JOINT STATEMENT OF THE CIVIL SOCIETY COALITION REGARDING THE FORMATION OF THE JOINT TASK FORCE REGULATION OF DEFORESTATION AND DEGRADATION FREE COMMODITIES FOREST

This joint statement was prepared by a coalition of civil society movements in Indonesia consisting of various groups, including CSOs, independent oil palm farmer unions, oil palm plantation workers, indigenous community organizations, local communities, women and youth. They welcomed the joint initiative between Indonesia, Malaysia and the European Union to form a Joint Task Force (JTF) to face the European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR).

The formation of the JTF will have a positive impact in increasing dialogue regarding traceability and transparency of agricultural commodity supply chains that are at risk of causing deforestation and forest degradation. Unfortunately,  the first consultation process by the JTF on August 4th 2023, was carried out behind closed doors and was not inclusive, violating the basic principles of democracy. We highlight the lack of sufficient public information that can be accessed by vulnerable stakeholders who will be affected, such as smallholders, plantation workers, indigenous peoples and local communities.

We consider that formulating an agreement that has a broad impact without involving all stakeholders, especially those affected, is a violation of democratic principles and human rights. Therefore, JPIK together with coalition members submitted a series of proposals to ensure transparency, participation, inclusiveness and accountability in all stages of the JTF, so that it does not only represent certain interests.

Name of coalition member organization signing the letter: