Indonesia: Trade unions to hold city-level protests from Oct. 10

Event

Workers from the Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPI) plan to begin indefinite protests in cities across Indonesia beginning Oct. 10. The actions aim to demand a minimum wage hike and rollback of the job creation law that workers claim unfairly benefit foreign investors. While specific details of demonstrations are unclear, gatherings typically occur at or near public squares, government offices, monuments, and along major thoroughfares. A few thousand people will likely join gatherings in Jakarta, while several hundred participants are probable in other prominent cities such as Makassar, Medan, Pasuruan, Semarang, and Surabaya. Union leaders have announced that demonstrations will continue until the Indonesian general election in 2024.

Heightened security is certain around well-attended gatherings in urban centers. Police may impose traffic restrictions, including security cordons, diversions, and road closures near key government buildings. Isolated clashes may occur, especially if police attempt to forcibly disperse gatherings or activists attempt to breach security cordons. Localized transport disruptions are likely near gathering venues in cities as activists typically march on or block roadways. Rerouting and/or curtailment of public bus services cannot be ruled out. Increased congestion and demand for public transport may occur as a large number of attendees arrive and leave popular demonstration venues.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to possible clashes. In the event of violence, leave the area immediately. Allow additional time for travel and use alternative routes to circumvent gathering sites. Monitor trusted local media for updates on protest details, as organizers may not announce them in advance. Heed all local security and traffic advisories.