Komnas HAM urges participatory approach in Aceh disaster recovery

hartono · May 14, 2026

Komnas HAM urges participatory approach in Aceh disaster recovery

National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) Chairperson Atnike Nova Sigiro speaks to the press regarding disaster management in Aceh, in Banda Aceh, Aceh, on Wednesday (May 13, 2026). ANTARA/Rahmat Fajri

Banda Aceh, Aceh (ANTARA) - The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) called on the government to adopt a participatory approach in post-disaster recovery efforts in Aceh, particularly in the relocation of affected residents.

"A participatory consultation process between the community to be relocated and the government is essential," Komnas HAM Chairperson Atnike Nova Sigiro said in Banda Aceh, Aceh, on Wednesday.

She made the statement to reporters after attending a discussion on accelerating Aceh's rehabilitation and reconstruction following the fatal floods and landslides that struck the province in late 2025.

Sigiro explained that, from a human rights standpoint, relocating a home has a profound impact on the future of a family, even when they are facing imminent danger or are vulnerable to disasters.

"The relocation process must be participatory; there must be a consultation between the residents and the government to determine the sites," she asserted.

In her view, beyond selecting the right locations, the government must also consider the economic, social, cultural, and security impacts on the relocated community to ensure their right to welfare is not undermined.

Furthermore, she stressed that the government must ensure the relocation land has a clear legal standing to prevent future disputes.

She outlined that another crucial step is ensuring employment opportunities for those who farm, trade, or work in the informal sector—specifically, whether they can continue their livelihoods in the new location as they did before.

In addition, she noted that the children's access to school must also be guaranteed.

"When we talk about safety, the environment must be healthy, secure, and free from disaster risks," she remarked.

Sigiro acknowledged that the process will not be easy, requiring patience from the government to find "clean and clear" land while ensuring the welfare of relocated residents.

"This process cannot be done through coercion. If forced, the residents will likely be unwilling to cooperate," she said.