Yulida Pangastuti

Peace-building - Indonesia (East Asia)

In Yulida Pangastuti’s native Indonesia, the ongoing war against global terrorism is being waged against the backdrop of another unfinished struggle – the fight for democracy and human rights. Over the past few years, militant Islamic groups have become increasingly active, with some being accused of having links with al-Qaeda, including the group blamed for the Bali bombings of 2002. This has prompted the government to introduce anti-terrorist measures, which Yulida believes undermine Indonesia’s transition to a more democratic, rights-based civil society. As a researcher and programme assistant for PACIVIS – a center for global civil society studies – Yulida stresses the importance of dialogue between the state and civil groups in developing a long-term anti-terrorism strategy which protects all citizens without compromising their human rights.

“The problem of terrorism is real and it threatens not only the state but also society as whole. Therefore, the voice of the individual should also be heard”.

Although often derided by leaders as troublemakers, Yulida is particularly keen that youth should have a place in the consultation process. Through her organisation, she plans to facilitate a constructive exchange between the government, radical Moslem leaders, and the young people of Indonesia to ensure that anti-terrorism does not equal repression.