Amnesty International reports that Indonesia sentenced 48 individuals to death last year, with 15 being foreigners primarily for drug offenses. The country has not executed anyone for two years, yet maintains a significant number of convicts on death row. Criticism mounts against Indonesia’s inconsistent human rights stance, especially as regional neighbors initiate reforms. Legislative progress toward abolition is slow, prompting calls for action from both human rights advocates and lawmakers.
Amnesty International’s latest report highlights that Indonesia issued death sentences to 48 individuals in the previous year, which included 15 foreigners primarily convicted for drug offenses. Of this total, 39 sentences were linked to drug-related crimes, eight for murder, and one for terrorism. Although Indonesia previously executed 18 individuals for drug offenses during 2015 to 2016, it has observed a moratorium on executions for the past two years. Presently, a significant number of convicts, totaling at least 308, remain on death row. Despite its claims of being a human rights leader in Southeast Asia, Indonesia has faced criticism for retaining the death penalty, particularly from activists frustrated by the lack of any formal steps to abolish it. Usman Hamid, the executive director of Amnesty International Indonesia, noted, “As a pioneer of human rights in Southeast Asia, Indonesia actually has a wider chance to progress from the moratorium [to abolition].” Amidst a global decline in executions—dropping by 31% from 2017 to 2018—Indonesia stands apart from countries like Malaysia and Burkina Faso, which are moving towards reforms or abolitions of capital punishment. Lawmaker Charles Honoris acknowledged that capital punishment is ineffective at deterring crime, especially in drug-related cases but stated that the decision to abolish it lies with the government and the president. Despite softening its stance by classifying capital punishment as an alternative to life imprisonment, progress on this issue remains slow.
The topic of capital punishment in Indonesia has gained increased attention amidst ongoing debates about human rights and legal reform. Amnesty International’s annual reports provide insight into Indonesia’s use of the death penalty, particularly in relation to drug offenses. The country has garnered criticism for maintaining capital punishment while trying to position itself as a leader in human rights within Southeast Asia. Recent political dynamics suggest a potential shift towards reform; however, the current government has yet to take conclusive actions towards abolition or significant changes in legislation. This backdrop leads to discussions on Indonesia’s international standing and its obligations to both its citizens and the global community regarding human rights protections.
In summary, Indonesia’s continued imposition of the death penalty—despite a significant moratorium on executions and rising international pressure—contradicts its position as a human rights advocate in Southeast Asia. With 48 death sentences recorded, including a notable number for drug offenses, criticism from human rights organizations like Amnesty International emphasizes the urgent need for legal reform. Legislative efforts appear stagnant, indicating a crucial moment for Indonesia to reassess its approach to capital punishment in alignment with global trends toward abolition and reform.
Original Source: www.thejakartapost.com
