30 Months of Peacebuilding in Indonesia: EU-Supported “Strengthening Social Cohesion Project” Concludes

After 30 months (2023–2025), the Strengthening Social Cohesion Project (SSCP) has officially concluded, marked by a series of closing events held in Bandar Lampung and South Lampung on 23-24 May 2025. Funded by the European Union (EU), the project directly engaged 3,870 individuals and 23 youth led civil society organisations (CSOs), ultimately impacting more than 350,000 people.

Implemented through a national and local consortium led by ChildFund International in Indonesia, SSCP has enabled youth-led and youth-focused CSOs to promote peace through culture-based approaches. By collaborating with educational institutions and local communities, SSCP has adapted and integrated traditional cultural mechanisms – Piil Pesenggiri – in Lampung to strengthen social cohesion and prevent conflict.

"We are pleased to see young people becoming pioneers of peace despite existing social challenges. SSCP proves that when young people are given space and trust, they can drive real change. We hope this initiative will have lasting impact beyond South Lampung, serving as a model for collaboration across sectors," said Stephane Mechati, Minister Counsellor/ Deputy Head of Mission, EU Delegation to Indonesia.

"This programme focuses on three key areas: peace education, strengthening cultural narratives through youth voices, and cross-generational dialogue to foster sustainable social unity," added Husnul Maad, Country Director of ChildFund International in Indonesia.

SSCP has achieved significant milestones in South Lampung. Initially targeting 10 schools, the Peace Education Module was successfully implemented in 166 schools with the endorsement of the local Education Office. Four other local government institutions have expressed interest in replicating this module, highlighting its potential for scalability. The project also played a crucial role in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and draft Governor Regulations to reinforce conflict prevention policies.

Through its community engagement efforts, SSCP has brought together key stakeholders, facilitating meaningful collaboration. Training programmes reached 402 participants, enhancing the capacity of youth, educators, and government officials in culture-based conflict resolution. Additionally, 440 traditional and religious leaders contributed to cultural integration strategies, while 259 government officials engaged in discussions on violence prevention. Six youth CSOs successfully adapted traditional conflict resolution approaches, emphasising inclusivity and the active roles of women and youth in local development.

Although SSCP has officially concluded, its legacy of peacebuilding will endure. Strengthened collaboration between youth, CSOs, government bodies, traditional institutions, and communities ensures the sustainability of its impact.

"We will continue to advance this mission. Several initiatives born from SSCP will persist through community-driven efforts and local partnerships. The project has provided best practices and policy recommendations, which have been submitted to policymakers in Lampung Province," stated RD. Agustinus Sunarto Yoga Pamungkas, Chairman of Yayasan Pembinaan Sosial Katolik (YPSK), an implementing partner in Lampung.

SSCP Project