Indonesia: Labor group to demonstrate nationwide as of Feb. 22 over changes to the retirement benefits scheme

Event

Several labor groups, including the Association of Indonesian Trade Unions (ASPEK) and the Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPI), are staging rallies nationwide as of Feb. 22. The purpose of the action is to denounce recent amendments to the retirement benefits system, as protesters claim that the changes will make it more difficult for workers to obtain payouts. KASBI will hold a demonstration outside the manpower ministry in Jakarta Feb. 23. Likely protest sites in Jakarta include the manpower ministry, the Social Security Administrator for Health Indonesia (BPJS) headquarters, and other government buildings. Workers will also likely demonstrate outside the manpower ministry branches and BPJS headquarters in other cities, such as Bandung, Banjarmasin, Batam, Makassar, Medan, Semarang, Serang, and Surabaya. Dozens to hundreds of people will likely participate in each action.

Authorities will probably bolster security at any rally sites, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely, especially if demonstrators occupy roads near the gathering locations. Clashes could occur if police forcibly disperse workers, or if the demonstrators attempt to break through security barriers. Mass arrests are possible if officials consider any protesters to violate COVID-19 restrictions.

Advice

Avoid any demonstrations as a precaution. Plan for road closures and business disruptions near rallies and seek alternative routes to circumvent affected areas. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the location and seek shelter in a safe, non-government building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.