Yogyakarta, November 25th 2025 – The Peace and Conflict Resolution Interest Program (MPRK) at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) once again demonstrated its commitment integrating academic studies with current social issues. UGM’s MPRK, with a thematic discussion session on Tuesday (November 25th), collaborated with the Beranda Migran community to explore the complexities and vulnerabilities faced by Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI).
This activity provided an essential learning space for students broadening their theoretical understanding of conflict, social justice, and human rights in the context of migration.
Uncovering the Challenges Behind Departure
In this lively and critical forum, participants were invited to examine the often-overlooked challenges faced by PMI. The discussion focused on:
- Pre-Departure Process: Vulnerabilities arising of the recruitment stage, training, to the lengthy and abuse-prone administrative process.
- Risks Abroad: Issues of protection, fulfillment of basic rights, and the risks of exploitation and violence faced while working in the destination country.
The issue of protecting and fulfilling the rights of migrant workers emerged as a core topic of discussion, providing in-depth insights into the dimensions of structural vulnerability that need to be addressed.
The Migrant Home Community: Critical and Reflective Voices
The presence of the Migrant Home community brought valuable on-the-ground perspectives. Community representatives provided critical and reflective perspectives on the importance of awareness and active involvement in promoting social change.
This discussion emphasized an important philosophy for MPRK students:
“A deep academic understanding of conflict and peace must be accompanied by a moral commitment to speak out and fight for justice for vulnerable groups, such as migrant workers.”
Strengthening Academic Contributions for Justice
At the conclusion of the session, the UGM MPRK Program expressed its high appreciation to Beranda Migran for the collaboration that enriched the students’ insights and fostered empathy.
It is hoped that this type of activity will strengthen the role and contribution of academics and MPRK UGM students in advocacy, protection, and advancement of the rights of Indonesian migrant workers. This cross-sector collaboration serves as a model for how peace science can be applied concretely for social justice.
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Author: Mariano Ombo
Editor: Burhanul Aqil