Volume 3, No. 4 April 2024 (0000-0000)
p-ISSN 2980-4868 | e-ISSN 2980-4841
https://ajesh.ph/index.php/gp
Rohingya Refugees in Indonesia: Risk Evaluation to National Security
and Resilience
Afif Nur
Anshari1*, Muhammad Sya’roni Rofii2,
Eko Daryanto3
1,2,3Universitas
Indonesia, Depok, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
Email: afif.nur@ui.ac.id1*,
muhammadsyaroni@ui.ac.id2,
eko.daryanto20@ui.ac.id3
ABSTRACT
This study aims to evaluate the risks to
Indonesia's national security and resilience due to the arrival of Rohingya
refugees. The focus of this research is on the impact of Rohingya refugees in
Indonesia. This study uses a qualitative approach and combines primary data
from interviews with relevant stakeholders and secondary data from official
sources. The results identified several potential threats to national security
and resilience, including instability in refugee camps, violent practices
within camps, and impacts on local communities. Research also highlights the
importance of effective conflict integration and management in preventing a
potential escalation of conflict among Rohingya refugees and local communities.
The conclusion of the study provides recommendations to strengthen risk
management strategies for the Indonesian government, the Rohingya refugee
community, and the international parties involved. By considering this context,
the study contributes to a better understanding of how the presence of Rohingya
refugees can affect Indonesia's national security and resilience.
Keywords: Refugees, Rohingya, Risk, Security,
Resistance, Indonesian.
INTRODUCTION
The Rohingya
refugee crisis in Indonesia has attracted international attention. In recent
years, the wave of Rohingya refugees coming to Indonesian territory, especially
in Aceh Province, has become a complex issue
Since mid-November
2023, Aceh has become a berth for 1,543 Rohingya refugees, with a total of 9
boats arriving. UNHCR, as of December 10, 2023, revealed that most of the
refugees, namely 514 people, were accommodated at the former Lhokseumawe immigration office. Meanwhile, Pidie Regency has two shelter locations with 755 people.
The number of other refugees is scattered in several places, such as CT 1 BPKS Sabang Pier (139 people), Balee Meuseuraya Aceh Building in Banda Aceh (135 people), and
old refugees in Pidie (140 people). Interestingly, of
the total refugees, half are children. Detailed data as of December 10, 2023,
also records the arrival of refugees from several boats with several variants,
showing the magnitude of the challenges faced by the government and local
communities in dealing with this refugee crisis
According to Media Databoks presented by Erlina F. Santika, as of September 2023, there are 1,094,198 Rohingya
refugees and asylum seekers without citizenship status from Myanmar, referring
to data held by UNHCR, namely, most refugees are in Bangladesh (965,467
people), followed by Malaysia (105,762 people) and India (22,110 people).
Indonesia is the country that hosts the least Rohingya refugees, which is 859
people. The UNHCR noted that these Rohingya refugees are people without
citizenship status from Myanmar and are also counted as Myanmar refugees and
asylum seekers. This humanitarian situation has worsened since February 2021
due to conflict and political upheaval in Myanmar
This research
focuses on evaluating the risks to national security and resilience faced by
Indonesia due to the arrival of Rohingya refugees
The novelty of this
research, based on recent data, highlights over 1,500 Rohingya individuals
sheltered in Aceh, with 514 documented at the former Lhokseumawe
immigration office, half of whom are children. Despite Indonesia hosting a
small fraction of the Rohingya refugee population, this study aims to assess
the interplay between national security, resilience, and the refugee influx. It
seeks to analyze specific risks and provide policy
recommendations tailored to Indonesia's context, contributing significantly to
the discourse on Indonesia's response to the crisis.
RESEARCH METHODS
The Risk Evaluation to National Security and Resilience
in this study presents an analysis of the impact of the arrival of Rohingya
refugees in Indonesia. With a descriptive analysis approach and case studies,
this research illustrates the complexity of national security and resilience
issues that arise along with the refugee crisis. Risk factors involve potential
social conflict, health threats, potential radicalization, and legal
uncertainty regarding refugee status.
Through a literature review, the study details the long
history of the Rohingya crisis, highlighting the historical, ethnic, religious,
and political root causes. Previous studies provide insight into the challenges
faced by ASEAN, particularly Indonesia, in providing effective protection to
Rohingya refugees. The subjects of the study, refugees and asylum seekers, are
described as human groups caught up in conflict, human rights abuses, and
global humanitarian crises.
The risks to national security and resilience arising
from the presence of refugees are discussed in detail. The analysis focuses on
challenges such as social conflict, health threats, and potential
radicalization. This research method uses descriptive analysis design and case
studies using data sources in the form of media news, previous research,
scientific journals, theory books, and opinions of figures in related media.
With the results of content analysis and theoretical approaches, this study
provides an overview of security risks and develops a risk evaluation framework
for national resilience. Policy conclusions and recommendations are generated, guiding
better understanding and concrete steps in response to the impact of Rohingya
refugees in Indonesia.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Security Risk Overview
The overview of national security and defense risks
related to the Rohingya refugee crisis in Indonesia covers a number of complex
aspects that could affect the country's stability and resilience. First,
refugees can trigger potential social conflicts with local communities.
Competition for resources and jobs is a potential trigger that can create
tensions between these groups. This kind of social conflict can be detrimental
to domestic security and requires an effective government response.
Second, health risks arise with increasing numbers of
refugees coming from conflict areas with limited access to health services.
Poor health conditions among refugees can trigger the spread of disease and
create additional burdens on national health systems. Therefore, health risk
management is important to maintain the stability of overall public health.
The risks of radicalization and national security also
need attention. The existence of refugees can be used by those who seek to
recruit or spread radical ideology. This could result in potential threats to
national security. Therefore, there is a need for effective security measures
to prevent the spread of radical ideology among refugees and mitigate potential
national security risks.
Risks related to legal uncertainty related to refugee
status can create challenges related to their rights and responsibilities.
These conditions can increase the risk of exploitation and marginalization,
with refugees becoming vulnerable to unfavorable
situations. This risk evaluation needs to pay attention to Human Security
theory and Realism, detailing refugee presence's social, economic, and
humanitarian impacts to formulate holistic and effective policies. By
understanding and managing these risks, the Indonesian government can take
proactive steps to maintain national security and resilience in the face of the
Rohingya refugee crisis.
National Security and Resilience Risk Evaluation
Indonesia is not yet a party to the 1951 Convention and
the 1967 Protocol on Refugees, but Indonesia certainly has a moral and
humanitarian obligation to protect refugees, including Rohingya refugees.
Therefore, developing a risk evaluation framework for national resilience
related to Rohingya refugees needs to consider these moral and humanitarian
obligations and their impact on various aspects of life
Meanwhile, in the global context, handling the Rohingya
case in Myanmar also requires a conflict resolution approach involving peace
and humanitarian practitioners. Risk evaluation of national resilience also
needs to consider the impact of conflict resolution in countries of origin on
refugee flows and regional stability. Thus, developing a risk evaluation
framework for national resilience related to Rohingya refugees requires a
comprehensive approach and involves various aspects, both from the national and
international sides. This is important to ensure adequate protection for
refugees while considering the impact on national resilience.
Potential Conflicts and Their Resolution
The potential for conflict in areas visited by Rohingya
refugees involves complex dynamics between refugees, local communities, and the
surrounding environment. One factor triggering conflict is competition for
resources, where the arrival of refugees increases demand for water, food,
shelter, and jobs, creating competition with local communities. The economic
and social uncertainty arising from the arrival of refugees can also cause
tensions, especially if local communities feel threatened by these uncertain
conditions. Cultural, religious, and value differences between refugees and
local communities can also be a source of tension, especially if there are no
efforts to promote understanding and tolerance between the two. The lack of
integration of refugees into local communities, as well as legal uncertainty
and their status, can also create disagreements and tensions. In addition,
political and security issues could play a role in complicating relations
between Rohingya refugees and local communities. By understanding these
factors, mitigation measures such as the promotion of inter-group dialogue,
increased social and economic integration of refugees, and efforts to build
understanding and tolerance can be taken to reduce potential conflicts in the
area.
Efforts to resolve conflicts between Rohingya refugees
and local communities in Indonesia involve a number of aspects that must be
addressed together. The government's response became a key factor, including
concrete measures such as providing access to healthcare, education, and job
training to facilitate the integration of refugees into local communities. In
addition, the involvement of international agencies such as UNHCR and IOM can
provide protection and assistance for refugees and support their integration
efforts.
The importance of education and awareness of local
communities is also emphasized, with an increased understanding of the
backgrounds and conditions of Rohingya refugees and promoting empathy and
cooperation. Encouraging dialogue between these groups and overcoming
stereotypes and prejudices through intergroup dialogue is a strategic step to
build mutual understanding. The media can also play an important role in
shaping public opinion, making it important for them to play a responsible role
in reporting on Rohingya refugee issues and promoting messages of peace and
tolerance.
By combining all these elements, conflicts can be
minimized and the integration of refugees into local communities can run more
smoothly. These measures reflect the importance of cooperation between
governments, international institutions, local communities, and the media in
creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
Government Policy
The Indonesian government needs to design a balanced and
holistic policy in responding to the Rohingya refugee crisis. First, it is
important to uphold humanitarian principles by providing adequate protection to
Rohingya refugees. This involves guaranteeing basic rights such as health,
education, and employment access. Crisis management must also be inclusive and
non-discriminatory, focusing on special protection for children and women.
Regional and international cooperation is an important
aspect of resolving this refugee crisis. The Indonesian side must coordinate
closely with neighboring countries and relevant
parties such as UNHCR to find a common solution. These diplomatic and
partnership efforts are needed to address root causes, including conflict and
human rights abuses in refugees' home countries.
Serious consideration needs to be given to ratifying the
1951 Convention and the 1967 Protocol as a step towards higher international
standards in refugee protection. Adjustments to domestic regulations and
policies will be needed to implement these standards, but they could improve
the legal protection and welfare of Rohingya refugees in Indonesia.
Indonesia should prioritize the empowerment and
integration of refugees into local communities. Economic and social empowerment
programs need to be developed to ensure that refugees can be self-reliant sustainably.
Public education about refugee conditions should also be improved to reduce
stigma and create an environment that supports integration. Through this
combination of policies, Indonesia can provide a comprehensive and sustainable
response to the Rohingya refugee crisis.
Security Risk Analysis
The Security Risk Analysis related to the handling of
Rohingya refugees in Indonesia is a critical step in evaluating and managing
potential threats to national security. This process begins with the
identification of potential threats, such as the possible infiltration of
terrorists who may be exploiting the refugee situation to plan terrorist
activities or potential social conflicts among refugees and local communities.
Furthermore, an evaluation was conducted on weaknesses in monitoring boundaries,
vulnerable areas, and the capacity of security forces to respond to crisis
situations and manage potential internal conflicts.
The basic principles of risk mitigation include efforts
to strike a balance between the protection of refugees' human rights and
national security, ensuring that actions taken to support both aspects. In
addition, it is important to ensure that the presence of refugees increases the
capacity of national defense and security forces to
maintain territorial integrity. Risk mitigation strategies involve close
collaboration with security forces, such as the TNI and Polri,
by formulating rapid response plans and effective monitoring systems.
The strategy also includes addressing potential threats,
such as rapid response to emergency events, identification and containment of problem
individuals, and continuous evaluation of risks that may arise. Through this
approach, the handling of Rohingya refugees can be carried out with attention
to national security without neglecting humanitarian obligations to refugees.
Basic Principles of Risk Mitigation
Security risk analysis is a crucial aspect in designing
mitigation policies and actions. The basic principles of risk mitigation serve
as essential guidelines that first emphasize comprehensive risk identification.
Authorities can formulate a careful strategy by understanding potential threats
in terms of national security and human rights.
A thorough process of risk evaluation and analysis allows
for an accurate assessment of the severity and likelihood of a risk occurring.
In this context, the focus on Rohingya refugees involves deep consideration of
potential terrorist threats, internal conflicts, and other security issues. A
good evaluation becomes the basis for implementing appropriate and effective
mitigation measures.
The principle of balance between security and human
rights highlights the importance of finding the right balance point. In the
case of refugees, this includes efforts to involve them in the security process
without compromising human rights that should be protected. Collaboration and
coordination among various relevant parties, including security forces,
government agencies, and international organizations, are an important
foundation for a coordinated and efficient response.
Rapid response and adaptation to constantly changing
dynamics in risk situations are also important principles. The ability to adapt
mitigation strategies to rapid response to changing situations ensures the
effectiveness of the measures taken. By applying these principles, the handling
of Rohingya refugees in Indonesia can be carried out in a balanced manner,
reducing the impact of risks on national security while still paying attention
to humanitarian obligations.
Security Risk Mitigation Strategy
Mitigating security risks in handling Rohingya refugees
in Indonesia requires a comprehensive approach involving various aspects of
national security. First of all, risk identification must be done thoroughly,
involving an in-depth analysis of potential threats such as internal conflicts,
radicalization, and terrorism threats that may arise from refugee groups.
Strengthening border security is becoming a key strategy, with increased border
control and the presence of adequate security personnel.
International cooperation is essential in the form of
collaboration with institutions such as UNHCR and IOM. This cooperation can
strengthen international security networks and prevent potential cross-border
threats. The integration of refugees in security processes is also essential to
create a sense of security and mutual understanding between them and local
communities.
Risk mitigation strategies also involve outlining and
educating local communities and refugees about their rights, obligations, and
responsibilities. This education aims to ease tensions, reduce stereotypes, and
build mutual understanding. Rapid reporting and response systems are becoming
an important strategy, enabling security forces to respond to potential threats
with an effective response. Continuous monitoring and evaluation need to be
implemented to assess the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies and make
necessary adjustments according to changing situations. By adopting this
strategy, it is hoped that handling Rohingya refugees can run more safely and
stably for all parties involved.
Handling Potential Threats
Handling potential threats in the context of handling
Rohingya refugees in Indonesia requires a structured and adaptive technical
approach. First of all, it is necessary to conduct careful monitoring and
intelligence analysis of activities around the evacuation site. It involves
close cooperation between security forces, intelligence agencies, and relevant
international organizations.
Technical border security should be strengthened,
involving the use of advanced technology such as border sensors, monitoring
cameras, and aerial surveillance systems. These systems can help detect and
prevent illegal infiltration as well as potential security threats. Increasing
security personnel with specialized training in addressing potential threats
from refugee groups is also a crucial step.
The challenges faced by Rohingya refugees, especially in
refugee camps, show that almost every Rohingya refugee camp experiences
violence that could threaten the security of the host country. Bangladesh, for
example, faces a major challenge by hosting 1.2 million Rohingya refugees in
refugee camps in the southern district of Cox's Bazar. The camps tend to be
places of insecurity and danger for both refugees and aid workers and,
therefore, can have a destabilizing effect on surrounding communities.
In the Indonesian context, the potential arrival of
Rohingya refugees into the country could pose a threat to national security and
defense. The presence of irresponsible parties within
the refugee camp can trigger intimidation and internal conflict, while local
communities around the camp can also feel the negative impact. Therefore, it is
necessary to have careful integration planning and conflict management in an
effort to mitigate potential conflicts and insecurity that can arise.
Evaluation of the recommendations put forward in the paper needs to be done to
ensure that the steps taken can actually address potential security and defense threats that may arise in Indonesia due to the
presence of Rohingya refugees.
Communication and Public Awareness
Evaluation of national security and defense
risks related to Rohingya refugees in Indonesia, communication, public
awareness, and policy evaluation and revision play a crucial role. Effective
communication between governments, security agencies, and communities is a key
foundation for managing security risks. The government needs to transparently
communicate the latest information regarding policies, security measures, and
situation developments to the public. This communication can be done through a
variety of channels, including press conferences, social media, and public
information campaigns. Ensuring that the public understands the security
measures being taken can reduce uncertainty and build trust.
Raising public awareness involves education and targeted
information campaigns. Public education programs should be designed to broaden
people's understanding of the backgrounds and conditions of Rohingya refugees,
the objectives of implemented security policies, and the role of individuals in
supporting national security efforts. High public awareness can create an
environment that supports security measures and reduces potential tensions
between local communities and refugees.
Policy evaluation and revision are ongoing steps needed
to ensure responses to national security and defense
risks remain adaptive. The evaluation process should involve continuous
monitoring of the security situation, analysis of the effectiveness of measures
taken, and feedback from various stakeholders, including local communities and
international institutions. If deficiencies or adjustments are found, the
government must be willing to revise security policies according to the needs
and dynamics of the situation.
With the implementation of effective communication,
increased public awareness, and continuous evaluation and revision of policies,
the government can better manage national security and defense
risks associated with Rohingya refugees and be responsive to changing
situations.
CONCLUSION
The study delves into the Rohingya refugee crisis in
Indonesia, aiming to assess its impact on national security and resilience. As
Rohingya refugees seek shelter, Indonesia faces multifaceted challenges
spanning humanitarian, social, economic, and security domains. Through
comprehensive risk analysis, the study lays the groundwork for policy
formulation to enable the Indonesian government in effectively navigating
potential conflicts and crises. By adopting a balanced and holistic approach,
Indonesia can offer robust protection to Rohingya refugees, mitigate social
tensions, and fortify national resilience. Collaboration among regional and
international stakeholders is crucial, alongside prioritizing economic and
social empowerment, and community education to foster sustainable and inclusive
solutions.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Adwani,
A., Rosmawati, R., & Kadir, M. (2021). The
Responsibility In Protecting The Rohingya Refugees In Aceh Province,
Indonesia: An International Refugees Law Perspective. IIUMLJ, 29,
1.
Al-haddad,
R. E., & Rakshit, P. V. (2023). Finding home:
Participatory geospatial mapping with Rohingya refugees. Applied Geography,
161. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apgeog.2023.103136
Aven,
T. (2020). Bayesian analysis: Critical issues related to its scope and
boundaries in a risk context. Reliability Engineering & System Safety,
204, 107209. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ress.2020.107209
Borges, G. M. (2023).
Journey of Violence: Refugee Women’s Experiences Across Three Stages and
Places. Journal of International Migration and Integration, 1–21.
CNN-Indonesia. (2023).
Update Jumlah Total Pengungsi
Rohingya dan Sebaran Penampungan
di Aceh. CNN Indonesia. https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20231213141254-20-1036757/update-jumlah-total-pengungsi-rohingya-dan-sebaran-penampungan-di-aceh
Dupuy, K., Palik, J., & Østby, G.
(2022). No right to read: National regulatory restrictions on refugee rights
to formal education in low- and middle-income host countries. International
Journal of Educational Development, 88.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijedudev.2021.102537
Jayadi,
Y. I., & Irsyad, M. (2024). The Role of the
Indonesian Government in the Humanitarian Crisis of the Rohingya: A Systematic
Review. Jurnal Pendidikan Tambusai, 8(1), 7636–7662.
Karina, M. E. (2020). Perbandingan Kebijakan Malaysia
dan Indonesia Terhadap Pengungsi
Rohingya. Padjadjaran Journal of
International Relations, 2(2), 158–169.
Leider,
J. (2018). Rohingya: The History of a Muslim Identity in Myanmar. In Oxford
Research Encyclopedia of Asian History. Oxford
University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780190277727.013.115
Listriani,
S., & Kadir, M. Y. A. (2020). Toward a New Legal Framework for Settling
Rohingya’s Refugee Crisis in Indonesia: A Lesson Learned from Aceh Province. International
Conference on Law, Governance and Islamic Society (ICOLGIS 2019), 277–285.
Missbach,
A., & Stange, G. (2021). Muslim solidarity and
the lack of effective protection for Rohingya refugees in Southeast Asia. Social
Sciences, 10(5), 166.
Peterie,
M., & Neil, D. (2020). Xenophobia towards asylum seekers: A survey of
social theories. Journal of Sociology, 56(1), 23–35.
https://doi.org/10.1177/1440783319882526
Prabaningtyas,
R. A. R. F. (2019). Indonesia and the international refugee crisis: The
politics of refugee protection. Journal of Indonesian Social Sciences and
Humanities, 9(2), 131–146.
Purwoko,
B., Hanita, M., & Riyanta, S. (2023). Analyzing the Threat of Foreign Refugees Existence in
Indonesia through the Intelligence Perspective. Indonesian Journal of
Multidisciplinary Science, 2(12), 4217–4229.
Rahman, M., Yulia, Y., & Mukhlis, M.
(2022). Refugee Settlement Based on Local Custom Values (Study of Rohingya
Refugees in Aceh). Proceedings of Malikussaleh
International Conference on Law, Legal Studies and Social Science (MICoLLS), 2, 48.
Robbins, L. (2020). The
Rohingya Case in Aceh: Indonesia’s Role as a Destination for Refugees. Towson
University Journal of International Affairs, 53(2).
Santika,
E. F. (2023). Bangladesh hingga Indonesia Jadi Suaka bagi Pengungsi
Rohingya. Databoks.
Sutiarnoto,
S., Leviza, J., & Azam, S. (2020). Rohinga Stateless Persons: Role Of Unhcr
In Refugee Protection And Lack Of Adequate Legal Protection In Indonesia. Yustisia Jurnal Hukum,
9(2), 287. https://doi.org/10.20961/yustisia.v9i2.43196
Tinumbang,
R. R., Syaroni, M., & Daryanto,
E. (2023). Tasks and Functions of the Police Intelligence in Efforts to Handle
and Prevent Rohingya Refugees in Aceh Province. International Journal of
Social Science Research and Review, 6(6), 487–504.
Wamsler,
C., & Johannessen, Å. (2020). Meeting at the crossroads? Developing
national strategies for disaster risk reduction and resilience: Relevance,
scope for, and challenges to, integration. International Journal of
Disaster Risk Reduction, 45, 101452.
|
Afif Nur Anshari, Muhammad Sya’roni Rofii, Eko Daryanto (2024) |
|
First
publication right: Asian Journal of Engineering,
Social and Health (AJESH) |
|
This
article is licensed under:
|
