Indonesia: Labor group calls for protests in cities nationwide Aug. 10 to oppose job legislation

Event

The labor group Alliance for A Million Workers' Action has called for demonstrations in cities nationwide Aug. 10 to oppose the Omnibus Law on Job Creation. Workers claim that the regulations have not improved working conditions and that the government has ignored demands for consultation. Likely protest sites include the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta. Additional rallies are probable in other major cities like Ambon, Banjarmasin, Bandung, Batam, Makassar, Medan, Serang, Surabaya, and Ternate; likely action sites include government buildings like governor offices and provincial, regency, or city councils, as well as prominent roadways and monuments. Participation will likely be high, with dozens to hundreds of people in each demonstration, despite the prominent group Confederation of All Indonesian Workers Union's (KSPSI) leaders discouraging its member from attending the Aug. 10 gatherings due to the actions' alleged negative impact. The largest turnouts are likely in Jakarta and other major cities.

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 probably increase security near protest sites, especially in Jakarta, Aug. 10. Localized traffic and business disruptions are likely, particularly if workers occupy roads. Clashes may occur, especially if authorities forcibly disperse demonstrators; the use of tear gas and water cannons is possible. Mass arrests may also occur if protesters ignore orders to disperse.

Advice

Avoid any protests Aug. 10 due to possible clashes. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernmental building. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions nearby rally locations, as well as possible strikes and shipping delays. Allow additional time to reach destinations near demonstration sites. Heed all official security and transport advisories.