Jakarta’s Forecast! is one of the featured programs of Jakarta Future Festival 2026, aimed at mapping the city’s trajectory toward its 500-year future. Carrying the theme In Today’s World, How Do Cities Respond?, this discussion explores how cities, including Jakarta, must respond to increasingly complex global dynamics, ranging from geopolitical tensions and climate crises to economic uncertainty. In alignment with Jakarta’s direction under Jakarta Rise #20: Governance, Institutions, and Financing, Jakarta is no longer viewed merely as an administrative entity, but as an active actor capable of building international networks, contributing to global geopolitical forums, enhancing international visibility, and strengthening its position as a key player in global diplomacy. Jakarta’s engagement opens opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strategic positioning at the international level. Moving forward, strengthening urban diplomacy and the ability to interpret and respond to the global landscape will be key for Jakarta to lead among cities on the global stage.