Indonesia begins its term as President of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for 2026 on January 8, 2026. Indonesia's Permanent Representative in Geneva, Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, affirmed the commitment to uphold integrity, objectivity, and credibility in fulfilling the mandate. Indonesia pledges to collaborate with all stakeholders to advance human rights inclusively.
Indonesia officially commenced its presidency of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on January 8, 2026, with Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro at the helm. The appointment comes with a strong commitment to principles of universality, objectivity, and non-selectivity in addressing human rights issues, including the right to development.
In an organizational meeting of the UNHRC, Sidharto stated, "We believe and are fully committed, like all Human Rights Council members, to the principles of universality, objectivity, and non-selectivity in dealing with human rights issues, and to treating all human rights—including the right to development—fairly and equally."
This decision is rooted in Indonesia's 1945 Constitution, aligned with the UN Charter, and reaffirmed by President Prabowo Subianto, who emphasized defending the multilateral order for global peace and prosperity. Indonesia was elected as the sole candidate from the Asia-Pacific region, reflecting its long diplomatic track record.
Indah Nuria Savitri, Director of Human Rights and Migration at Indonesia's Foreign Ministry, noted that the mandate is prestigious amid high geopolitical dynamics. Indonesia will approach the presidency inclusively, communicating with member states, observers, UN bodies, national human rights institutions, and civil society.
Regarding recent issues like the US attack on Venezuela and the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro, Indah explained the UNHRC's focus is on Venezuela's internal human rights situation, not direct responses to external developments. "The latest dynamics are outside the mechanisms agreed upon by the Human Rights Council," she said. No request for a special session has been made, so the agenda follows prior plans.
Sidharto also appreciated the previous president, Jorg Loeber, and vowed to continue efficiency initiatives, fostering a respectful and inclusive space with promotion of gender equality and participation of developing and Pacific island nations.
