Fernando Sihotang

Fernando Sihotang is a Lecturer at the University of North Sumatera, Indonesia, and coordinates human rights and advocacy programs for the National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation in Indonesia. He graduated from the M.A. Human Rights program in 2018, which he credits for advancing his career goals. His research focuses on labor conditions in palm oil plantations, socio-cultural rights of indigenous communities impacted by tourism development at Lake Toba, and interfaith relations regarding religious freedom in Indonesia.

Education:

• M.A. Human Rights (2018)

Research Interests: Fernando’s work bridges academic and practical human rights advocacy, with a focus on marginalized groups. His current projects include:

• Analysis of labor rights violations in palm oil plantations
• Economic and cultural rights of indigenous communities displaced by tourism projects
• Religious freedom dynamics between Muslim and Christian communities

Professional Roles: In addition to teaching, he manages national-level human rights programs, leveraging his NGO experience and academic background to influence policy and grassroots initiatives.