New History! Indonesia Leads the 61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva
JAKARTA - Indonesia is preparing to make history in the international diplomatic arena. Starting next week, precisely from February 23 to March 31, 2026, Indonesia will lead the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland.
This momentum is the first time Indonesia has held the leadership since the body was formed in 2006. This historic event also coincides with the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the UN Human Rights Council.
Main Agenda and Presence of World Figures
The session will be opened with a high-level segment (High-Level Segment) on 23-25 February 2026. Based on information from the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Indonesia (PTRI) in Geneva, several important points in the opening of the session include:
National Statement: Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono is scheduled to deliver a national statement on the first day. Indonesian leadership: Ambassador Sidharto R. Suryodipuro, Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations in Geneva who served as President of the Human Rights Council, will directly lead the proceedings. The presence of the Head of State: More than 100 high-ranking officials have been confirmed, including the President of Timor Leste Jose Ramos-Horta and the President of Colombia Gustavo Petro."Presidency for All" Theme in the Midst of Global Challenges
Under the leadership of Indonesia, the UN Human Rights Council carries the theme "Presidency for All". This theme reflects Indonesia's commitment to maintaining inclusiveness and bridging differences through constructive dialogue, especially amid rising global geopolitical tensions.
"Indonesia is committed to ensuring an inclusive dialogue space and strengthening cooperation as the main foundation for human rights protection for all," read a PTRI Geneva official statement, Friday (20/2).
Focus Issue: Children's Rights to Global Crisis
One of the interesting points in this presidency is Indonesia's effort to promote children's access to nutritious food. This issue is in line with President Prabowo Subianto's domestic agenda regarding the fulfillment of food rights as a strategic investment in human capital.
Some thematic and regional issues to be discussed include:
Thematic issues: Prevention of female circumcision, promotion of a culture of peace, the rights of people with disabilities, and financing sustainable development. Regional crises: developments in the human rights situation in Palestine, Afghanistan, and Sudan. Technical cooperation: capacity building of partner countries such as Ukraine, Haiti, and the Central African Republic.Although the current UN ecosystem is facing financial challenges and global tensions, Indonesia is optimistic that it can carry out its mandate firmly. This leadership is expected to strengthen Indonesia's position as a key player in the implementation of international human rights on an equal footing.