Workers plan protests nationwide November 18-20

Event

Several labor organizations across Indonesia plan to hold various demonstrations in different parts of the country between Wednesday, November 18, and Friday, November 20. The protests are being held to demand an increase in the minimum wage and to denounce recent amendments to national labor laws. Organizers of some of the events have stated that they expect thousands to participate in the demonstrations. The following protests are planned:

• In West Java province protesters will gather outside the Sukabumi Regency Hall between November 18 and November 20.
• In Banten province unionized workers plan to rally at Banten Provincial Government Area in Serang on November 18. A related strike by workers is being held through Thursday, November 19.
• In East Java province participants plan to gather at multiple sites in Surabaya on November 19. Demonstrators intend to march from Margomulyo Industrial Estate, Surabaya Zoo, and Waru roundabout from 12:00 (local time) before congregating at the East Java governor's office at 14:00.

Further rallies are likely at government buildings and other sites across Indonesia in the coming days. The rallies are likely to be accompanied by a heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transport.

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. Labor organizations have held protests across the country over recent months in protest against the bill.

Advice

Those in Indonesia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and heed any instructions issued by local authorities.