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Indonesia to Lead UN Human Rights Council Session in 2026 | Tempo.co

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Geneva will host a historic session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) as Indonesia assumes the presidency for the first time. This marks a significant moment for Indonesian multilateral diplomacy and a key opportunity to shape the global human rights agenda. The 61st regular session of the UNHRC, scheduled to begin in March, will be led by Indonesia after officially taking on the role on January 8, 2026.

The assumption of the presidency underscores Indonesia’s growing role on the international stage and its commitment to advancing human rights globally. According to officials, this session represents a vital momentum for Indonesia to contribute to discussions on pressing human rights issues worldwide. The country aims to foster a more dialogical, constructive, and inclusive approach to global human rights governance during its tenure.

Indonesia’s Permanent Representative in Geneva, Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, will be responsible for leading the session and overseeing the internal processes of the Council throughout 2026. Director of Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs at Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indah Nuria Savitri, highlighted the importance of this moment during a press conference on February 19, 2026, stating, “So, in this 61st HRC session, it will be the first time that we lead the regular session of the HRC as the 20th President of the HRC.”

High-Level Discussions and Global Challenges

The 61st session of the UNHRC, held bi-annually in March and August, will feature a high-level segment attracting ministerial-level officials and dignitaries from around the world. These discussions are expected to reflect the complex and evolving global dynamics impacting human rights. Savitri explained that the session will address issues “of advancing and protecting human rights, and what is of international concern will usually be reflected in the negotiation process.”

Indonesia’s leadership comes at a critical time, as the international community grapples with numerous challenges to human rights, including ongoing conflicts, political instability, and the rise of authoritarianism. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hopes the UNHRC will continue to function as the primary platform for global discussion on these issues, maintaining its credibility and effectiveness. Indonesia emphasizes the importance of consistent and efficient discussions on related matters.

Strengthening Multilateral Diplomacy

The Indonesian government views its presidency of the UNHRC as a strategic opportunity to strengthen multilateral diplomacy and promote a more inclusive approach to human rights. This leadership role is intended to facilitate dialogue and collaboration among nations, fostering a shared commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms and promoting justice. Indonesia seeks to ensure the Council maintains its integrity as a central forum for addressing global human rights concerns.

Indonesia’s commitment to multilateralism is further demonstrated by its recent engagement in international forums. For example, Indonesia has been actively involved in discussions regarding the situation in Gaza, claiming participation in the International Solidarity Foundation (ISF) has gained Palestine “consent” – as reported by Google News. This illustrates Indonesia’s proactive stance on international issues and its willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts and promote peace.

Looking ahead, Indonesia’s presidency of the UNHRC will be closely watched by the international community. The country’s ability to navigate complex challenges and foster constructive dialogue will be crucial in shaping the future of human rights globally. The outcomes of the 61st session and subsequent meetings will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the international human rights landscape.

As Indonesia takes on this important role, continued engagement and collaboration among nations will be essential to address the pressing human rights challenges facing the world today. Share your thoughts on Indonesia’s new role in the comments below.

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world

Telegram Denies Russia’s Claims of Encryption Breach, Spy Access to Soldier Messages

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Telegram has refuted allegations made by Russia’s Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadayev that foreign intelligence agencies can access messages sent by Russian soldiers in Ukraine, as Moscow tightens restrictions on the messaging application. The denial came Thursday, according to Reuters.

“No breaches of Telegram’s encryption have ever been found… The Russian government’s allegation that our encryption has been compromised is a deliberate fabrication,” Telegram stated.

Shadayev told State Duma lawmakers on Wednesday that there was “ample evidence” that access to Telegram messages had been exploited in military operations against Russian forces. He did not identify which countries’ intelligence services were involved, according to reporting by The Moscow Times.

The minister’s comments followed a public outcry after Russia’s state media regulator, Roskomnadzor, announced fresh restrictions on Telegram last week. Roskomnadzor accused Telegram of failing to adequately address fraud and protect user data, while Shadayev claimed the company had ignored 150,000 government requests to remove prohibited content, including child pornography, as reported by Türkiye Today.

Telegram characterized the new measures as “intended to justify outlawing Telegram and forcing citizens on to a state-controlled messaging platform engineered for mass surveillance and censorship,” referencing Russia’s government-backed messenger, Max. WhatsApp, which has over 100 million users in Russia, made similar accusations last week following confirmation from the Kremlin that Roskomnadzor was blocking the app.

Shadayev expressed hope that Russian soldiers would transition to Max, but affirmed that Telegram would remain operational in areas near the front lines in Ukraine. This decision came after pro-war bloggers and State Duma members voiced concerns that restrictions on Telegram would disrupt command and control systems for Russian troops.

Telegram, headquartered in Dubai, and its founder, Pavel Durov, have consistently denied sharing user data or private messages with governments.

Despite the restrictions, President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, stated Thursday that the Kremlin’s own Telegram channel was unaffected. “We have many compatriots abroad, and many foreigners are interested in the president’s agenda. It’s in our interest to communicate that agenda,” Peskov said, responding to a journalist from the Telegram channel Life who reported difficulty loading the Kremlin’s videos.

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world

UK Space Launch Liability Cap Now in Effect

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

The United Kingdom has implemented a cap on liability for launch operators, a move designed to encourage investment and growth in the country’s emerging space sector. The new regulations, which came into effect on February 18, 2026, address a key concern for companies looking to conduct launches from British soil – the potentially unlimited financial risk associated with accidents. This development arrives as the UK aims to establish itself as a competitive player in the global space launch market.

For years, the absence of a clear liability framework has been cited as a significant obstacle to attracting launch providers. Without a defined limit on financial responsibility in the event of a launch failure causing damage or injury, companies faced potentially ruinous costs. The newly established cap aims to mitigate this risk, fostering a more predictable and stable environment for businesses. This is particularly important for smaller, innovative firms that may lack the substantial financial reserves of larger, established players.

Understanding the New Liability Framework

The specifics of the liability cap are detailed in the Space Industry (Indemnities) Bill, which received parliamentary approval in 2024–25, as reported by the House of Lords Library ([2]). Although the exact amount of the cap hasn’t been publicly disclosed in detail, It’s designed to balance the need to protect the public and third parties with the need to encourage commercial activity. The framework will likely involve a tiered system, with different levels of liability depending on the nature of the launch and the potential risks involved.

The implementation of this cap is a “timely boost” for the nascent domestic market, according to SpaceNews ([1]). Companies like Skyrora, which have been working towards conducting launches from the UK, stand to benefit significantly from the reduced financial exposure.

Geopolitical Context and Regional Stakes

The UK’s push to develop its own space launch capabilities is occurring within a broader context of increasing international competition in the space sector. Russia’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine have also highlighted the strategic importance of independent access to space, prompting Western nations to bolster their own capabilities. The U.S. Department of State has recently imposed sanctions aimed at disrupting Russia’s military industrial base and preventing sanctions evasion ([4]), further emphasizing the need for diversified launch options.

The UK’s ambition extends beyond simply launching satellites. The government is also focused on attracting investment in related industries, such as satellite manufacturing, data analytics, and space-based services. Balancing this commercial growth with sustainability concerns is a key challenge, as highlighted by stewartslaw.com ([5]).

What to Expect Next

With the liability cap now in place, the focus will shift to attracting launch operators to utilize UK facilities. Several potential spaceports are under development across the country, including sites in Scotland and Wales. The success of these ventures will depend on a range of factors, including securing funding, obtaining necessary licenses, and demonstrating a commitment to safety and environmental responsibility. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the UK can successfully establish itself as a significant player in the global space launch industry.

What are your thoughts on the UK’s new space launch liability framework? Share your comments below, and please share this article with your network.

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world

Prince Andrew Arrested: Epstein Link Investigation Deepens

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

London – Former Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has been detained by British police on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in connection with allegations of misconduct in public office. The investigation stems from scrutiny surrounding his association with the late convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing legal and public relations challenges facing the British royal family.

Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his 60s, later identified by multiple news outlets as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, at an address in Berkshire. Authorities stated they are conducting searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the inquiry. The arrest relates to suspicions of improper behavior during his tenure as the UK’s special representative for international trade, a role he held from 2001 to 2011. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has stated that misconduct in public office carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

The investigation centers on claims that Prince Andrew may have shared confidential information with Epstein. Recent documents, surfacing on February 11th, reportedly indicate the former prince transmitted a “confidential report” regarding investment opportunities in Afghanistan to Epstein via email on December 24, 2010. These documents, part of the broader Epstein files, also suggest Andrew shared reports on work trips to China, Singapore, and Vietnam during the same period, according to reporting from El Periódico.

This arrest follows years of scrutiny regarding Prince Andrew’s relationship with Epstein and allegations of sexual assault. Virginia Giuffre, who has accused Epstein of sex trafficking, alleged in 2014 that she was trafficked to the UK by Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell and forced to have sexual relations with Prince Andrew, claims he has consistently denied. Further allegations have surfaced through legal representatives of other women who claim Epstein facilitated encounters with the royal.

King Charles III, upon learning of his brother’s arrest, stated that “justice must follow its course,” according to reports. Last year, the King stripped Prince Andrew of his royal titles and removed him from official duties in response to the ongoing controversy surrounding his ties to Epstein. Despite this, Andrew remains eighth in the line of succession to the British throne.

Images circulating in British tabloids, such as the Daily Mail, demonstrate a convoy of vehicles near Wood Farm, the residence Prince Andrew moved to after being asked to vacate Royal Lodge. The images suggest a police operation was underway at the property.

The arrest of Prince Andrew represents a significant moment in the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal, with potential implications for the British monarchy. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge and what legal consequences Prince Andrew may face. The Thames Valley Police have not provided a timeline for the completion of their investigation.

The situation continues to develop, and further updates will be provided as they turn into available. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage in respectful discussion in the comments section below.

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