Pigai made the statement after meeting with the representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Indonesia, Francis Teoh, at the Ministry of Human Rights office here on Wednesday.
“Anyone, whether an Indonesian citizen or a foreign national, who is within the NKRI, falls under the state’s duty and responsibility. The state must ensure protection for its citizens and for anyone living within the territory,” he remarked.
Minister Pigai emphasized that the state must respect and remain committed to improving the lives of all individuals in Indonesia. The government should also help meet the needs of both domestic and international refugees, including asylum seekers, he added.
He explained that displacement can result from various causes, such as forced evictions, natural disasters, social conflict, and land development activities.
Related news: Four foreigners identified as suspects in Rohingya smuggling into Aceh
“All of these issues are concerns of the Ministry of Human Rights, while the UNHCR focuses on handling cross-border refugees, including stateless persons,” he remarked.
Earlier, Minister Pigai also underlined the ministry’s commitment to handling refugee issues, especially for victims of conflicts in Papua, to ensure the fulfillment of civilians’ rights to recovery and resettlement.
Speaking at a press conference after listening to the aspirations of Papuan students at the ministry’s office on Tuesday (June 3), Pigai stated that this commitment was not merely a promise, noting that his ministry has been actively visiting refugee areas in Papua.
“Refugee management is one of our main concerns, and we have been coordinating with ministries and agencies to support resettlement and recovery efforts,” he remarked.
Related news: Minister Gunawan keen to help resolve Rohingya crisis
Translator: Fath, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
