The first edition of JTI Slow Conversations, “All we need is growth.. or not?”, aims to introduce degrowth as a concept and invite a discussion on its potential as an alternative framework for thinking about development and just transition in Indonesia, and the broader concept of growth, justice, and sustainability. The main goals are twofold: 1) to encourage discussions on degrowth and just transition outside of academia where it is more commonly found, and 2) to develop a network of thinkers, scholar-activists, practitioners, and others, for future collaborative works that advance the degrowth mindset among the Indonesian public. The intention is not necessarily to critique the current stream and direction of development in the country, but to critically reflect on where we stand as an individual and collective in our pursuit for a better future.

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We expect to catalyze more public conversations and debates about degrowth as a viable perspective for development and just transition in Indonesia. Young Indonesians who are already engaged in activities aligned with degrowth principles (such as permaculture, conscious consumption, or slow fashion) are introduced to the broader framework. We hope the conversations can encourage them to think at a conceptual level and connect their localized eff orts to a wider systemic movement, recognizing that community initiatives must operate collectively to be effective. The project is also expected to establish an active, informal network of thinkers, scholar-activists, young professionals, and practitioners. This coalition will be equipped to collaborate on future projects that advance the degrowth mindset among the Indonesian public. By linking the degrowth and transition concepts with deeply rooted local traditions like gotong royong (mutual cooperation) and arisan (rotating savings), we expect to come up with a collective and uniquely Indonesian understanding of sustainability and justice.