The National Human Rights Commission of Indonesia (Komnas HAM) has raised serious concerns about the government’s draft of the Human Rights Bill (RUU HAM) currently being prepared by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.
According to Komnas HAM’s internal review, at least 21 crucial articles in the bill could potentially undermine the commission’s authority and independence as an independent state institution.
Komnas HAM Chairperson Anis Hidayah, S.H., M.H., explained that several articles in the proposed law deserve close attention, as they could change the institutional norms and weaken the commission’s powers established under Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights.
“Based on our assessment, there are 21 critical articles that need serious attention. These provisions risk reducing Komnas HAM’s authority as an independent institution,” Anis said, as quoted by RRI on Friday (October 31, 2025).
One of the most concerning provisions, Anis noted, is Article 109, which removes several key powers previously held by Komnas HAM.
“If the new bill passes, Komnas HAM would no longer have the authority to receive and handle human rights complaints, conduct mediation, or carry out human rights education and awareness programs,” she explained.
She further added that Komnas HAM’s role in human rights studies and assessments would also be limited, except for matters related to regulations and international instruments. According to Anis, this restriction could significantly hinder the commission’s mission to protect people’s rights.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Law and Human Rights stated that the revision of the Human Rights Bill is actually intended to strengthen the role of human rights institutions, including Komnas HAM.
The Ministry’s Secretary-General, Novita Ilmaris, emphasized that the drafting process has involved human rights organizations and civil society groups.
“The statement from the Komnas HAM Chair is an important input for us. Discussions are still ongoing to ensure the revision truly strengthens human rights institutions, not weakens them,” Novita said.
The debate over the Human Rights Bill has now drawn significant public attention, as it directly affects the future of human rights protection in Indonesia.
Many hope the final version of the bill will ensure a transparent, fair, and independent framework that allows Komnas HAM to continue upholding the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
