Shaping Justice: Seminar on Strengthening Access to Justice Amid Indonesia’s KUHP Revisions

The recent revisions to the Indonesian Penal Code (KUHP) have sparked discussions about personal freedoms and civil liberties in the country. The key provisions address adultery and stricter regulations on religious defamation. Concerns have been raised about the ambiguity of some legal language, which could lead to enforcement challenges and potential human rights implications, particularly for marginalized groups.

On September 5, our Law and Justice program partnered with ASPERHUPIKI and the University of Brawijaya Center for Criminal Justice Research to host the seminar “The Urgency of Strengthening Access to Justice in the Context of Supporting the Conduct of National KUHP.” This event represents a pivotal moment in Indonesia’s legal reform process as it revises its Criminal Procedure Code following the new national criminal code.

Key Highlights of the Seminar:

• Advancing Legal Reform: Provided a platform for discussion around aligning new laws with human rights standards.
• Collaborative Discussions: Facilitated conversations among legal experts, educators, and policymakers about challenges and opportunities in legal reform.
• Education and Training: Discussed equipping legal professionals with skills necessary to promote justice and uphold human rights.

Impact of the Seminar:

• Strengthening Law Instructors’ Capacity to Anticipate the Implementation of the new national criminal code : Fachrizal Afandi underscored the role of law educators in molding effective justice practitioners.
• Regarding Prison Overcrowding: Vice Attorney General Fery Wibisono emphasized the need for clearer regulations in Indonesia’s Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) to facilitate speedy trials for less serious crimes, aiming to alleviate prison overcrowding.
• Ongoing Commitment: Hana Satriyo, country representative in Indonesia, reaffirmed our dedication and support to advocates fighting for the rights of vulnerable groups.

By fostering these discussions and training, the seminar will strengthen the criminal justice system in Indonesia and ensure it upholds human rights and improves access to justice.