Indonesia and ICRC Discuss Myanmar Crisis at UN General Assembly

Indonesia and ICRC Discuss Myanmar Crisis at UN General Assembly

During the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi, met with Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The meeting focused on the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, which began when a military coup overthrew the elected government on February 1, 2021, leading to nationwide protests.

Marsudi highlighted the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) commitment to the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) as a reference for resolving the crises triggered by the military coup in Myanmar. Spoljaric expressed her gratitude to Indonesia for its continuous support for the ICRC and expressed hope that Indonesia and the ICRC could further strengthen their relationship through dialogue and cooperation.

Indonesia’s Efforts as the 2023 ASEAN Chair

As the 2023 chair of ASEAN, Indonesia has implemented various measures, including distributing humanitarian aid to Myanmar. Marsudi emphasized that Indonesia’s commitment to help Myanmar’s population will continue even after its ASEAN chairmanship term ends, through a troika mechanism agreed upon at the 43rd ASEAN Summit.

This mechanism involves Laos, the subsequent chair of ASEAN, initiating the implementation of the 5PC, assisted by Indonesia and Malaysia, to ensure its sustainability. However, the junta has been unwilling to implement the consensus genuinely. Consequently, ASEAN decided not to invite Myanmar’s political representatives to its meetings and summits.

The Importance of the Five-Point Consensus

During the 43rd ASEAN Summit, Indonesian President Joko Widodo emphasized the importance of the 5PC as ASEAN’s main guidelines for assisting Myanmar. While chairing ASEAN, Indonesia has reached out to various parties in Myanmar, including the National Unity Government, the State Administrative Council, ethnic resistance organizations, and civil society, to facilitate inclusive dialogue, a part of the 5PC.

Indonesia’s Commitment Beyond ASEAN Chairmanship

Indonesia’s role in addressing the Myanmar crisis does not end with its ASEAN chairmanship. The nation has shown a commitment to continue supporting the Myanmar population and pushing for the application of the 5PC through the troika mechanism. This approach ensures that the effort to resolve the crisis continues, with Laos leading the efforts, and with the assistance of Indonesia and Malaysia.

The cooperation between these nations and their dedication to the 5PC underscore the importance of regional unity and collective action in addressing crises. It also highlights the significant role that Indonesia has taken on in this endeavor, not just as an ASEAN member, but as a key player in the region dedicated to preserving peace and stability.

The ongoing crisis in Myanmar is a test for ASEAN and its member states, particularly Indonesia as the 2023 chair. The successful resolution of this crisis depends heavily on the collective efforts of these nations, their commitment to the 5PC, and their determination to uphold the principles of democracy, rule of law, and human rights.

Indonesia has shown its unwavering commitment to these principles and its willingness to take on a leading role in addressing the crisis. As the situation in Myanmar continues to evolve, Indonesia’s efforts, along with those of other ASEAN members, will be crucial in bringing about a peaceful resolution.