As French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for an official visit to Indonesia, he will hold key diplomatic meetings with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta and at the culturally significant Borobudur temple in Central Java. The agenda focuses on strengthening various strategic partnerships between France and Indonesia, particularly in renewable energy transition, military ties and the digital economy.
Military relations between the two nations have deepened notably in recent years. A comprehensive Defense Cooperation Agreement illustrates this, alongside Indonesia’s sizable investment in French military technology, making it France’s second-largest military equipment buyer in Asia after India. This includes Indonesia acquiring 42 French Rafale fighter jets and two Scorpene-class attack submarines, highlighting a strong commitment to defense collaboration.
However, while these strategic discussions point to a thriving bilateral relationship, it remains crucial not to overlook human rights issues. Macron’s dialogue with Prabowo should address serious human rights concerns. Prabowo’s record includes allegations of severe human rights abuses. The United Nations Special Prosecutor’s Office implicated him in commanding forces behind the 1983 massacre of up to 200 people in East Timor. Although summoned, Prabowo avoided prosecution, and his military career ended in 1998 when he was dismissed for ordering the abduction of student activists, 13 of whom are still missing.
Since taking office as president in 2024, Prabowo has displayed a tendency to reintroduce military influence into civilian government. This trend echoes an era of military dominance often associated with human rights abuses and impunity. Recent amendments to the National Armed Forces law now allow active-duty military personnel to serve in various civilian posts, including in the judiciary and state-owned enterprises, raising concerns about eroding civilian oversight.
Environmental protections are also at risk under the current administration. The government appears to be loosening regulations, potentially paving the way for increased deforestation and mining that could displace Indigenous communities. One high-profile plan involves developing a large agricultural estate in South Papua, posing serious challenges for local populations.
Additionally, Indonesia is grappling with a shrinking space for independent media and human rights defenders. Reports indicate mounting intimidation and harassment of journalists and activists. Ongoing violence in West Papua further reflects deeper human rights issues that must be addressed.
According to Human Rights Watch, Macron should emphasize the importance of safeguarding human rights as an essential part of any enduring and mutually beneficial strategic partnership. As the leader of Southeast Asia’s largest democracy, Prabowo has a pivotal responsibility to champion both domestic and international human rights standards.
Both leaders should also explore ways to leverage their partnership to exert diplomatic pressure where necessary. For example, they could collaborate to urge Myanmar’s military junta to halt its widespread human rights abuses and press China to reform its policies toward the Uyghur population in Xinjiang.
By embedding human rights in their diplomatic agenda, Macron and Prabowo can build a partnership that not only advances economic and military goals but also stands as a clear commitment to human dignity and freedom. This approach could set a precedent for future strategic alliances that balance national interests with fundamental values.
Ultimately, maintaining this balance will ensure the France-Indonesia strategic partnership remains resilient and credible, benefiting both nations and strengthening global norms on human rights and international cooperation.
