5 Countries Relocating Their Capitals, Indonesia Included
A number of countries around the world are designing or executing capital relocations as part of long-term development strategies. These moves aim to tackle traffic congestion, population density, and to create more efficient and sustainable government centres. Here are five countries that are planning or have begun the process of moving their capital cities, according to Seasia Stats:
- Egypt
The Egyptian government is gradually shifting administrative functions from Cairo to the New Administrative Capital, a new city being built approximately 45 kilometres east of the current capital. The project, announced in 2015, aims to reduce severe congestion, overcrowding, and pressure on urban areas in Cairo. In addition to serving as a government centre, the new city is also designed as a modern business hub. Several ministries and government agencies are already 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. The plan emerged because Tehran faces various problems, including traffic congestion, air pollution, earthquake risks, and high population density. Although it has been a topic of government discussion, the project remains in the study phase with no fixed implementation schedule.
- South Korea
South Korea is implementing a government decentralisation policy by developing Sejong City, located about 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 due to constitutional considerations. Currently, Sejong functions as the administrative capital and continues to be developed as a smart city to promote more balanced regional development.
- Indonesia
Indonesia is also on the list of countries relocating its capital through the construction of Nusantara in East Kalimantan. The relocation aims to alleviate various problems faced by Jakarta, such as chronic traffic congestion, flooding, land subsidence, and the excessive concentration of economic activity on the island of Java. Nusantara is designed as a forest city that embraces 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 in stages.
- South Sudan
South Sudan has long planned to move its capital from Juba to Ramciel, which is in a more strategic location in the centre of the country. The plan was approved shortly after South Sudan gained independence in 2011. The relocation is expected to strengthen national unity while reducing pressure on the rapidly growing city of Juba. However, budget constraints and political challenges have delayed the project, leaving Juba as the official capital for now.
Overall, these various capital relocation projects demonstrate efforts by governments worldwide to address modern challenges through better urban planning. Despite facing different obstacles, the main objective remains the same: to build government centres that are more effective, sustainable, and capable of supporting the needs of future generations.