5 Countries Building New Capitals, Including Indonesia's IKN
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - There are many reasons why a country might move its capital, ranging from managing population density and alleviating traffic congestion to reducing economic inequality. History records several countries around the world that have successfully relocated their capitals, including Brazil and Australia.
Meanwhile, several countries are currently in the process of moving their capitals. Here is the list:
- Indonesia
Indonesia is moving its capital from Jakarta to Nusantara in East Kalimantan. The relocation is being undertaken to mitigate various issues facing Jakarta, such as chronic congestion, flooding, land subsidence, and the excessive concentration of economic activity on Java Island. Nusantara is designed as a forest city, embracing a sustainable development concept with modern and environmentally friendly infrastructure. The construction process is ongoing, and the relocation of government functions is being carried out gradually.
- Egypt
The Egyptian government is gradually transferring government functions from Cairo to the New Administrative Capital, a new city built approximately 45 kilometres east of the current capital. Announced in 2015, the project aims to reduce severe congestion, population density, and the pressure on Cairo’s urban areas. In addition to serving as a government hub, the new city is also designed as a modern business centre. Several ministries and government agencies have already begun operating there, making it Egypt’s primary administrative centre.
- Iran
Iran has also proposed moving its capital from Tehran to the Makran region on the country’s southeastern coast. This plan emerged because Tehran faces various issues, including traffic congestion, air pollution, earthquake risks, and high population density. Although it has been a subject of government discussion, the project is still in the study phase and does not yet have a definite implementation schedule.
- South Korea
South Korea is implementing a policy of government decentralisation by developing Sejong City, approximately 120 kilometres south of Seoul. Since its establishment in 2012, Sejong has become the location for various ministries and government agencies. However, Seoul remains the official capital of the country due to constitutional considerations. Currently, Sejong functions as the administrative capital and continues to be developed as a smart city to encourage balanced regional development.
- South Sudan
South Sudan has long planned to move its capital from Juba to Ramciel, located in a more strategic position in the centre of the country. This plan was approved shortly after South Sudan gained independence in 2011. The relocation is expected to strengthen national unity while reducing the pressure on the rapidly growing Juba. However, budget constraints and political challenges have delayed the project, meaning Juba remains the official capital for now.
In general, these various capital relocation projects demonstrate the efforts of governments in various countries to address modern challenges through better urban planning. Despite facing different obstacles, the primary goal remains the same: to build more effective, sustainable government centres capable of supporting the needs of future generations.