On May 25, 2026, the Center for Political Studies at the University of Indonesia (PUSKAPOL UI) organized a public discussion titled “28 Years of Reform: Examining Human Rights Enforcement and the Repositioning of Komnas HAM Amidst the Threat of Authoritarianism”. This event featured Amiruddin Al-Rahab (Commissioner of Komnas HAM), Bivitri Susanti (Lecturer at the Indonesia Jentera School of Law and Constitutional Law Expert), and Hurriyah (Executive Director of Puskapol UI and Human Rights Lecturer at the University of Indonesia) as speakers. The discussion was also attended by Dr. phil. Panji Anugrah Permana, S.I.P., M.Si., Chair of the Department of Political Science, FISIP University of Indonesia, as well as students, academics, and members of the general public who participated in the discussion forum.
This discussion served as a space for reflection on Indonesia’s 28-year journey of reform, specifically in revisiting the development of democracy, the enforcement of human rights, and the institutional position of Komnas HAM within a constantly changing constitutional landscape.
In the opening remarks, it was stated that the reform era was a pivotal momentum that brought various agendas for change, including the strengthening of respect, protection, and promotion of human rights. In line with that spirit, this discussion was presented to review both the achievements and the challenges still faced in human rights enforcement in Indonesia.
Several issues emerged throughout the discussion. One was the question of the extent to which reform has succeeded in producing a fairer distribution of power. Although reform is considered successful in building various democratic institutions, post-reform political developments show that democracy still faces challenges in the form of power concentration among elites. Elections, as the primary instrument of democracy, are seen as not yet fully capable of driving fundamental changes in the power structure.
The discussion also highlighted the position of human rights in political practice and governance. On one hand, human rights have become an essential part of Indonesia’s democratic commitment. However, on the other hand, implementation still faces various challenges, including when human rights principles clash with considerations of political stability, development, or the interests of power.
In addition to discussing democratic developments, this forum reflected on the achievements and dynamics of the six demands of the 1998 Reform, ranging from law enforcement, the eradication of corruption, and the implementation of regional autonomy to civil-military relations. The discussion emphasized that while several reform agendas have resulted in significant institutional changes, their implementation still faces various obstacles and challenges in practice.
Special attention was also given to the position of Komnas HAM as an independent institution mandated to promote and protect human rights. The discussion brought forward the view that changes in Indonesia’s political and constitutional configuration have created new challenges for Komnas HAM. The emergence of various new state institutions, changes in inter-institutional relations, and the complexity of human rights issues at national and regional levels demand a strengthening of institutional capacity to ensure it remains capable of carrying out its mandate effectively.
Another challenge discussed was the resolution of various human rights violation cases that remain a matter of public concern. In this context, the discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining the independence of human rights institutions while strengthening public accountability to ensure that public trust in democratic institutions is preserved.
Furthermore, participants were invited to reflect on contemporary democratic challenges, including the rise of increasingly adaptive and legalistic authoritarian practices, digital technology developments affecting the public sphere, and the importance of safeguarding civil liberties as one of the foundations of democracy. In facing these challenges, the strengthening of inclusive institutions, meaningful public participation, and a commitment to democratic and human rights principles were considered increasingly vital aspects.
The discussion was interactive, involving participation from students, academics, and the general public. Through this forum, PUSKAPOL UI provided a space for critical reflection on the achievements and challenges of reform after 28 years, while encouraging broader discussion on the future of democracy, human rights enforcement, and the strengthening of democratic institutions in Indonesia.
