UNDIP, Semarang (September 4, 2025) – The academic community of Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) expressed concern over Indonesia’s recent political and social developments, particularly demonstrations that claimed lives. In response, UNDIP called on its community to voice a peace appeal for Indonesia, urging unity, solidarity, and cooperation amid the nation’s challenges. The peace declaration was delivered by UNDIP Rector Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., along with the academic community at Widya Puraya Field, UNDIP Tembalang campus, on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
“Thank you to the Chair of the Academic Senate, the Board of Trustees, Vice Rectors, Deans and their staff, as well as the Heads of BEM, the Student Senate, and students who voiced their aspirations in an orderly manner—this reflects the dignity of UNDIP’s academic community,” Suharnomo said at the opening of the event.
He emphasized that the call was not only the voice of academics but also a moral appeal to shine a light of humanity in times of darkness, and a reminder that the nation’s future can only be built on justice and solidarity. Dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect, he said, are essential.
During the peace declaration, the Rector read out points reflecting UNDIP’s stance in support of a safe and prosperous Indonesia:
- Expressing deepest condolences for the lives lost during demonstrations. Their passing is not only a tragedy for their families but also a wound for the nation. UNDIP prays for the victims’ families and hopes their sacrifice reminds all Indonesians of the importance of upholding humanity and justice.
- Urging law enforcement to prioritize persuasive, humane, and proportional approaches in maintaining order. State apparatus, he said, should not act as instruments of repression but as protectors of the people. Violence, he warned, only deepens mistrust and fuels conflict, while empathetic and dialogical approaches strengthen public trust and the honor of law enforcement institutions.
- Affirming that demonstrations are a form of free expression guaranteed by the Constitution. However, UNDIP called for aspirations to be expressed peacefully, upholding brotherhood and avoiding violence or division so that messages can be conveyed and received effectively.
- Reminding the government and the House of Representatives to repeal policies that undermine justice, widen the gap between political elites and the people, threaten democracy and civil society, and serve only elite or oligarchic interests.
- Encouraging the government and the House of Representatives to genuinely listen to public aspirations and revise policies openly, transparently, and accountably to ensure a healthy and just democracy.
Through this peace declaration, Universitas Diponegoro and its academic community hope the government, law enforcement, and all levels of society can work together to create a safe, harmonious, and peaceful atmosphere for a more just and prosperous Indonesia. (Public Communication/ UNDIP/ Ut)
