Civic Space Under Pressure: The Challenges Posed by National Strategic Projects on Human Rights Cities
Dewi Indriana [Human Rights Advocate] Alyaa Nabiilah Zuhroh [Human Rights Advocate]
I. INTRODUCTION
What happens when a communities lacks sufficient civic space? The consequences can be dire: the suppression of free expression, the erosion of public trust in governance, and rise of authoritarianism. Particularly in democratic societies, civic space is vital for active citizen participation and accountability in decision-making. At the local level, where governance has a direct impact on citizens, the preservation of civic space is especially critical. This is where the concept of Human Rights Cities (HRCs) comes into play. HRCs aim to create inclusive environments by embedding human rights in municipal policies through community-led initiatives and international support. Despite successes in cities like Gwangju and Barcelona, many cities struggle with HRC adoption. Research highlights that Boston faces political resistance and financial constraints, while Madrid deals with legal restrictions and budget cuts, reflecting a broader trend of dwindling civic space due to limited resources and economic priorities.
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IV. RECOMMENDATION
To mitigate the challenges that PSN poses to HRCs and civic space, a strategic shift is necessary. First, the national ratification of the Gwangju Declaration on Human Rights Cities would lay a firmer legal groundwork for HRCs, mandating both national and local action plans to better counter the negative impacts of national development projects. Second, revising PSN policies to align with the Principles of Business and Human Rights would promote responsible investment practices that balance economic growth with human rights protections. Third, strengthening the capacity of local governments in implementing human rights, especially in the economic development context. Finally, it is crucial to empower local communities at all levels to actively promote HRC principles. This approach ensures that human rights initiatives remain deeply rooted and resilient to political changes, maintaining momentum even when leadership shifts occur. By embracing these changes, Indonesia can turn its economic trajectory into one that not only uplifts its growth but also reinforces civic freedoms through the principles of Human Rights Cities.
Civic Space Under Pressure:
The Challenges Posed by National Strategic Projects on Human Rights Cities
Dewi Indriana [Human Rights Advocate]
Alyaa Nabiilah Zuhroh [Human Rights Advocate]
I. INTRODUCTION
What happens when a communities lacks sufficient civic space? The consequences can be dire: the suppression of free expression, the erosion of public trust in governance, and rise of authoritarianism. Particularly in democratic societies, civic space is vital for active citizen participation and accountability in decision-making. At the local level, where governance has a direct impact on citizens, the preservation of civic space is especially critical. This is where the concept of Human Rights Cities (HRCs) comes into play. HRCs aim to create inclusive environments by embedding human rights in municipal policies through community-led initiatives and international support. Despite successes in cities like Gwangju and Barcelona, many cities struggle with HRC adoption. Research highlights that Boston faces political resistance and financial constraints, while Madrid deals with legal restrictions and budget cuts, reflecting a broader trend of dwindling civic space due to limited resources and economic priorities.
.
.
.
IV. RECOMMENDATION
To mitigate the challenges that PSN poses to HRCs and civic space, a strategic shift is necessary. First, the national ratification of the Gwangju Declaration on Human Rights Cities would lay a firmer legal groundwork for HRCs, mandating both national and local action plans to better counter the negative impacts of national development projects. Second, revising PSN policies to align with the Principles of Business and Human Rights would promote responsible investment practices that balance economic growth with human rights protections. Third, strengthening the capacity of local governments in implementing human rights, especially in the economic development context. Finally, it is crucial to empower local communities at all levels to actively promote HRC principles. This approach ensures that human rights initiatives remain deeply rooted and resilient to political changes, maintaining momentum even when leadership shifts occur. By embracing these changes, Indonesia can turn its economic trajectory into one that not only uplifts its growth but also reinforces civic freedoms through the principles of Human Rights Cities.