Human Rights Minister Encourages Pancasila-Based Human Rights Development

Jakarta - Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai is encouraging human rights development in Indonesia to be based on the values of Pancasila and to guarantee respect for every individual without discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, race, culture, or other identities. Pigai said human rights development is not only related to the protection of citizens’ basic rights, but also requires the involvement of the younger generation as agents of change through strengthening their capacity in knowledge, skills, and attitude. “To be an impactful example, the younger generation and all elements of the nation must master three main pillars, namely knowledge, skills, and attitude. Show your true identity with the objective capacity and abilities you possess,” Pigai said in a statement in Jakarta on Friday. During the 2026 Human Rights Festival at Satya Wacana Christian University (UKSW) in Salatiga, Central Java, on Thursday, Pigai explained that the concept of human rights continues to evolve with the times. Besides encompassing civil and political rights as well as economic, social, and cultural rights, human rights development now also includes the right to development and a sustainable environment. According to him, a human rights-based approach to development needs to be part of efforts to strengthen social justice and ensure that all community groups obtain equal opportunities in development. Pigai also appreciated the organisation of the Human Rights Festival, which he considered a public education space to improve the community’s understanding of human rights values and their application in national and state life. Meanwhile, UKSW Rector Intiyas Utami said the theme “Human Rights Development in the Spirit of Pancasila” aligns with the campus’s commitment to maintaining diversity, equality, and respect for human dignity. “The holding of the Human Rights Festival with this theme is one of the important milestones in the journey of our campus, which is now 70 years old. Since its inception, UKSW has consistently voiced and upheld human rights as a manifestation of the noble values of Pancasila,” said Intiyas. She added that UKSW will continue to develop an academic environment that respects diversity while shaping a young generation that is not only academically excellent but also socially sensitive. The 2026 Human Rights Festival also featured scientific discussions, legal and human rights education, as well as strengthening collaboration between the Ministry of Human Rights and universities in promoting inclusive development based on respect for human rights.