The Andrie Yunus Case Becomes a Highlight Because It Concerns the Safety of Human Rights Defenders

This case has received widespread attention not only because of the extreme nature of the violence, but also because the victim is a human rights activist who has been active in advocating for sensitive issues. According to KontraS, the attack occurred after Andrie participated in a podcast at the YLBHI office entitled “Remilitarism and judicial review in Indonesia”. KontraS considers the event to be an attack on critical voices of civil society and urges the authorities to uncover not only the perpetrators, but also the motives behind the attack.

Concern for Andrie's safety is also inseparable from the history of pressure he had previously revealed. After protesting the discussion of the Bill on the TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) in March 2025, Andrie reported receiving calls from unknown numbers and the arrival of unknown people to the KontraS office. In the hearing of formal review of the TNI Law in the Constitutional Court, Andrie again conveyed that there had been physical and digital intimidation after the action. These facts do not prove a direct link to the latest attack, but are sufficient to show that the advocacy work he carries out is indeed in a real risk situation.

Therefore, the demand that the perpetrators of the acid attack be arrested immediately does not only concern justice for one victim. This matter also touches on broader issues, namely guarantees of security for human rights defenders, public trust in law enforcement, and the state's ability to maintain civil liberties. If the police are able to uncover the perpetrators and motives quickly, transparently and accountably, then the state shows that attacks on activists will not be allowed to pass without accountability. Conversely, if this case drags on without clarity, what is strengthened is fear and the impression of impunity.