KontraS Blasts Mahfud MD Over Claims in Human Rights Council Session

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Human rights group, the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), on Tuesday criticized the Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security Affairs Mahfud MD, which it deemed had downplayed facts about human rights in Indonesia as the minister attended the United Nations Human Rights Council. 

KontraS deputy coordinator Rivanlee Anandar in a text message on June 14 said, “The country, through Mahfud, cannot continue to cover up the facts about the lack of human rights protection by highlighting a few cases.”

He mentioned the issue of protection against traditional communities which he believes is currently only protected by policies even though these vulnerable communities continue to be threatened by agendas towards developments. 

“Their voices are not heard,” said Rivanlee. 

The KontraS deputy also talked about the issues related to violence against religious minorities, genders, the lack of freedom of expression, and issues closely tied to Papua. 

“This is important to reflect on improving human rights protections in the future,” he added. 

Mahfud MD in the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on June 13 said Indonesia has prepared a national act on human rights from 2021 to 2025 which aims to better accommodate four main target groups that comprise women, children, people with disabilities, and traditional communities. 

He claims that 85 percent of Indonesians have received health insurance, which Mahfud claims is part of the country’s sustainable development goals.

M ROSSENO AJI

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