Indonesia Set to Lead UN Rights Council with Venezuela in Focus

By Haifa Chairunisa

Indonesia is set to make history by assuming the presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in 2026, Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai said on Tuesday.

Speaking at the Ministry of Human Rights office in Jakarta, Pigai noted that the role marks Indonesia’s first time leading a global multilateral institution since gaining independence nearly eight decades ago. He added that Indonesia would take an active role in addressing international human rights issues, including the escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela.

“Indonesia will be the one handling the Venezuela issue,” Pigai said.

Indonesia was previously endorsed by member states of the Asia-Pacific Group (APG) to be nominated as UNHRC president for 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the nomination reflects strong regional confidence in Indonesia’s leadership and its commitment to advancing human rights at the global level.

The formal decision on the presidency is scheduled to be made at the UN Human Rights Council meeting on January 8, 2026. If confirmed, the position will be held by Indonesia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro.

As president, Indonesia will chair UNHRC proceedings throughout 2026, with a mandate to ensure an objective, inclusive, and balanced approach. Indonesia is currently serving as a member of the council for the 2024–2026 term, and under the regional rotation system, the Asia-Pacific Group is designated to hold the presidency during the council’s 20th cycle next year.