Indonesia: Ride-hailing drivers to rally outside the East Java governor's office in Surabaya, April 6

Event

Multiple app-based ride-hailing drivers' unions plan to demonstrate outside the East Java governor's office in Surabaya, April 6. The action is to demand the local government to provide additional financial assistance to the drivers amid economic difficulties related to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions. The start time of the action is unclear. The protesters may also rally outside other government buildings, such as the Surabaya mayor's office. Thousands of ride-hailing drivers participated in past demonstrations in Surabaya over alleged poor working conditions, and similar numbers may take part in the April 6 gathering.

Authorities will likely bolster security, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons, at the East Java governor's office or any other protest site April 6. Localized road closures and business disruptions are likely, especially if the workers occupy nearby roads, such as Jalan Pahlawan and Jalan Tembaan. Clashes and mass arrests are possible if authorities forcibly disperse the protesters or consider any demonstrator to be in breach of COVID-19 protocols.

Advice

Avoid the East Java governor's office April 6 and any other protest location as a precaution. Plan for road closures and business disruptions around any protest site and seek alternative routes to circumvent the location. If violence erupts nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a non-government building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.