At the Knowledge Sector Initiative we have just published two new working papers on various aspects of the Indonesian Knowledge Sector and on evidence to policy processes, systems, and experiences. I really enjoyed working on these papers.
Arnaldo Pellini, Tanty Nurhayati Djafar and Ni Wayan Suriastini
This working paper reflects on the experience of SurveyMETER, a policy research institute based in the Yogyakarta, in testing the use of episode studies to describe a policy influence and policy engagement process that SurveyMETER had been leading. Episode studies are one of the tools that can help policy research organizations and think tanks to document the uptake of their research work and/or the degree to which the evidence they have produced has informed policy processes and policy actors. A key lesson from the experience of SurveyMETER is that the investment of time and resources to produce the episode studies is the result of the intent and commitment from the leadership of the organisation to learn about what works and what does not in their policy engagement and policy influence activities.
Inaya Rakhmani, Arnaldo Pellini and Yenti Nurhidayat
Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia but ranks only 88th (out of 167 countries) in Transparency International’s 2015 Corruption Perception Index. Anti-corruption reforms in Indonesia have been slow due to generalised expenditure inefficiencies, and the misuse both at national and local levels of public funds. The government is trying to address these issues but these efforts also require the involvement of non-state actors. Civil society organisations, have been involved in this policy issue since 1998. SEKNAS FITRA is one of them. This policy research and advocacy organisation has played a prominent role to push for more budget transparency in Indonesia. This working paper describes how SEKNAS FITRA has evolved over the years and how, by linking policy research and advocacy, it has become a key non-state actor in this policy area.
