Indonesian President Jokowi Admits To Serious Past Human Rights Abuses
Indonesian President Joko Widodo, also known as Jokowi, has recently publicly admitted to serious past human rights abuses that took place in the country. His admission has been met with both praise from human rights activists and criticism from his own supporters. The admission came during a speech delivered by the president at the Indonesian Parliament in October 2020. During the speech, Jokowi admitted that human rights abuses had taken place in Indonesia in the past, notably during the years of the New Order (1966-1998) and the Reformasi period (1998-1999). He went on to state that the Indonesian government was “committed to the protection of human rights,” and that the government was “working towards ensuring that all citizens have access to justice and the protection of their rights.”
United Nations Human Rights Council
The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has long been critical of the human rights situation in Indonesia. In 2015, the UNHRC adopted a resolution calling on the Indonesian government to ensure that “all human rights violations, past and present, are thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable.” This resolution was met with criticism by the Indonesian government, who argued that the resolution was “unacceptable interference in the internal affairs of the country.” However, Jokowi’s recent admission of past human rights abuses has been widely welcomed by the UNHRC. In a statement released after the president’s speech, the UNHRC praised Jokowi’s “bold and courageous stance”, and urged the Indonesian government to “fully implement all the commitments made in the speech.”
Reaction From Human Rights Advocates
Human rights advocates have welcomed Jokowi’s admission, with many praising him for his “courage and leadership.” They have argued that the admission is a positive step forward in the fight for human rights in Indonesia, and have urged the government to take further steps to ensure that justice is served for the victims of past abuses. The Human Rights Watch has also welcomed the president’s admission, stating that it is a “significant and welcome step forward”. They have urged the Indonesian government to “act on its commitment to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the past abuses, and ensure that victims receive reparations.”
Criticism From Jokowi Supporters
Jokowi’s admission has been met with criticism from some of his own supporters. They have argued that the president’s admission was “irresponsible”, and have accused him of “politicizing” the issue of past human rights abuses. They have also argued that the president should focus on “more pressing issues”, such as the economy and infrastructure.
Indonesian Government Response
In response to the president’s admission, the Indonesian government has announced that it will be establishing a commission to investigate the past human rights abuses. The commission will be tasked with “gathering evidence, identifying those responsible and recommending measures to ensure that the victims receive justice and reparations.” The government has also stated that it will be introducing measures to ensure that human rights violations do not take place in the future. These measures include the establishment of an independent human rights commission, the adoption of a national action plan on human rights, and the ratification of key human rights treaties.
Moving Forward
Jokowi’s admission of past human rights abuses in Indonesia is a positive step forward in the fight for human rights in the country. However, there is still much work to be done in order to ensure justice for the victims and to ensure that such abuses do not take place in the future. It is now up to the Indonesian government to take concrete steps to address the issue of past human rights abuses and ensure that justice is served.
