Indonesia Poised to Lead UN Human Rights Council in 2026 as Sole Asia-Pacific Candidate

Indonesia Nominated for UN Human Rights Council Presidency

Indonesia has been nominated as the sole candidate by the Asia-Pacific Group for the 2026 presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). This significant development positions Indonesia to lead the global human rights body for the first time. The formal endorsement of this nomination is anticipated to occur at the UNHRC meeting on January 8, 2026.

The Path to Presidency and Regional Rotation

The UN Human Rights Council operates on a system where its presidency rotates annually among member states, with each year representing a different regional group. For 2026, it is the turn of the Asia-Pacific Group to hold the presidency, marking the council's 20th cycle. Indonesia's nomination as the sole candidate from this influential regional bloc underscores the confidence placed in its leadership by its regional peers. Indonesia is currently serving its sixth term as a member of the UNHRC, with its current tenure running from 2024 to 2026. If confirmed, Ambassador Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, Indonesia's Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, is designated to assume the role of president.

Responsibilities of the UNHRC President

The President of the UN Human Rights Council serves a one-year term and plays a crucial role in guiding the council's work. Key responsibilities include:

• Chairing meetings of the Council.
• Proposing candidates for Special Procedures mandates and expert mechanisms.
• Appointing experts to serve on investigative bodies.
• Receiving and responding to correspondence from Permanent Missions and other actors.
• Building awareness and trust in the Human Rights Council through outreach and diplomacy.

The role demands strict neutrality to ensure that the Council's activities are conducted in a respectful and constructive manner.

Indonesia's Stance and Context

Indonesia's nomination is attributed to its status as an independent developing economy not formally aligned with any major power bloc, and its established track record as a 'bridge builder' on sensitive human rights issues. Foreign Minister Sugiono expressed appreciation for the Asia-Pacific Group's trust, stating that 'Indonesia will do its best in this role as we push for dialogue and cooperation. We will work with all members to advance and safeguard human rights for all.' The Indonesian government has pledged to lead the council's sessions and processes throughout 2026 in an 'objective, inclusive, and balanced manner.'

As context, Indonesia's human rights record has been subject to scrutiny, with the SETARA Institute reporting that Indonesia scored 3 on a 1-7 scale on the 2025 Human Rights Index, where seven indicates the highest level of protection. Issues such as those in Papua and impunity for past violations have been noted by the UN Human Rights Committee.

Looking Ahead

Indonesia's upcoming presidency coincides with the 20th anniversary of the UN Human Rights Council, providing a strategic opportunity to promote a more inclusive, constructive, and dialogue-oriented international human rights framework. This leadership position is expected to strengthen Indonesia's human rights diplomacy profile and affirm its growing role on the international stage.