RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta: Indonesia will lead for the first time the regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) during its 61st Session in Geneva, Switzerland. This momentum marks the initial implementation of Indonesia’s role after officially assuming the position as the 20th President of the UN Human Rights Council on 8 January 2026.

Director for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of Indonesia, Indah Nuria Savitri, during a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday, 19 February 2026, stated that the session represents an important milestone for Indonesia.

“So in the 61st Session of the Human Rights Council, this will be the first session where we preside over a regular session of the Council as the 20th President of the Human Rights Council,” She said.

According to her, 5Indonesia’s leadership takes place amid various global challenges affecting human rights issues. These dynamics, she said, will be reflected in the proceedings taking place in Geneva, Switzerland.

“And of course, this session is taking place amid numerous dynamics, particularly concerning the promotion and protection of human rights. Issues that draw the attention of the international community are usually reflected in the deliberation process. We certainly hope that the Human Rights Council, as the UN’s main platform for addressing global human rights issues, can maintain its credibility and consistency, while effectively and efficiently discussing the various related matters,” She stated.

Indah Nuria also stated that in its capacity as President of the UN Human Rights Council, Indonesia must remain impartial and be able to facilitate and ensure that the Council runs properly and effectively. Nevertheless, as a member state, Indonesia will continue to put forward its positions, commitments, and priority issues that reflect its national interests.

Moreover, she expressed hope that Indonesia’s leadership in the UN Human Rights Council would serve as a strategic momentum to strengthen Indonesia’s diplomatic role at the multilateral level, while also demonstrating its commitment to inclusive and balanced human rights governance amid the complexity of the current global situation.