Indonesia is infamous for the many atrocities and human rights abuses committed by its military and police, particularly in conflict areas such as Papua, Aceh and East Timor. There have been many activists, NGOs and reports that have brought these abuses to light and by and large the world is aware of what has gone on; and what still goes on.
Unfortunately while many wrongdoings receive attention from human rights defenders, there are still many issues in Indonesia that do not. The plight of people with mental illness is one such concern. Hundreds of thousands of Indonesians with mental illness receive no treatment and are usually kept in conditions worse than animals.
For a country with an ever-increasing number of 'super rich' entrepreneurs and billionaire politicians, it is a sorry state that the people who need help most are sidelined as the gap widens between rich and poor.
Check out this report by The Age on the treatment of Indonesia's mentally ill:
LOST LIVES
Indonesia has ratified the United Nations' Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. This could be a contravention of Indonesia's obligations under this treaty.
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