Embracing humanity: A call to rethink refugee policies in Indonesia

In limbo: A UNHCR delegation inspecting a Rohingya refugees' temporary shelter at a government building in Banda Aceh in April. Indonesians are less welcoming of refugees now as more and more become stranded there due to the lack of resettlement plans. — AFP

IN recent months, the shores of Aceh in Indonesia have seen a steady influx of boats carrying refugees, contributing to the existing population of displaced individuals in the country.

Once regarded as a safe haven for Rohingya refugees, Aceh has now adopted a stance of aloofness, treating these refugees as outsiders rather than fellow humans in need of compassion and support.