Indonesia Balances Human Rights Commitments with Gaza Reconstruction Role

Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s decision to join the US-led Board of Peace for Gaza reconstruction has sparked debate, prompting calls for Indonesia to leverage its position to prioritize Palestinian human rights and uphold international law. While Indonesia has a long-standing commitment to the Palestinian cause, its participation in a board led by former US President Donald Trump and its structure, raise concerns about potential compromises on core principles.

Indonesia’s Historical Support for Palestine

Indonesia has consistently supported the rights of Palestinians since 1955, when President Sukarno declined to invite Israel to the Bandung Conference, demonstrating solidarity with Palestinian self-determination. This commitment continued in 2023 when Indonesia submitted a report to the International Court of Justice, concluding that Israel’s policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territory amounted to apartheid . Indonesia condemned the atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in over 72,000 Palestinian deaths according to the Gaza health ministry, and 1,200 Israeli and foreign nationals killed .

Joining the Board of Peace: A Complex Decision

President Prabowo participated in the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, D.C., on February 19, 2025, with a stated aim of supporting Gaza’s reconstruction. Indonesia has committed to sending 8,000 troops to Gaza . Prabowo defended the decision, stating it was an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to humanity, citing the Trump administration’s role in brokering a “ceasefire agreement” and the return of hostages. However, the decision has faced criticism from within Indonesia, with concerns raised about the board’s lack of focus on human rights and accountability.

Concerns Regarding the Board’s Structure and Priorities

Human Rights Watch has highlighted significant concerns regarding the Board of Peace, noting that its charter does not mention human rights or accountability . Critics point to the board’s composition, which includes countries with questionable human rights records, and the fact that the “Gaza Executive Board” lacks Palestinian representation. Former President Trump’s appointment as chair for life, with veto power, raises fears that the board will sideline existing multilateral mechanisms, particularly the United Nations Security Council. Trump has also requested a US$1 billion fee for permanent membership .

Indonesia’s ‘Bebas Aktif’ Foreign Policy and BRICS Membership

Indonesia’s foreign policy, guided by the principle of ‘Bebas Aktif’ (independent and active), emphasizes maintaining strong relationships with major global powers, including the United States, Russia, and China. Indonesia has actively pursued economic agreements with India, Japan, and others, and formally joined BRICS in January 2025, seeking to strengthen political and diplomatic coordination among countries of the Global South . This approach underscores Indonesia’s ambition to play a leading role on the world stage.

Recommendations for Indonesia

To reconcile its commitment to human rights with its participation in the Board of Peace, Indonesia should clearly communicate to the Trump administration that its involvement is specifically focused on Gaza’s reconstruction and does not endorse the board’s broader ambitions to undermine the UN’s role. Indonesia should advocate for the board to operate in a supporting role to the UN, particularly regarding humanitarian assistance. Indonesia should collaborate with other rights-respecting governments to collectively promote human rights in Gaza, globally, and domestically .

Indonesia’s leadership can be most effective when it upholds international humanitarian and human rights law. By prioritizing these principles, Indonesia can navigate complex geopolitical challenges and contribute to a more just and peaceful world.