KBRN, Jakarta: The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring accountability for any alleged misconduct by security forces, following international attention on recent nationwide protests.

In a statement issued Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in Jakarta, the ministry responded to concerns raised by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which has been closely monitoring developments surrounding demonstrations across Indonesia.

“As a democratic nation, Indonesia remains steadfast in its obligation to protect the human rights of all citizens, as guaranteed by the Constitution, national legislation, and international law,” the ministry said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The government acknowledged OHCHR’s remarks as part of the UN body’s mandate to support member states in fulfilling their international human rights obligations. The ministry also expressed regret over the casualties and damage resulting from the protests, including vandalism, arson, and looting.

Freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and the right to voice opinions are fundamental rights recognized both domestically and globally, the statement emphasized.

“Public aspirations are an integral part of democratic life, and the state is responsible for ensuring these rights are exercised peacefully. Law enforcement officers operate in accordance with human rights principles and standards,” it added.

The ministry further clarified that the deployment of police during demonstrations aimed to maintain public order, safeguard civilians, and protect public infrastructure in a proportional manner.

It stressed that any allegations of abuse by authorities are subject to transparent and accountable legal processes, with President Prabowo Subianto affirming that violators will be prosecuted under the law.

To reinforce public trust, the government has established complaint mechanisms and a dedicated monitoring team, while also guaranteeing press freedom during law enforcement operations.

“These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to balancing civil liberties, public order, and social harmony, ensuring that democracy, rule of law, and respect for human rights advance in tandem,” the ministry concluded.

Meanwhile, OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, in a post on social media platform X on Tuesday, called for a prompt, thorough, and transparent investigation into all alleged human rights violations, particularly regarding the use of force.

She urged Indonesian authorities to uphold the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, while maintaining public order in line with international standards governing protest management.

Shamdasani also reminded that the involvement of security forces, including the military, in law enforcement must adhere strictly to established principles on the use of force and firearms. ***