JAKARTA, 18 June 2026 – The Ministry of Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia (MOHR), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), concluded a two-day series of Public Consultations on the Draft Ministerial Regulation on Human Rights Defenders. Held on 17-18 June 2026 in Jakarta, the consultations brought together government institutions, National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs), civil society organizations, and human rights defenders to provide input on the development of a more effective and inclusive protection framework.

Over two days, participants discussed practical measures that could strengthen prevention, protection, and response mechanisms for human rights defenders. Discussions covered a range of issues, including access to protection services, institutional coordination, legal safeguards, psychosocial support, and digital security.

To ensure a comprehensive approach, the consultation was structured around two complementary perspectives. The first day brought together government institutions, law enforcement agencies, and NHRIs to discuss mandates, coordination mechanisms, and implementation considerations. The second day focused on gathering direct input from women human rights defenders, environmental defenders, and civil society organizations, ensuring that the regulation reflects experiences and challenges from the field.

“Protecting Women and Environmental Human Rights Defenders requires regulations that are informed by both institutional perspectives and the lived experiences of those working on the frontlines,” said Siprianus Bate Soro, Head of the Human Development and Responsive Governance Unit at UNDP Indonesia. “Through this consultation process, we are helping to build a shared understanding among stakeholders and supporting the development of practical protection measures that are accessible, responsive, and effective.”

The Ministry of Human Rights underscored the importance of collaboration in developing the regulation.

“As the Ministry of Human Rights, we view the protection of human rights defenders as an important element of strengthening democracy, justice, and sustainable development in Indonesia,” said Sofia Alatas, Acting Director General of Human Rights Instruments and Strengthening at MOHR. “The consultation process allows us to gather diverse perspectives and ensure that the regulation is inclusive, implementable, and responsive to the realities faced by defenders across the country.”

The collaboration between MOHR and UNDP combines national leadership with technical expertise to support the development of a regulation that is both policy-relevant and practical. Through engagement with a broad range of stakeholders, the initiative seeks to strengthen coordination among institutions while promoting meaningful participation from civil society. 

The consultations were conducted under the project “Strengthening Women’s Civil Society and Women Environmental Human Rights Defenders’ Political Participation and Influence for a Just, Green Future.” The initiative is supported by the governments of Denmark, Luxembourg, and the Republic of Korea through the Governance, Peacebuilding, Crisis and Resilience (GCPR) Funding Window. 

Participants included representatives from relevant ministries and government agencies, National Human Rights Institutions, women’s organizations, environmental groups, human rights organizations, and other civil society partners. The programme featured expert presentations, panel discussions, and facilitated group consultations.

Inputs gathered during the two-day consultation will contribute to the refinement and finalization of the Draft Ministerial Regulation. The process marks an important step toward establishing a coordinated and inclusive framework for the protection of human rights defenders in Indonesia, in line with national priorities and international human rights commitments.

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About the Ministry of Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia (MOHR) 

The Ministry of Human Rights is mandated to lead, coordinate, and synchronize the implementation of human rights enforcement and advancement in Indonesia. It serves as a pioneer and catalyst in strengthening the ecosystem of protection for human rights defenders, ensuring that the rule of law and human dignity are upheld across the archipelago.

About UNDP in Indonesia 

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience. In Indonesia, UNDP partners with the government, civil society, and the private sector to advance sustainable development, democratic governance, and the protection of human rights, leaving no one behind.