This parallel discussion centred on the
topic of the experiences of human rights cities of other countries, was held on Wednesday, 14 November 2018, during the Human Rights Festival 2018 in Wonosobo District, Central Java.
The panel
of experts included Professor Syn, director of Gwanju International Centre;
Faisal, director of Asia Democratic Networks; Aditya, representative of the
Directorate of the International Organization of Foreign Affairs; Beka Ulung
Hapsara, commissioner of Komnas HAM; and Eko Setiono, expert staff of the
Government of Wonosobo.
Discussion began by an introduction by
Professor Syn, who elaborated on the human rights situation in South Korea.
According to Professor Syn, acts of intolerance and discrimination are almost
non-existent in Gwanju. "South Korea has rigorously investigated alleged
violations of human rights since 1980, promotes democratic participation in the
World Human Rights Cities Forum (WHRCF)," Professor Syn said.
Faisal added that in order for
countries to improve access to human rights, respective governments must be
willing to improve its communication with international Non-Government
Organizations, be open to participating in a democratic discussion on human
rights, and improve dissemination of information for its citizens. The latter
contributes to the strengthening of public participation and allows citizens to
make informed decisions.
Within the same token, Aditya suggested that
governments must be willing to include citizens in its endeavours regarding the
implementation of Sustainable Development Goals with organizations such as the
United Nations.
Commissioner Beka of Komnas HAM commended
on Indonesia’s improvement with regards to human rights as compared to five years
ago. Beka added that regions in Indonesia have progressively taken human rights
based approach to policy making and that he hopes to see increasing
participation in the WHRCF from other regions of Indonesia.
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