Strengthening Human Rights Protection in Indonesia: Integrated Legal Reforms, Institutional Empowerment, and Public Participation

Abstract

This article discusses comprehensive strategies to bridge the gap between normative frameworks and the practical implementation of human rights (HR) protection in Indonesia. It emphasizes the need for thorough legal reform, including updating outdated regulations, harmonizing overlapping laws, and revising potentially misused legislation such as the Electronic Information and Transactions Law (Undang-Undang Informasi dan Transaksi Elektronik/UU ITE). Strengthening the judiciary is highlighted as essential, with a focus on enhancing the capacity of judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers while safeguarding judicial independence from political interference. Empowering human rights institutions, particularly by expanding the mandate of the Human Rights (Komisi Nasional Hak Asasi Manusia /Komnas HAM) and revitalizing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, is considered vital to addressing both current and past violations. Furthermore, public empowerment through education and digital participation is encouraged to promote accountability and awareness. Transform human rights protection from rhetoric into tangible realities accessible to all segments of society.