Universitas Brawijaya (UB) hosted a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) held to strengthen coordination and multi-party responses in efforts to protect and advance civil liberties in Malang Raya area. This event is part of the BASIS Program (Building Enabling Environment and Strong Civil Society in Indonesia), an initiative run by the Center for Law and Democracy Development, Faculty of Law UB (PPHD FH UB).
This collaboration involved the Indonesian Human Rights Teachers Union (SEPAHAM) and the Foundation for Strengthening Participation, Initiatives, and Partnerships of the Indonesian Community (YAPPIKA), with full support from the European Union.
Taking place in the 6th Floor Auditorium of Building A, Faculty of Law UB, Friday (21/2/2025), this FGD was attended by various stakeholders, ranging from academics, researchers, local government officials, law enforcement officers, to representatives of civil society organizations. Their presence emphasized the importance of the issue of protecting civil space in the context of Indonesian democracy.
Dr. Muktiono, S.H., M.Phil., Vice Dean Three of FH UB and Chair of SEPAHAM Indonesia, opened the event by emphasizing that the protection of human rights and civil liberties is the main pillar of democracy.
“Without guaranteed civil liberties, it is impossible for us to build a just and inclusive society,” he said.
The discussion session, moderated by experts in the field of law and human rights, was an important moment in this event. Prischa Listiningrum, S.H., LL.M., led the discussion on the right to assemble and organize, while Cekli Setya Pratiwi, S.H., LL.M., M.CL., Ph.D., facilitated the discussion on the right to opinion and expression. The participants actively shared their experiences, views, and challenges they faced in efforts to protect civil rights at the local level.
This FGD is expected to not only raise awareness of the importance of protecting civil space, but also strengthen synergy between stakeholders. Concrete recommendations resulting from this discussion are expected to be the basis for efforts to strengthen civil liberties in Malang Raya.
“this similar cross-sectoral collaboration is very important to create a supportive environment, especially for women, young people, and civil society organizations in facing challenges at the local level,” concluded Dr. Muktiono.
With a strong spirit of collaboration, the hope is to create a more inclusive and equitable civil space, where every individual can express themselves and actively participate in community development. (Ags/Rma/FH PR/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir)
