Sugiono Reaffirms Human Rights Commitment as Indonesia Assumes UNHRC Presidency

Geneva: Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening the protection and enforcement of human rights at both the national and global levels.

The commitment uphold as the country assumes the presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Speaking at the 61st High-Level Segment of the UNHRC in Geneva on Monday 23 February 2026, Sugiono addressed global delegates amid rising geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises worldwide.

“The trust placed in us, especially at a time of profound global uncertainty, is a great responsibility that we carry with utmost seriousness,” Sugiono said, quoted from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement.

Sugiono stressed that, for Indonesia, human rights are rooted in dignity in everyday life—ranging from access to food, healthcare, and education to security and equal opportunities for advancement. Under President Prabowo Subianto, he said, Indonesia continues to pursue national transformation aimed at strengthening social justice.

“Expanding access to nutritious food, healthcare, housing, education, and economic empowerment is not merely about policymaking; it is about realizing fundamental rights,” he emphasized.

Strengthening National Human Rights Framework

Indonesia is currently developing the sixth generation of its National Human Rights Action Plan (RANHAM), designed to enhance inter-ministerial coordination, strengthen accountability, and ensure measurable and sustainable human rights promotion and protection.

Sugiono added that Indonesia continues to reinforce collaboration with national human rights institutions in line with international norms.

He also highlighted recent legal reforms, including the enactment of a new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, which he said reaffirm Indonesia’s legal sovereignty while maintaining a balance between order, freedom, and welfare.

Defending Multilateralism and Impartiality

In its capacity as Council president, Indonesia views multilateralism as being under pressure. Sugiono warned that geopolitical tensions must not erode the credibility of the UNHRC.

To remain relevant and trusted, he said, the Council must uphold impartiality, objectivity, and transparency, while avoiding polarization and selective approaches.

“The principle of universality of human rights should unite our common purpose, not divide our approaches,” he said.

Addressing Regional and Global Crises

On regional issues, Indonesia reiterated its commitment to resolving the crisis in Myanmar through the full and effective implementation of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus and strengthening the role of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.

Regarding Palestine, Indonesia reaffirmed its consistent and unwavering support for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.

Indonesia called for an immediate cessation of violence, unhindered humanitarian access, and the realization of a just and lasting peace based on a two-state solution in accordance with international humanitarian law.

“Indonesia reaffirms its firm and consistent support for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people,” Sugiono stated.

Looking Ahead

Concluding his remarks, Sugiono invited UNHRC members to reflect ahead of the Council’s 20th anniversary, underscoring the need to preserve the institution as principled, consistent, responsive, and fair.

This year marks the final year of Indonesia’s current membership term on the Council. Indonesia expressed appreciation for the trust it has received and announced its intention to seek re-election for the 2030–2032 term.

Sugiono affirmed that Indonesia stands ready to work with all delegations to ensure the UN Human Rights Council remains a platform for international cooperation and a pillar strengthening global multilateralism.