About Us

USINDO was founded in 1994 by Indonesians and Americans who had experience in both countries and who saw the need for an organization that would enhance the understanding of Indonesia and the United States in each other’s country, and deepen the relationship between the two countries and their peoples. The Society is incorporated in the District of Columbia and is a tax-exempt charitable and educational organization as described in Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States.

Considering that Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous nation and third-largest democracy, with a global role and importance to U.S. interests, it is relatively little understood in the United States.  And notwithstanding the dominance of the United States in world news, many Indonesians have an incomplete understanding of the United States.

President Jokowi and President Obama agreed to elevate our bilateral partnership to a “Strategic Partnership” during President Jokowi’s visit to the U.S. in October 2015.  They further stated that “recognizing the invaluable contributions of civil society and the private sector to the two democratic countries and their broader relationship, the two Presidents welcome civil society engagement and non-governmental tracks which will be important to the vitality of their Strategic Partnership”.

Facilitating such engagement is a core part of USINDO’s mission to help strengthen the U.S.-Indonesia relationship. We aspire to expand mutual understanding in the areas of politics, economics, history, culture, and to strengthen the bilateral relationship. We promote this mission through programs with leaders in government and nongovernmental organizations, educators, the media, business, and the general public. We provide timely and accurate information through lectures, conferences and discussions, and promote education through scholarships, legislative exchange, travel grants and educational projects in Indonesia, including forging new linkages between U.S. and Indonesian universities.