“Revolution—Lead Up”

Whilst UNESCO was developing the above initiatives to enhance the knowledge, community power and personal growth that characterized each of the previously reported programs –from indigenous tribes to the modern city, the real world of political and economic forces was triggering dispute and finally Revolution. This chapter takes the reader into the leadup to Indonesia’s Revolution in May 1998, economic collapse through 1997 into 1998, significantly influenced by corruption within the President’s own family. Stephen was there—with his UNESCO staff seeking ways of responding to help the most economically affected—including a mission he took along with the other UN Agency Heads to consult with the most affected communities as far as out as to the most remote villages of Indonesia in Kalimantan. A key message from the people was that no matter what, they wished to maintain education for their children, basis for a major education reform initiative Stephen championed that is the subject of Chap. 16 . With severe danger on the horizon, he then, with staff, built internal UN communication and escape strategies if serious conflict emerged as did happen as presented in this chapter.