Human Lives Human Rights: The Indonesian National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has expressed serious concern over alleged human rights violations associated with major infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new capital city. The commission has documented at least 1,675 cases of human rights abuses during the past three years, largely stemming from land disputes, environmental damage, and the displacement of local communities.
According to Komnas HAM, at least 535 cases of rights violations have occurred in the new capital city, Nusantara, and several national strategic projects between 2022 and 2024. The commission has formed an integrated team to handle human rights cases in the new capital.
The report highlights rights violations in national strategic projects, including Air Bangis in West Sumatra, Rempang Eco City in the Riau Islands, and the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway Project. The commission also criticized the government’s nickel downstream program, which removed human rights and environmental regulations around the industry.
Indonesia’s Deputy in Charge of Human Rights at the Presidential Staff Office, Rumadi Ahmad, has announced that the government will investigate Komnas HAM’s report to determine if it is based on legitimate rights violations or merely public complaints.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Audit Board (BPK) has reported concerns regarding the Nusantara project, including inadequate preparation for development and land procurement issues. A coalition of civil society members and organizations in East Kalimantan has criticized the New Capital City Authority for forcing residents to demolish their homes without adequate compensation.
The President’s strategic projects aim to promote economic growth and equitable welfare, but critics argue that they prioritize investment over human rights. The development of infrastructure projects should include a focus on human rights, as they have the potential to change the landscape and displace people.
Human Rights Impacts:
- At least 1,675 cases of human rights abuses documented during the past three years
- 535 cases of rights violations in Nusantara and several national strategic projects between 2022 and 2024
- Land disputes, environmental damage, and displacement of local communities are major concerns
- Human rights violations against the right to welfare, right to justice, and arbitrary actions by authorities
- Inadequate preparation for development and land procurement issues in Nusantara project
- Concerns over forced eviction of residents without adequate compensation
Call to Action
- The Indonesian government should prioritize human rights and environmental protection in its infrastructure projects
- Civil society organizations should continue to monitor and report on human rights violations related to these projects
- International organizations should urge the Indonesian government to take concrete steps to protect human rights and ensure accountability for any abuses.
