UNDIP, Washington, D.C., United States (15/5) – As part of its efforts to achieve its vision of becoming a World-Class University, Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) continues to participate in international academic forums as a strategic initiative to strengthen the role of higher education institutions in addressing global issues. One of these efforts was the participation of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wiwandari Handayani, a lecturer from the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Diponegoro (DPWK FT UNDIP), in a workshop titled“Rebuild or Retreat: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Migration and Mobility in the Global North.”
The event was organized by the German Historical Institute (GHI) on April 23–24, 2026, in Washington, D.C., United States. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wiwandari was invited as an academic participant to discuss research findings on (im)mobility—a condition in which communities choose not to migrate—alongside scholars and practitioners from various parts of the world.
During the workshop, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wiwandari presented insights on issues of (im)mobility and environmental challenges exacerbated by climate change, using case studies from the Northern Coastal Region of Java (Pantura Java), Indonesia, particularly Jakarta, Pekalongan, Semarang, and Demak. Her presentation highlighted the dynamics of community mobility in response to environmental pressures and contributed an Indonesian perspective to the global discourse.
As the northern coast of Java faces increasing climate-related risks, many residents are choosing to relocate to areas with better living conditions, leaving their hometowns behind. However, many others are unable to move due to financial constraints and limited resources. In addition, some communities choose to remain in place despite the reality of natural disasters.
“Innovation and collaboration among educational institutions, across disciplines and countries, are key to delivering real solutions to global issues such as climate change—particularly regarding its impact on communities faced with the decision to move or stay,” stated Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wiwandari Handayani during her presentation.
Participation in this workshop is expected to serve as a concrete step for UNDIP in fostering deeper academic discussions and strengthening international collaboration networks on issues related to migration, mobility, and environmental change.
This activity is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through such initiatives, UNDIP hopes to continue contributing to collaborative solutions for global challenges. (Public Communication/UNDIP/FT)