Indonesia: Social media restrictions lifted May 25 /update 9

Event

Indonesia lifted restrictions on social media on the afternoon (local time) of Saturday, May 25. Access to popular messaging and social media platforms, including Facebook, Whatsapp, and Instagram, was restricted for several days following election-related violence and protests in Jakarta and other cities on Tuesday, May 21. Further telecommunication limitations are not expected in the near term, though new restrictions are possible if protests resume.

Context

Indonesia imposed an ad hoc ban on social media and messaging platforms beginning Wednesday, May 22, following deadly protests in Jakarta and other cities the previous day. Supporters of presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto gathered to protest the announcement of official elections results and clashed with security forces, resulting in eight deaths, around 300 people wounded, and the arrest of around 250 others. The General Election Commission (KPU) confirmed the victory of incumbent President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo with approximately 55.5 percent of the vote to Prabowo's 44.5 percent. Prabowo has not conceded the election and has vowed to contest the election in court.

Prabowo previously ran for president against Jokowi in 2014 and as a vice presidential candidate in 2009.

Advice

Individuals in Indonesia, particularly Jakarta, are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate heightened security measures and associated transportation disruptions, maintain redundant modes of communication, avoid all protests and public demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and refrain from discussing political subjects in public or on social media.