06 Apr 2021 | 08:27 AM UTC
Indonesia: Labor protests to occur in multiple cities nationwide April 12
Workers to rally in multiple cities in Indonesia, April 12. Tight security likely during any action.
Event
Workers plan to demonstrate in multiple cities across Indonesia, including Jakarta, April 12. The protests are to demand the government repeal amendments to labor laws and ensure that companies provide employees with Eid al-Fitr holiday allowances (Tunjangan Hari Raya) in one payment instead of several installments. The largest gathering will likely occur outside the Constitutional Court in Jakarta. Smaller demonstrations will probably take place in other cities nationwide, like Bandung, Batam, Makassar, Serang, Semarang, and Surabaya; likely venues include government buildings, such as provincial, regency, or city councils, governors' offices, as well as monuments, public squares, and other popular gathering sites. Dozens to hundreds of people will likely participate in each action, especially in the urban areas.
Labor unions may also call for strikes, which could cause production disruptions in affected areas. Workers could demonstrate near factories and industrial zones and block access to sites during the labor action. Short-term delivery and order fulfillment delays are possible.
Authorities will likely bolster security at any gathering location April 12; roadblocks or security cordons are possible. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely during any demonstrations. Violence may occur during gatherings if police forcibly disperse protesters or demonstrators attempt to breach security barriers. Mass arrests may occur if security forces deem any protesters to violate COVID-19 restrictions.
Advice
Avoid any demonstrations April 12 as a precaution. Limit exposure to government offices that may become targets for protests. Seek updated information from local contacts on any gathering plans and related disruptions; organizers may not announce details in advance. Plan for road closures and business disruptions near any demonstrations and seek alternative routes to circumvent affected areas. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a nongovernmental building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
