Yogyakarta, February 12, 2025 – The Raboan Perspective Sharing session once again sparked an insightful discussion on bioethics with the theme “FOR ALL HUMANITY: Toward a Culturally Sensitive Bioethics.” This event featured Prof. Syafaatun Almirzanah, MA, M.Th, Ph.D, D.Min, Head of the Center for Spirituality, Science, and Humanity at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, as the keynote speaker. The discussion was moderated by dr. Galuh Dyah Fatmala from the Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH), Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FKKMK) UGM, as well as the UNESCO Chair on Bioethics UGM.

This webinar highlighted the importance of a culturally sensitive approach to bioethics in an increasingly pluralistic and complex society. Bioethics is not solely a concern of the medical field but extends to various disciplines, including social sciences, politics, and religion. In her presentation, Prof. Syafaatun emphasized that bioethical understanding must consider the diverse identities present in society, as each individual carries unique cultural, religious, and social values.

One key takeaway from the discussion was the need to respect and appreciate diversity in society. In this context, Prof. Syafaatun underscored the importance of inclusive democracy and active participation from all groups to create a more just social order. The discussion also explored human rights in bioethics, particularly regarding equal access to healthcare and education without discrimination.

This topic is closely linked to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. A culturally sensitive approach to bioethics ensures that healthcare services are delivered fairly and with dignity, supporting the well-being of all individuals regardless of their backgrounds. Additionally, through the lens of pluralism, the discussion emphasized the importance of building inclusive and strong institutions to sustain better healthcare and social systems.

The session also addressed various ethical dilemmas in medicine, including euthanasia, physician-assisted suicide, and organ transplantation challenges. Prof. Syafaatun stressed that despite the differing perspectives on these issues, justice, empathy, and respect for human rights should always be prioritized.

Through this discussion, CBMH UGM aims to continuously promote awareness and understanding of the importance of an inclusive and culturally based bioethics. Collaboration between academics, practitioners, and the wider community is key to developing a fairer and more sustainable bioethics system in the future.

This Raboan discussion reaffirmed that a culturally sensitive approach to bioethics is crucial in building a more inclusive and harmonious society. By understanding the intersection of cultural identity, religion, and social values, we can create a more human-centered and just ethical system for all.

Reporter : Rafi Khairuna Wibisono, S.Kom
Editor : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.