A week of inspiring ideas, meaningful dialogue, and collective action that brought communities together

From April 21 to 27, 2025, the Institut français d’Indonésie (IFI) successfully hosted La Nuit des Idées (the Night of Ideas), which was expanded this year into Semaine des Idées or Ideas Week. Carrying the theme "Time to Act," the event unfolded simultaneously across four major cities, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya—bringing a spirit of reflection and change through more than 20 public programs.

This annual initiative, part of a global movement held in over 100 countries, aimed to promote the exchange of ideas and foster dialogue on key contemporary issues. In Indonesia, Ideas Week featured a diverse array of activities including conferences, film screenings, artistic performances, debates, and participatory workshops—all designed to raise awareness and inspire tangible action.

Researchers, artists, students, activists, NGOs, and engaged citizens took part in numerous sessions addressing urgent topics such as climate change, human rights, gender equality, democracy, innovation, and civic engagement. These participants served not only as speakers but also as key actors in fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.

The culmination of the week took place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at IFI Thamrin in Jakarta, coinciding with Car Free Day. From 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., the atmosphere transformed into a vibrant and energetic “festival of possibilities.” More than 20 local NGOs joined to share their initiatives, lead workshops, and engage directly with the public in open dialogue.

Through this year’s Ideas Week, IFI succeeded in providing an inclusive platform for diverse communities to reflect on their roles in shaping change. The event not only celebrated the transformative power of ideas but also reinforced the importance of turning those ideas into meaningful action for a better future.