Indonesia: Anti-Facebook march in Jakarta January 12

Event

Multiple Islamist groups, including the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI), have scheduled an anti-Facebook protest march in Jakarta on Friday, January 12. The march will begin shortly after midday prayers at the Al-Azhar Mosque and will proceed to Facebook Indonesia headquarters. Organizers expect approximately 1000 people to attend. Local authorities plan to deploy additional security personnel in the area and anticipate significant transportation disruptions in the vicinity of the march. While the march is intended to be peaceful, violent clashes between protesters and security personnel cannot be ruled out.

Context

Facebook has blocked scores of accounts and posts related to Islamist organizations in Indonesia that allegedly called for violence and social unrest.

Advice

Individuals in Jakarta are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the threat of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Furthermore, individuals should anticipate an increased security presence and transportation disruptions in the vicinity of the protest.

More generally, due to the heightened threat of terrorism in Indonesia, remain vigilant when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted (public transportation, train stations, ports, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.).