Indonesia: Protests over domestic worker laws planned in major urban centers Sept. 17

Activists will hold protests in 20 cities across Indonesia Sept. 17 to demand the passing of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill (PPRT). Small daily protests have occurred outside the House of Representatives building in Jakarta since early September. Further rallies will occur in Ambon, Balikpapan, Bangka Belitung, Bulungan, Cirebon, Madura, Malang, Manado, Palu, Samarinda, Serang, Solo, and Surabaya, among others. Up to a few hundred participants may join each event, with the highest attendance likely in Jakarta.

Although organizers have not announced specific rally sites, gatherings are most probable outside government buildings such as Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) offices. Authorities will likely enact heightened security measures, including setting up roadblocks and deploying additional personnel, near any protests and may try to disperse large gatherings if they are especially disruptive. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible, particularly if activists occupy or march on nearby roads. Minor clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.