Human Rights and Climate Change: The 2011 National Human Rights Action Plan (RANHAM) and Its Role in Promoting Climate Justice

Abstract

This paper explores the role of Indonesia’s 2011 National Human Rights Action Plan (RANHAM) in promoting climate justice, with a focus on how the country’s human rights framework intersects with climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. As climate change increasingly threatens the fundamental rights of individuals—particularly in vulnerable communities—there is a growing recognition of the need to integrate human rights protections into climate policies. RANHAM, as the country’s primary framework for advancing human rights, provides an opportunity to assess how human rights principles can be incorporated into national climate action strategies. This study examines RANHAM’s provisions related to environmental rights, the right to a healthy environment, and its alignment with international climate justice frameworks. By reviewing the actions and commitments outlined in RANHAM, this research assesses the extent to which climate justice is considered within Indonesia’s human rights policies, especially for marginalized groups who face disproportionate climate risks, such as indigenous communities, women, and rural populations. Through policy analysis, interviews with stakeholders, and case studies, the research evaluates the implementation of RANHAM in addressing climate-induced human rights violations, such as displacement, loss of livelihood, and access to essential resources. Findings suggest that while RANHAM has contributed to raising awareness of climate-related human rights issues, significant gaps remain in ensuring that climate justice principles are fully realized within the country’s broader human rights agenda. The paper calls for stronger integration of climate justice into RANHAM, emphasizing the need for a more rights-based approach to climate action that prioritizes the protection and empowerment of vulnerable communities.