sustainable development lies in our collective promise to leave no one behind. This book brings to life the stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed through our concerted efforts".

These personal accounts not only document instances of assistance and progress but also celebrate the resilience and spirit of the Indonesian people, reinforcing the UN's mission to uphold every individual's dignity and rights.

Indonesia, as the world's fourth most populous and largest archipelagic nation, poses unique sustainable development challenges and opportunities. The UN utilizes its global expertise in coordinating with various development partners and assisting the Indonesian government through policy advice and practical projects designed to reach a broader segment of the population.

Vivi Yulaswati, Deputy Minister at the Ministry of National Development Planning (BAPPENAS), highlighted the book's role in showcasing positive change stories from Indonesians who were most at risk of being overlooked. Supported by the comprehensive Leave No One Behind (LNOB) study, this publication is a step forward in addressing systemic barriers and ensuring inclusive development.

In conjunction with the book launch, the UN in Indonesia also released a study aimed at understanding the development of resilience systems to benefit people with disabilities in underdeveloped areas, identified as one of the most marginalized groups in a 2022 study. This new analysis seeks to enhance the status of these communities through strategic insights and an operational guide that underscores a rights-based approach, the development of context-specific solutions, and stakeholder collaboration.

This initiative, rooted in the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework between the UN and the Government of Indonesia, reinforces the commitment to an inclusive development agenda that leaves no one behind.

Editor's Choice: Indonesia Showcases Commitment to SDGs at World Expo 2025 in Osaka

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News