Fachrul Sidiq, Jakarta – Regional administrations are the most frequent abusers when it comes to violations against religious freedom, a report released by the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has revealed.
According to the report, of the 97 complaints submitted to the rights body, regional governments have been reported 52 times, more than those filed against mass organizations (13) and groups not affiliated with any organization (12). The report also revealed a significant increase compared to last year, when regional administrations were reported to have violated religious freedom 36 times.
"This finding is very concerning because administrations are supposed to protect their citizens. This fact poses a serious threat to freedoms and rights, particularly on the regional levels," Komnas HAM's faith freedom desk coordinator Jayadi Damanik said at the organization's office in Jakarta on Tuesday.
He added that some officials in the governments were still ignorant about the importance of protecting religious freedom and were often influenced by intolerant majorities in their respective areas.
"According to our study, in six areas in West Java the three main factors fueling the violations are the low level of understanding of government officials about human rights principles, the inability of regional leaders to deal with intolerant groups and the implementation of regional laws that often contradict higher laws," Jayadi said, without revealing the names of the cities.
The report showed that West Java was the most intolerant province in the country, with 21 violations occurring throughout 2016. (dmr)