Voices for the Future

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

1. Project Background, Goals, and Objectives

Indonesia is the world’s third largest democracy and over half of its population is under the age 30. Because of this large youth demographic, the United States has an opportunity to engage the next generation of Indonesian leaders. For the last several years, however, Indonesian favorability towards the United States has failed to increase despite good government-to-government relations that have resulted in support for trade and military agreements. Meanwhile, as countries such as Russia and China have invested heavily in soft power tactics, their favorability ratings have grown substantially. Adversaries in the region further invest substantial resources to altering public perceptions of America and U.S. government policies through information warfare in both traditional and digital media.

The U.S. Embassy Voices for the Future debate team network and championship will support young Indonesian leaders who will help counter growing narratives against the United States that may threaten policy wins. In the age of rapidly developing technology that will fundamentally alter the information space, sharpening the critical thinking, debate, and English language skills of Indonesian youth will equip them to navigate complex information environments, identify anti-American propaganda and media manipulation, and advocate for policies that promote reciprocal trade, regional security, and U.S. - Indonesia cooperation. This program will build upon the popularity of our youth programing, including YSEALI programing, which receives substantially more applications than available slots – allowing more youth with interest in the United States to build positive connections with America. EducationUSA will also hold information sessions on legal U.S. study pathways with students.

Project Audience(s):

● Geographic Location: Jakarta, Samarinda, Makassar, Padang.

● Indonesian high school students ages 15-17 with...