Indonesia Files Genocide Complaint Against Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing

On April 6, 2023, a coalition of civil society organizations filed a criminal complaint in Indonesia against Myanmar's newly elected President Min Aung Hlaing, accusing him of genocide against the Rohingya Muslim minority. The complaint was submitted to Indonesia's Attorney General's Office and marks a significant legal milestone in the pursuit of justice for the Rohingya, who are considered one of the world's most persecuted ethnic groups. The case was brought forward by Yasmin Ullah, a Rohingya activist and survivor, along with prominent Indonesian figures, including a former attorney general and the chairman of Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesia's largest Islamic organizations.

Indonesia Files Genocide Case Against Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing Over Rohingya CrisisThe Straits Times

The charges stem from a military offensive in 2017 led by Min Aung Hlaing's armed forces, which resulted in the forced displacement of over 730,000 Rohingya Muslims into neighboring Bangladesh. Survivors have reported widespread atrocities, including killings, mass rape, and the destruction of villages. The Rohingya remain the world's largest stateless population, with many still living in refugee settlements across the region. Indonesia, as the largest Muslim-majority nation and host of ASEAN's headquarters, has a vested interest in the ongoing crisis, as Rohingya refugees continue to arrive on its shores by boat.

Indonesia Files Genocide Case Against Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing Over Rohingya CrisisThe Straits Times

The complaint is notable as it is the first case accepted under Indonesia's updated penal code, which allows for "universal jurisdiction" over crimes deemed extraordinarily severe, regardless of where they occurred or the nationalities involved. This legal framework could pave the way for further actions against individuals accused of serious human rights violations. Yasmin Ullah expressed optimism about the case, stating, "It is the first time under Indonesia’s new penal code that a case has been officially received and I warmly welcome this historic development as a milestone for all Rohingya people on their long march to justice and accountability."

The Straits Times

Min Aung Hlaing was elected president through a parliamentary vote following a controversial election in December and January, which Western governments have described as a sham. His rise to power formalizes his control over Myanmar after the military coup in 2021, which has led to widespread protests and ongoing civil unrest. The junta has consistently denied allegations of genocide and other human rights abuses.

The Straits TimesIndonesia Files Genocide Case Against Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing Over Rohingya Crisis

The international community has expressed concern over Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya and the legitimacy of Min Aung Hlaing's presidency. A separate genocide case against Myanmar is currently being heard at the International Court of Justice, filed by Gambia, which has also accused Myanmar of targeting the Rohingya for destruction.

The Straits TimesIndonesia Files Genocide Case Against Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing Over Rohingya Crisis

• “It is the first time under Indonesia’s new penal code that a case has been officially received and I warmly welcome this historic development as a milestone for all Rohingya people on their long march to justice and accountability,” — Yasmin Ullah, Rohingya Activist

The Straits Times

This legal action in Indonesia represents a critical step in the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice for the Rohingya people, amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.

The Straits Times