20 Oct 2020 | 04:07 AM UTC
Indonesia: Nationwide demonstrations over labor law scheduled October 20 /update 4
Demonstrations expected to take place in Jakarta and other locations on October 20 to denounce Omnibus labor law; avoid large gatherings as a precaution
Event
Demonstrations are expected to take place in several locations nationwide on Tuesday, October 20, as part of ongoing protests against the Omnibus Law. Thousands are expected to gather in Jakarta, Surabaya (East Java), and Bekasi (West Java), among other locations. Reports indicate that thousands of security personnel have been deployed to oversee demonstrations in Surabaya and protect key sites.
The Jakarta Labor Movement (GBJ) announced that it intended to hold a week-long demonstration against the Omnibus Law on Job Creation from Thursday, October 15 to Thursday, October 22. The demonstration is to center around the Merdeka presidential palace, central Jakarta, and take place daily between 08:00 and 16:00 (local time). Police have stated that they may close off areas close to the palace to traffic should protests grow.
A heightened security presence and associated disruptions to transportation and business are to be expected in the vicinity of protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
The Omnibus bill was passed into law on October 5, and opponents believe the bill will undermine labor rights in Indonesia and weaken environmental protections in favor of big business.
Advice
Those in Indonesia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid demonstrations and political gatherings, and heed any instructions issued by local authorities
