Komnas HAM Member Amirudd Discusses Preparedness to Tackle New Challenges

Komnas HAM member Amirudd stated that his institution is preparing to tackle new challenges, emphasising the need for Komnas HAM to evolve. He made these remarks during a public discussion titled ‘28 Years of Reform Tested: Assessing Human Rights Enforcement and the Role of Komnas HAM Amid Authoritarian Threats?’ at the Mochtar Riyadi Auditorium, FISIP UI, Depok, on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

Amirudd highlighted that Indonesia’s human rights enforcement face increasingly complex challenges after 28 years of reform, raising critical questions about Komnas HAM’s relevance. He noted that the institution’s institutional framework appears increasingly weak amid current socio-political conditions, with constitutional changes, an un responsive posture, and diminishing space for civil liberties posing significant hurdles.

‘Komnas HAM is caught between the state and civil society. This tension demands its independence,’ Amir stated.

He then addressed the four aspects of independence: institutional, personnel, operational, and financial. ‘Komnas HAM lacks all four,’ he said. ‘When we discuss Komnas HAM’s independence, these four elements form the minimum standard. Komnas HAM should surpass this, but even the basics are not met,’ he said.

Amir stressed that the revised Human Rights Law should maximise Komnas HAM’s role in protecting and promoting human rights, with a stronger institutional framework to support its functions. He also emphasised the importance of robust recruitment processes for Komnas HAM members, ensuring they have sufficient capacity and are supported by skilled staff. Additionally, adequate funding to carry out operations across all 38 provinces is required.