The Voices Of Vulnerable Gropus On Public Policy: UNY’S Efforts to Support SDG 16 Through Social Interviews in Malioboro

APERO FUBLIC  I  OPINI.-  Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, through students in the Civic Education Program, conducted social interviews on the theme “Voices of Vulnerable Groups on Public Policy” in the Malioboro and Teras Malioboro areas of Yogyakarta on May 4, 2026, and May 15, 2026.

This activity aimed to explore the aspirations and grievances of the community, particularly street vendors and people with disabilities, regarding various government policies that impact their daily lives. The activity aligns with the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, specifically in promoting community participation and access to social justice for all citizens.

This activity was motivated by the importance of creating a space for dialogue for community groups that are often directly affected by public policies. The theme focused on the implementation of government policies regarding vulnerable groups and small communities, particularly regarding the relocation of street vendors to Teras Malioboro and access to public facilities for people with disabilities.

The interviews were conducted by Civic Education UNY students with sources from among street vendors and visually impaired individuals.

One of the speakers, Mr. Suki, a vendor at Teras Malioboro, discussed the various economic challenges he faced following the relocation, while Mr. Faidin, a person with visual impairments, explained the accessibility barriers to public facilities and services that remain not fully inclusive.

Through this activity, students gained an understanding of the importance of public policies that are participatory, transparent, and supportive of vulnerable groups. The interview topics covered community experiences regarding the implementation of government policies, public services, accessibility of public facilities, and community expectations of the local government.

“My hope is that the government always involves people with disabilities in every discussion regarding policies and public facilities,” said Mr. Faidin during the interview session.

Meanwhile, Mr. Suki hopes the government will pay more attention to the economic sustainability of small vendors following relocation. This activity directly involves students and the community as a form of contextual learning regarding democracy and social justice.

In addition to aligning with SDG 16, this activity also supports SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities by strengthening the voices of marginalized groups in public spaces.

Moving forward, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta is committed to continuing to support the implementation of the SDGs through community-based service and research activities.

Through activities such as interviews and social observation, it is hoped that students will become agents of change who are sensitive to social issues and capable of promoting policies that are more just, inclusive, and supportive of all segments of society.

Oleh :  Fadhil Aditya Hermawan dan Tim

Editor :  Tim Redaksi