Our rights commission

The lack of recognition that has up to now been accorded the National Commission on Human Rights reflects a serious problem. Thursday's regular bimonthly meeting with the Office of the Coordinating Minister for Political Affairs and Security showed that the government does not take the Commission's recommendations very seriously.

We are happy to see that the Commission has become increasingly vocal in reporting the situation as it prevails in society, particularly where the observation of human rights is concerned. Also, the response that has been given to its recommendations, limited as they may still be, has of late shown an encouraging trend.

Still, the limited number of recommendations that have been followed through so far is an indication of the manner in which we have been treating the National Commission on Human Rights. Its growing popularity has given rise to excessive expectations in certain segments of our society and the House of Representatives and the judiciary, the police included, might well feel that they are being rivaled in their role. For those seeking justice, the National Commission on Human Rights is still a more friendly helper to turn to than, for instance, the police.

The public at present tends to misinterpret the commission's place in the community. It is seen more as a friendly confidant to whom to air complaints. Unconsciously, people have come to see the commission as a policeman in civilian clothes. Fortunately, (commission chairman) Munawir Sjadzali realizes that the institution which he leads must function more as an agent of enlightenment.

Sooner or later, it must become a true champion of human rights. To achieve that goal, it must possess greater authority and determination. Only through authority and determination can the commission hope to be heeded by the government.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta