Rohingya Refugee Crisis Unfolds in Indonesia, Prompting Social and Humanitarian Concerns

Since the arrival of Rohingya refugees on November 14, 2023, Indonesia has seen an influx of over 1,000 individuals from Cox's Bazar refugee camp in Bangladesh. The citizens of Bireuen, Aceh, have expressed resistance to their arrival due to social tensions that have escalated since the first illegal entry of Rohingya migrants into Aceh. Initially welcomed on humanitarian and religious grounds, the reception has turned into vocal opposition.

Rohingya individuals initially received assistance and were placed in the homes of local residents, community houses, and temporary shelters. However, social issues began to arise gradually. The surrounding community reported unpleasant behavior, including theft, catcalling, and other disturbing actions by Rohingya individuals.

The refugee wave continues to rise, with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) noting over 1,000 Rohingya refugees in Indonesia from 2015 to 2022. The recent surge adds to the complexities of the situation. Public debate has intensified regarding the appropriate handling of Rohingya migrants. From a humanitarian perspective, there is an inclination to support the Rohingya, considering their displacement from Myanmar due to extraordinary persecution.

However, the potential impact of accepting Rohingya migrants cannot be overlooked. Adequate space and resources are essential for hosting foreign refugees. Reflecting on the overcrowded conditions in Cox's Bazar camp, Indonesia must reconsider its approach to foreign refugee management to avoid similar challenges. Additionally, the financial burden of supporting the refugees requires deeper consideration. Currently, the UNHCR and the International Organization of Migration (IOM) serve as the main donors for the Rohingya refugees in Indonesia, but the monthly funds provided are insufficient for daily sustenance. Other contributions come from donations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Addressing social issues is equally crucial, requiring risk management strategies to prevent conflicts between the native population and foreign refugees.

The main driver behind Aceh residents' rejection of Rohingya refugees lies in concerns over their behavior, including theft, violation of Aceh's regulations, and other disruptive activities. One contributing factor to the November influx is the perception among Rohingya refugees that Indonesia is one of the best countries for seeking asylum, prompting them to leave Cox's Bazar in search of a better life.

It is crucial to note that Indonesia is not obligated to accept foreign refugees, having neither signed nor ratified the 1951 Convention, which mandates signatory nations to shelter and provide a decent livelihood for refugees. In contrast, Turkey, a Convention member, has accommodated over two million refugees and granted access to education and healthcare, although social tensions with Syrian refugees have emerged.

Indonesia faces a dilemma: accepting more Rohingya refugees comes with high risks due to local opposition, while UNHCR Indonesia advocates for their acceptance. The inadequacy of existing refugee facilities and insufficient preparedness further complicates the situation. As of now, rejected refugees remain on the shores of Bireuen, Aceh, refusing to return despite local aid provisions.

Deep Coordination Needed Among Institutions

Presidential Regulation 125 of 2016 serves as a specific reference for handling foreign refugees, emphasizing coordination between UNHCR, IOM, NGOs, local governments, and the central government. However, shortcomings persist. In 2021, over 100 Rohingya refugees reportedly escaped from Aceh's shelters, aiming to sail to Malaysia and Australia, their original destinations.

Lack of coordination in providing food, shelter, healthcare, sanitation, and educational activities leaves Rohingya refugees questioning their future in Indonesia. On the other hand, the resettlement process is slow, resulting in more refugees entering than finding new homes.

Indonesia cannot repatriate Rohingya refugees to Myanmar due to the principle of non-refoulement, a high standard in international politics preventing the return of refugees to their home countries if facing persecution, cruelty, or death.

The Role of ASEAN

In international relations and human rights studies, the concept of sharing responsibility emerges as a compelling idea. It underscores the need for cooperation between host countries and other parties to alleviate the burdens on refugee-receiving nations.

As a regional organization in Southeast Asia, ASEAN possesses the potential to address the Rohingya refugee crisis through the ASEAN Inter-Governmental Commission of Human Rights (AICHR) and The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre). Collaboration with NGOs and civil society organizations is vital for on-the-ground implementation. Accelerating the resettlement process is equally important, ensuring Rohingya refugees in Indonesia find new homes and citizenship elsewhere, preventing overpopulation in transit countries.

However, the Rohingya refugee issue will persist unless the root causes are addressed. Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar's Rakhine State have faced persecution since 1982, stemming from a new citizenship law recognizing only 135 ethnic groups as part of Myanmar. Those existing before Myanmar's independence are not included, leaving Rohingya without the right to reside in Myanmar. Subsequently, persecution, murder, rape, and other atrocities have forced Rohingya to seek refuge in various countries, including Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia.