Indonesian MFA summons UN representative over criticism of criminal code amendments

12 December 2022



UN Representative to Indonesia Valerie Julliand was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country after criticizing the amendments to the criminal code. This was reported Monday by Reuters, citing the Indonesian foreign ministry.


Last week, the Indonesian parliament unanimously approved amendments to the criminal code. Among other things, they include penalties for extramarital affairs, blasphemy and disrespect for state institutions, and for journalists for publishing messages that could lead to unrest. The UN office in Indonesia soon released a statement expressing concern that "several articles of the updated criminal code are incompatible with Indonesia's international commitments to human rights and freedoms."


The Indonesian MFA summoned Julliand on Monday, and the agency asked the UN office to consult with authorities before making comments. "They should have come [to the ministry] to consult, as other international representatives have done. We hope they will take their time to make their point," a foreign ministry representative said.


Also on Monday, Bali Governor Wayan Koster commented on the criminal code amendments. According to him, those who "visit Bali or live here do not need to worry." He stressed that prosecution for extramarital affairs is only possible if there is a complaint from a close relative. He also assured that tourists will not be asked for documents to prove their marital status.

 

 

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Photo: Amelia Guo/Creative Commons 3.0

Based on materials from TASS