Draft Human Rights Bill: NHRC Recommendations Must Be Binding and Followed Up

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Strengthening the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) is a key focus in the revision of Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights. Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai stated that the enhancements include powers to conduct investigations, summon, prosecute, provide amicus curiae in court, and issue binding recommendations. “I am making it binding and mandatory. All agencies recommended by Komnas HAM must comply as it is final and binding,” Pigai said, citing Antara on Thursday (6 November 2025). “NHRC recommendations must be issued through a plenary session and be binding,” states Article 86(1) of the draft Human Rights Bill revision, cited on Monday (25 May 2026). “NHRC recommendations must be followed up by relevant ministries, agencies, or regional governments,” according to Article 86(2) of the draft revision. “NHRC recommendations concerning economic, social, and cultural rights shall be coordinated by the Minister in their implementation,” per Article 86(3). Article 84(1) of the draft bill outlines 11 powers for Komnas HAM, including: “Komnas HAM shall draft and submit recommendations from studies, monitoring, and/or mediation to ministries, agencies, regional governments, and relevant parties, with a copy to the Minister for follow-up,” as per Article 84(5) of the Human Rights Bill.