Legal Protection of Family Rights and the Dignity of COVID-19 Patients’ Remains in Indonesia: Proportionality and Regulatory Harmonization
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37680/jshel.v4i2.11012Keywords:
COVID-19; Handling of the Deceased; Human Rights; Dignity of the Deceased; Post-Mortem Rights; Health Law; ProportionalityAbstract
This study examines the compatibility of Indonesia’s legal framework for handling the remains of COVID-19 patients with human rights principles, particularly the dignity of the deceased, family rights, and the proportionality of public health restrictions. Using normative legal research, it analyzes relevant national legislation and policy instruments, including the 1945 Constitution, Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 12 of 2005 ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and Minister of Health Decrees No.HK.01.07/MENKES/413/2020 and No.HK.01.07/MENKES/4834/20 21. It also examines MUI Fatwa No. 18 of 2020, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and relevant World Health Organization guidance. The findings show that Indonesia’s regulatory framework emphasizes infection prevention and public health protection, but raises concerns about restrictions on family participation, transparency in decision-making, and consistency of implementation. The study highlights the need for clearer legal safeguards for families and stronger recognition of the deceased’s dignity during post-mortem procedures. It recommends harmonizing regulations, ensuring transparent communication with families, and adopting human rights-based protocols that balance public health needs with fundamental rights. The study contributes to health law and human rights scholarship.
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