ASEAN Should Learn From European Union, In Term Of The Protection Of Refugee

In this point, ASEAN should follow EU example in protecting the refugees. Until now, EU have tried to save thousands of lives, by Search and Rescue (SAR) operations and bringing this issue to EC. This reaction has shown their commitment, in saving those refugees.

The idealist way that ASEAN should do in this point is dividing the responsibility among each member states in dealing with the Rohingya. The other countries, except Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand should contribute something in solving the case, for instance by giving more funds, place for the Rohingya –as Indonesia do to live or (SAR) operation, etc. Despite how small contribution that all ASEAN member countries can do, at least it can give positive image on how ASEAN concern with this issue.

If ASEAN cannot deal with this case, it is hardly to be believed that ASEAN can deal with other case with the spirit of unity.

 

What Indonesia can do?

Basically, Indonesia has shown a very good response in dealing with the Rohingya. Indonesia is one of the most initiative countries that try to give some fund and place to save them. It can be argued that Indonesia has a similar role with Germany in voicing the need to save those refugees.

Indonesia should remain in this position, when it will bring Indonesia as a big brother and promoter of the protection of human rights in the region. Despite all human rights violations that occur in the past have not been solved, Indonesia should try to show their image as a defender of human rights. In reaching this point, Indonesia should give more effort in remedying the human rights violations in their own country, in order to prevent other countries are pointing their hand to Indonesia.

If Indonesia can do this, it will help them to increase their capability to encourage other country in dealing with human right violations case.

What Indonesia can really do is becoming an initiator now, when the problem of human rights rise. If Indonesia can consistently do this role, Indonesia can become an example among countries in the region to promote the value of the protection of human rights in the vast difference of political systems in the region.

The writer is the President and Founder of Indonesia Berbicara. Check http://www.indonesiabicara.weebly.com/ to know more about Indonesia Berbicara.