STATEMENT BY THE DELEGATION OF INDONESIA *) INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE WITH THE UN HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AT THE 28TH SESSION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Mr. President,
First of all, we thank the High Commissioner for his first March session report.
We reaffirm our commitment to work with him in mutual respect and constructive manner.
Mr. President,
It is undeniable that the only constant thing in the world we live is the change.
We witness events unfolding every time.
We have to face challenges continuously.
The society will define appropriate ways to manage and overcome the challenges, which can also include international cooperation and adhering to internationally accepted norms. When the challenge is deemed extraordinary, we need to response appropriately. It is in this context compounded with the challenges of our vast coastline and land borders, the Government of Indonesia is left with no choice but enforcing the existing laws with regard to death penalty.
We strive fully to ensure that due process of law is adhered and that all available avenues are undertaken without prejudice. Furthermore, it applies only to the most serious crimes and as the last resort.
Mr. President,
We witness the increasing trends non-state actors in violating human rights. They resort to violent extremism and terrorism.
We would to underscore that no religion should be associated with violent extremism or terrorism. And concurrently, the response to such heinous acts should not also be associated with any religion. Opinion makers, political leaders, mass media should heed to this principle.
Sadly, the fact sometimes speaks differently on this issue. There are tendency of negative stereotyping of certain religion and its followers.
We need to recalibrate our efforts. We need to do it now and with a loud voice.
In this regard, Indonesia in which diversity is a fact of life continues to promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation in addressing this issue, including its root causes.
Mr. President,
We take note various initiatives in the High Commissioner report. We call for more constructive and thematic focus. We strongly believe that more attention should be paid to economic, social and cultural rights, including right to development.
We note your intention to reshape the OHCHR’s structure. We hope that you continue engaging closely the member states on this. Indeed, countries’ capital will look at their missions here when there are efforts by your office in the country.
Mr. President,
To conclude, Indonesia stands ready to continue our efforts in promoting and protecting human rights. Let us do it through mutual respect, mutual benefit and productive cooperation.
I thank you.
Geneva, 5 March 2015
*) Delivered by Mr. Dicky Komar, Director for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.
