How JRS Responds in Indonesia

JRS Indonesia accompanies refugees and asylum seekers through programs centered on dignity, protection, and long-term support.

Core Programs

• Basic needs and financial support
• Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS)
• Education and training
• Advocacy

Key Projects

Walking with Asylum Seekers and Refugees

In Greater Jakarta, JRS supports refugees and asylum seekers through basic needs assistance, mental health and psychosocial support, education, training, and advocacy.

Protecting Refugees in Asia (PRiA)

In Aceh, JRS runs a protection program for Rohingya refugees with a focus on advocacy and emergency response.

Today’s Challenges

1. Recognition of refugee rights

Refugees in Indonesia face an uncertain future because there is no legal pathway for them to obtain citizenship.

2. Project funding gaps

Funding cuts threaten JRS programs that help reduce stress, expand educational access, and strengthen support for asylum seekers and refugees.

3. Services for refugee youth

There is significant unmet demand for more certified training and educational opportunities for refugee youth, especially programs that support future livelihoods and resilience.

Critical Needs

Many refugees in Indonesia are struggling to meet their basic needs. Funding cuts from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have increased the risk of homelessness for some refugee families, while support for refugee children to attend public school has also declined.

At the same time, rising prices have made it even more difficult for refugee individuals and families to afford food and other essentials. In response to direct requests from refugee communities, JRS Indonesia has launched an open donation campaign to help refugees cover basic living expenses, even if only temporarily.

Refugee-Led Impact

JRS believes that the best responses to refugee challenges are shaped in partnership with refugees themselves.

• As of June 2025, 72 asylum seekers and refugees were actively contributing to community-based initiatives in Cisarua
• These individuals serve as teachers or facilitators in 10 refugee-led organizations and initiatives
• JRS supports these efforts through training, mentorship, tools, and learning materials

Localizing Aid

Before launching its Walking with Asylum Seekers and Refugees project in Greater Jakarta, JRS Indonesia conducted a needs assessment that included interviews with refugee communities and other stakeholders. The findings helped shape the project approach and confirmed the importance of continued support for vulnerable refugees.

The assessment also highlighted a strong demand among young refugees for certified training and education. In response, JRS Indonesia began a collaboration with Jesuit Worldwide Learning to provide a certified English program for refugees.

Impact of Limited Funding

Although JRS Indonesia does not receive direct funding from the U.S. government, changes in global funding priorities can still affect operations indirectly. Reduced support has serious consequences for refugees who are already living on the edge.

• Refugees may lose access to food, shelter, and health care
• Women, children, and individuals without other safety nets are especially vulnerable
• Reduced funding places greater strain on education, mental health support, and refugee-led community programs

Frequently Asked Questions

How does JRS help refugees in Indonesia?

JRS helps refugees in Indonesia through basic needs assistance, mental health and psychosocial support, education and training, advocacy, and emergency response.

Why are refugees in Indonesia vulnerable?

Many refugees in Indonesia face legal uncertainty and barriers to education, health care, and stable livelihoods. Funding shortages have also made it harder for many families to meet basic needs.

Who does JRS serve in Indonesia?

JRS serves refugees and asylum seekers from countries including Afghanistan, Somalia, Sudan, Myanmar, Yemen, Iraq, and Iran.