UNS — The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta, held a webinar in collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy in Jakarta on Friday (8/4/2022). This webinar is part of the international events series entitled “UNS Global Fiesta” to commemorate the UNS 46th Anniversary in 2022. UNS Global Fiesta is an event that invites representatives from one of the Embassies in Indonesia, such as Norway (8 April 2022), Malaysia (14 April 2022), the United States, and Sweden.
The webinar successfully attracted a total of 92 participants. In this webinar, the Norwegian Embassy was represented by Eivind Forbord Røvig, Second Secretary of The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia. While Rezza Akbar, Lecturer of the Study Program (Program) Sociology of FISIP UNS, served as the Moderator for the session, while the Vice-Dean for Human Resources, Finance, and Logistics Affairs of FISIP UNS, Dr. Ahmad Zuber, opened the event with a welcoming remark.
In his material presentation, Eivind Forbord Røvig explained Norwegian history as a Viking nation until it transformed into an advanced nation, though it was categorized as small in the context of the area and population. Røvig explained that currently, Norway manages to rely on hydro energy by utilizing its water resources as an energy source. This energy source is more efficient and environmentally friendly, although the Norwegian economy is supported by the discovery of a large number of oil resources in Norwegian water territory. However, the Norwegian government’s green policy stipulates that oil is only produced for sale abroad. Therefore, domestic energy sources are focused on national commitments to use the more environmentally friendly hydro energy.
In addition, Røvig also explained how Norway handled the Covid-19 pandemic. He stated that since the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Norwegian government distributed vaccines to the entire population, then required them to stay at home for a while. This lockdown policy is effective. Proven by the recent policy taken by the Norway government to eliminate the imposing rules that require everyone to wear a mask and do social distancing. The success of Covid-19 control in Norway then made the situation in the country now seems to have recovered as it did before the pandemic.
In concluding his presentation, Røvig mentioned that Indonesia is more populous, wider in area, and more socially heterogeneous, making it more socially and politically complex compared to Norway. However, Røvig is optimistic that as long as democracy is still implemented openly and substantively, Indonesia’s future will be bright with all the potential that can be optimized. Humas UNS
Reporter: Zalfaa Azalia Pursita
Editor: Dwi Hastuti