Indonesia: Rally to occur outside Constitutional Court in Jakarta Dec. 16

Event

Multiple workers' organizations plan to demonstrate outside the Constitutional Court in Jakarta from 1000 Dec. 16 to oppose labor law amendments. The action will occur when the court meets to deliberate on a constitutional challenge against the law; labor groups claim that the regulations will worsen working conditions. Organizers claim hundreds of workers will participate in the action. Other groups may stage additional protests at the site Dec. 16.

Authorities will almost certainly increase security, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons, at the Constitutional Court and its surrounding area. The building is located near other key sites such as the Merdeka Palace and the City Hall. Road closures are possible. Localized traffic and business disruptions are likely during the gathering, especially if demonstrators occupy nearby streets, such as Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat and Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara. Clashes are possible if authorities forcibly disperse the demonstrators. Mass arrests may occur if security forces consider any protester to violate coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions.

Advice

Avoid the Constitutional Court in Jakarta Dec. 16 due to possible clashes. Plan for localized traffic and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.