The recurring Rohingya refugee crisis is a conundrum bound by international norms and laws, with the refugee convention standing as a binding regulation for countries that have ratified it, necessitating the acceptance of refugees.
Although Indonesia hasn’t ratified this convention, its commitment to various human rights agreements, including those against torture, places a quasi-obligation on the nation to shelter Rohingya refugees.
Dr. Dafri Agussalim, Executive Director of the ASEAN Studies Center at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), underlines Indonesia’s quandary in welcoming Rohingya refugees, fearing potential economic burdens.
While acknowledging ethical and moral obligations, Indonesia’s membership in ASEAN adds to the complexity of intertwining moral, legal, and regional responsibilities.
“The dilemma involves potential economic burdens such as funding for food, shelter, and the likelihood of social tensions emerging due to clashes in moral values and behavior between refugees and the local community,” explained Dr. Agussalim on Friday (Dec. 22).
Given the financial constraints, Indonesia may be unable to fulfill land requests similar to Malaysia’s approach.
However, Dr. Agussalim suggests short-term policies, such as providing temporary shelters and a robust diplomatic engagement to secure UNHCR assistance and garner support from other UN member states.
Diplomacy efforts must extend beyond financial aid; Indonesia should advocate for the refugees’ ultimate destinations and seek cooperation from ASEAN nations with disparate views on the Rohingya crisis.
“To reinforce regional solidarity, aligning with the principles of the Bangkok Declaration to maintain security in Southeast Asia, ASEAN member countries should participate by finding shelter, not necessarily in Indonesia, but in member countries that can provide funding and accommodation,” he proposed.
The Rohingya issue demands a two-fold perspective: first, addressing the root causes propelling their flight, tied to domestic conflicts, the Myanmar government’s non-recognition of the Rohingya ethnic group, and threats of violence and famine.
Persistent diplomacy from ASEAN members remains pivotal in navigating this complex situation.
Secondly, analyzing why Rohingya refugees perceive Indonesia as a haven involves considering Indonesia’s perceived weak security system, religious commonality, and potentially more accessible job prospects.
He also emphasizes the role of middle actors or brokers, as seen in previous refugee crises, underscoring the need to deal with such intermediaries.
“We need to convey to the Indonesian people that we indeed have a humanitarian obligation towards the Rohingya refugees. The challenge lies in finding ways to welcome them without causing harm to our community,” Dr. Agussalim opined.
“Indonesia must engage in rigorous efforts to garner global support, starting with countries that are members of the UN and prioritize refugee issues. Collaborating with UNHCR is crucial in obtaining financial assistance to establish temporary shelters, reminiscent of our approach with Vietnamese refugees on Galang Island.”
“The practical implementation of this initiative hinges on securing funding from international institutions. Diplomacy is pivotal in ensuring their acceptance in ultimate destinations like Australia, Canada, etc., with the assurance that Indonesia isn’t the sole destination.”
Author: Rifai