Indonesia: Workers plan to demonstrate in multiple cities nationwide May 1 to mark Labor Day

Event

Workers' unions, including the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (KSPI), plan to demonstrate in multiple cities across Indonesia May 1 to mark Labor Day. The protesters will likely also demand the authorities repeal recent changes to labor regulations, as workers claim that the amendments are worsening working conditions. KSPI claims its members would demonstrate in Jakarta and 23 other provinces. Possible protest sites in the capital include the Constitutional Court, the State Palace, the House of Representatives, the City Hall, the National Monument, and the Hotel Indonesia roundabout. Gatherings will probably also occur in cities such as Bandung, Batam, Makassar, Serang, Semarang, and Surabaya; likely venues include government buildings, such as provincial, regency, or city councils, governors' and manpower ministry 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 May 1; 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 May 1 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.